The accompanying template should be used as a guide вЂ“ not a prescriptive document. relative formality that partners prefer.The content of each MOU is entirely up to the parties involved.The language and level of detail used will also depend on the: It has moral force, but does not create legal obligations. It is a statement of serious intent вЂ“ agreed voluntarily by equal partners вЂ“ of the commitment, resources, and other considerations that each of the parties will bring. It is important to keep 2 important points in mind: A MOU is not a legally binding document These concerns should not overshadow the benefits of formalising a partnership.

It is common for schools to be put off by the formal nature, and at times, the detail of a MOU. On evaluation, it provides an opportunity to build impact evaluation into the partnership from the outset and setting out clearly the achievements it hopes to realise.

an opportunity to build a shared responsibility for delivery, ensuring that workload does not fall on a small number of individuals.

an opportunity to safeguard the partnership by ensuring orderly transitions through staff changes.

a tool for integrating the partnership into the strategy and ethos of the school.

a document that can be shared with school leaders, parents and other school community stakeholders to give clarity about what the partnership involves, and how their school is benefiting from and contributing to the partnership.

the opportunity for governing boards to scrutinise and sign off on a tangible body of work вЂ“ this can be helpful for gaining governor support and sustaining this through any changes to the personnel of the governing bodies.

clarity for all partners about what each is putting in, what each is getting out and the timeframe for doing so.

On accountability and governance, it provides: There are several benefits to formalising a partnership through an MOU. One way of doing this is through agreeing a memorandum of understanding ( MOU) to ensure that the promised outcomes of the partnership: Evidence suggests that partnerships that enter into a formal agreement tend to be better formed and more sustainable. We strongly encourage partner schools to formalise their arrangements in order to clarify the activities and benefits for all involved. We want to see this good practice adopted more widely and raise the ambition for what can be achieved. We know that many institutions are already involved in partnerships to support these objectives, and are working closely with other schools. We encourage a range of activities within these partnerships around our 4 priority areas вЂ“ teaching, curriculum, leadership, and school improvement вЂ“ to deliver high impact outcomes for the benefit of pupils.

are mutually beneficial to all partners.

We want to harness the resources and expertise of independent schools, universities and selective schools to form partnerships with state schools that:

Mou agreement meaning