Academies and education

Helping academies benefit from new status

Over the years, we have helped several independent schools with their accounting and auditing needs.

Today we act for a number of educational establishments in both the independent and state sectors, helping them with their year-end reporting, and advising on matters such as good governance, internal controls and VAT.

We advise Heads and those responsible for finance within Academies on the management of staff and running of the school. Direct receipt of funding from the government’s Young People’s Learning Agency (YPLA) gives much more autonomy on how the money is spent. And, we help those responsible for finance comply with requirements for application of funds, governance and reporting.

We can provide support through the conversion process by:

• Advising on accounting systems and controls.
• Advising on accounting issues relating to property and leases; employment law, TUPE and pension arrangements; payroll and human resources.
• Reviewing your financial processes and finance manual.
• Advising on good governance.
• Acting as your Responsible Officer.

At the end of your first year, we can perform the external audit function and advise on matters of accounting, such as disclosure requirements, asset valuation and the impact of FRS 17 on your accounts.

We want to become your trusted adviser and as such are well placed to assist with ongoing matters such as:

• Preparing accounts to comply with Academies Handbook, Charities SORP, Charities Act and Companies Act.
• Returns to the YPLA.
• Audits.
• Staff payroll.
• Advice on internal control procedures.
• Governance including responsibilities of governors.
• Helping prepare your Forward Financial Plan 2011-2014.
• Advice on computerised accounting systems; we are Sage accredited agents.
• Expert taxation advice including VAT exemption, PAYE and benefits in kind, use of trading subsidiaries and Gift Aid.