Failing schools are more likely to be improved by councils than academy chains, new analysis has revealed.

The Local Government Association (LGA) found that councils managed to turn around 75% of inadequate schools over four years. This compares to 59% of schools converted to a sponsor-led academy.

The LGA said the findings show why councils should be allowed to intervene and turn around struggling schools again. It also calls on the Government to allow councils to create their own multi-academy trusts (MATs) to support schools.

Cllr Roy Perry, vice chairman of the LGA’s Children and Young People Board, said: ‘These findings clearly demonstrate the excellent track record councils have in turning around failing schools and the compelling need for councils to be recognised as effective education improvement partners, ready and able to support schools of all types.

‘Across the country, hundreds of schools, often in disadvantaged areas, are already seeing significant improvements thanks to the intervention of councils to deliver and maintain strong leadership, outstanding classroom teaching and appoint effective support staff and governors.’