![\"Paul](\"https:\/\/schoolsweek.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Paul-Tarn-feat.jpg\")
It followed an \u201cin-principle agreement\u201d between the two trusts to join forces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The proposals \u2013 which will take Delta\u2019s tally to 63 schools \u2013 will go before the Department for Education\u2019s Yorkshire and Humber advisory board in two weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But leaders have warned of the risks attached to such a move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One trust chief executive, who asked not to be named, said: \u201cThe advisory board is in a very difficult position because they [the trusts] are so far down the line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIf the board doesn\u2019t think it\u2019s the right match, what happens then?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Steve Hodsman, Delta\u2019s chair, is a co-opted member of the advisory board. He declined to comment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Advisory board members are not decision-makers, but they \u201chelp inform\u201d decisions made by regional directors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
DfE guidance states that the regional director\u2019s \u201coffice maintains a register of all\u2026 conflicts of interest\u201d. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Where one exists, the board member \u201cwill not receive relevant advisory papers\u201d and have to remove themselves from discussions on the project\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They \u201cmust not provide any advice\u201d on the plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n