Values-led governance and parental and community engagement in the Co-operative Academies Trust: an alternative in the neoliberal context of education?

HETHERINGTON, Janet E and FORRESTER, Gillian (2021) Values-led governance and parental and community engagement in the Co-operative Academies Trust: an alternative in the neoliberal context of education? Management in Education, 36 (1). ISSN 1741-9883

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Abstract or description

This article examines the nature of governance in the Co-operative Academies Trust which comprises academy schools in England sponsored by The Co-operative Group. The historical and political context for the study is summarised, the research methodology is explained, and data are drawn upon from one case study academy. Structural, organisational, and operational deviations of the Co-operative Academies Trust are outlined. The findings illustrate a values-led, branding message and strategic identity, and the placement of senior Co-operative Group employees in the Local Governing Body to ensure the strategic direction is focused upon co-operative values and community. Operationally, the engagement with stakeholders privileges a rational-goal approach, but signs of cultural shift are occurring concurrently with parent forum members demanding deliberation and voice in decision-making.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Co-operative Academies Trust, governance, values, deliberation, democratic decision-making, parental voice
Faculty:	School of Life Sciences and Education > Education
Depositing User:	Gillian FORRESTER
Date Deposited:	01 Nov 2021 15:51
Last Modified:	24 Feb 2023 14:02
URI:	https://eprints.staffs.ac.uk/id/eprint/7025

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