Changing from LEA to a MAT. Is it bad?

[MATQs]

Hi. Looking likely we’ll end up joining a MAT. I wondered what your experiences are, especially as experienced teachers? Has it worked out ok? Have staff been kept etc? Any worrying changes? I have no idea what to expect and am a bit nervous. Thank you!

I'm afraid for me in a primary it was pretty shit. We didn't even need to go academy, it was just to further the head's career. He then left and we were stuck. I'm sure there are many much nicer academy chains though. I am back in an LA school now.

My school just did this effective from mid-Summer term. Still very early days but so far:

-No-one has left, all still have our jobs
-Continuous service has been protected by TUPE

• Head has assured us they're not planning on leaving
• Visits from the MAT CEo and high level staff etc every 2 or 3 weeks
• Weekly (!!!) learning walks and mini observations (!!!) by SLT.
• Staff encouraged to reach out to schools within the MAT for support/sharing resources etc.

It think it depends on the MAT. We’re in a small MAT and honestly, it’s not really any different. If you’re joining one of the large chains, I gather it will be a different kettle of fish I’m afraid. Why are you joining a MAT?