The DfE has published the Academy Trust Governance: Structures and Roles. This document has been designed in consultation with the sector to provide a high-level, easily accessible introduction to the different academy trust governance structures, and the roles and responsibilities of each person within those structures.
The descriptors are a quick and accessible reference point for all those involved in academy trust governance. They complement the Governance Handbook, which provides detailed guidance about all facets of school governance, the Academies Financial Handbook, and the Department’s model articles of association.

As well as illustrating how the roles within academy trust governance structures function, the role descriptors emphasise the limited but crucial role members play in safeguarding academy trust governance, and highlight the importance of this role to all those working in academy trust governance.