Governance at The Rivers C.of E. Academy Trust

In response to the changing governance needs of a multi-academy trust, the Rivers C.of E. Academy Trust is launched its innovative and sector-leading governance structure in September 2022. 

The new structure consists of the following advocate roles at local level:  

• Headteacher Advocate – to seek assurance that the head is listened to, supported and challenged

• Pupil Experience Advocate – to seek assurance that pupils are listened to, feel safe in school and are successful learners

• Community Advocate – to seek assurance that the school engages positively with its key stakeholders and local community.

The aim of the new governance structure is to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of the different governance tiers in order to avoid duplication, strengthen communication between governance tiers and maximise the use of the skills, knowledge and expertise of everyone within the governance team. Pupils will remain at the core of all decision-making.

Trustees recognise the importance of the local voice and are committed to ensuring that the local tier contributes to the development of organisational thinking. Two parent/carer representatives as Advocates per school will ensure that the voice of parents/carers contributes to decisions made at trust board level.

Our Advocates are:

• Julia Williams - Headteacher Advocate
• Hanna Hathaway - Pupil Experience Advocate
• Vacancy - Pupil Experience Advocate
• Heather Downes - Community Advocate 

If you wish to contact one of our Advocates, please email the school office via office-uny@riverscofe.co.uk and mark for FAO advocate name and role.

You are able to find out more information about becoming an advocate using the link.

For more information about the Trust governance structure, including information about our Trustees, declarations of business interests, our scheme of delegation and terms of reference, please visit the Trust Governance Page.