We begin with informal discussions between the school's leadership and governance representatives and the GLT's senior leaders.

These conversations provide an opportunity to explore the school's ambitions, priorities and current challenges, understand the GLT's strategy and operating model, and consider whether there is a suitable basis for working together.

Where there is mutual interest, we will normally arrange school visits and further discussions involving relevant leaders and governors.

The purpose of this stage is to establish a shared understanding of what a potential partnership could achieve, without creating any commitment to proceed.

Where both organisations wish to explore the opportunity further, we will normally develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

This sets out the shared objectives, principles and proposed approach to exploring the partnership. It also establishes arrangements for project leadership, communication, mutual due diligence and decision-making.

The MoU provides a framework for the next stages of work but does not constitute a final agreement to transfer the school.

Both organisations retain responsibility for their own governance and decision-making throughout the process.

We undertake a comprehensive process of mutual due diligence, enabling both organisations to develop a clear understanding of each other's strengths, opportunities, responsibilities and challenges.

The GLT's review of the joining school normally covers educational performance, safeguarding, finance, staffing, governance, estates, IT, contracts and other operational arrangements. We also consider how the school's expertise and existing practices could benefit the wider Trust.

The joining school's review of the GLT provides an opportunity to examine our educational approach, governance, financial sustainability, shared professional services, operating model and capacity to provide effective support. We encourage school leaders and governors to engage directly with our existing schools and Trust leaders to understand what membership would mean in practice.

The findings inform a jointly developed strategic business case, setting out the anticipated educational and organisational benefits, financial implications, key risks and proposed arrangements for joining the GLT.

Mutual due diligence ensures that both organisations can make an informed decision about whether the proposed partnership is right for their students, staff and wider communities.

Where the business case supports proceeding, both organisations undertake the necessary consultation and approval processes.

This includes appropriate engagement with staff, parents, students, governors and other stakeholders, alongside any required statutory consultation and regulatory approvals.

Both organisations also work together to develop a detailed integration plan covering employment arrangements, policies, systems, governance, communications and operational arrangements.

We aim to provide clear information throughout the process, ensuring that stakeholders understand what is proposed, what will remain unchanged and how any changes will be managed.

A final decision to proceed remains subject to the necessary governance and regulatory approvals.

Following the necessary approvals and completion of the relevant legal arrangements, the school formally joins the GLT on an agreed transfer date.

Our priority is to ensure that students and staff experience a smooth transition, with the necessary support, systems and arrangements in place from the first day of Trust membership.

The school's Headteacher and leadership team continue to lead the school, supported by the GLT's Executive Leadership Team and shared professional services.

We provide induction and practical guidance for staff, together with ongoing communication and opportunities to contribute to the development of the wider Trust.

Integration is carefully planned and phased, recognising that some changes may take longer to implement and that schools need appropriate time and support to adapt to new arrangements.

Joining the GLT is the beginning of a long-term partnership rather than the conclusion of a transfer project.

Following integration, we review progress against the original objectives and business case, identify areas requiring further support and seek feedback from school leaders, staff and other stakeholders.

We also consider the learning and expertise that the joining school can share across the Trust, ensuring that collaboration and improvement flow in both directions.

Our focus remains on helping every school thrive as part of the GLT while maintaining its individual identity and commitment to its local community.