A spokesman from the Area-Based Education Partnerships Associated (AEPA) said:
"We support the ambitions set out in the government's Schools White Paper, especially the emphasis on place-based collaboration between schools, local authorities and local partners.
"Our members welcome that the White Paper's use of the term 'trust' does not refer solely to multi-academy trusts and is a broader term that includes area-based partnerships and other forms of school groupings that foster collaboration, shared expertise and collective responsibility for standards.
"We are reassured that there will be no forced academisation and that schools will continue to have the freedom to operate in local collaboratives, as maintained schools or to join a trust.
"This flexibility is key to ensuring that decisions about governance and partnership are made with the needs of children and local communities at their heart
"From our extensive experience of bringing together diverse school communities, we know there is real strength in collaboration and that this can take many forms.
"Whatever 'family' our schools choose to be part of - whether a trust, a local partnership, or as maintained schools working closely with others - we remain committed to partnerships that deliver excellence, equity and opportunity for every child.
"As discussions continue, the AEPA will work closely with schools and partners to ensure they are informed, supported and able to make decisions with confidence, translating national policy into practical, locally-informed action that benefits children and young people. "