Following on from the publication of the Academy Trust Handbook 2021 (formerly the Academies Financial Handbook) which became more of a general governance on all areas and not just purely focusing on the finances of the trusts, there are some key points within the handbook which all Academy Trusts should be aware of and complying to.

The academies accounts return (AR) online form is now live for users to complete and submit their trust’s return by the deadline of 23 February 2021.

The recently announced proposed increase in Teachers’ Pensions Scheme (TPS) employer contributions from 1 September 2019, has shocked the academy sector. Treasury indications predict a rise to 23.6% - an increase of over 40%. Most schools were expecting a 2% to 3%.
 

The recently announced proposed increase in Teachers’ Pensions Scheme (TPS) employer contributions from 1 September 2019, has shocked the academy sector. Treasury indications predict a rise to 23.6% - an increase of over 40%. Most schools were expecting a 2% to 3%.
 

The new handbook came into effect on 1 September 2018.  Although similar to the 2017 handbook, certain key items have been headlined at the front of the 2018 handbook as the “top ten musts” for chairs and trustees. These “musts” focus on three core functions of governance:
 

The new handbook came into effect on 1 September 2018.  Although similar to the 2017 handbook, certain key items have been headlined at the front of the 2018 handbook as the “top ten musts” for chairs and trustees. These “musts” focus on three core functions of governance:

The new handbook came into effect on 1 September 2018.  Although similar to the 2017 handbook, certain key items have been headlined at the front of the 2018 handbook as the “top ten musts” for chairs and trustees. These “musts” focus on three core functions of governance:
 

The ESFA has published its Academies Accounts Direction for 2016/17. Although the changes aren’t as significant as last year, there are a number of things to consider. As well as introducing new disclosure requirements, including academy transfers and the apprenticeship levy, and providing guidance on accounting for premises occupied by church academy trusts, the ESFA has taken the opportunity to re-affirm/clarify existing financial administrative and legal requirements.

The ESFA has published its Academies Accounts Direction for 2016/17. Although the changes aren’t as significant as last year, there are a number of things to consider. As well as introducing new disclosure requirements, including academy transfers and the apprenticeship levy, and providing guidance on accounting for premises occupied by church academy trusts, the ESFA has taken the opportunity to re-affirm/clarify existing financial administrative and legal requirements.

"The 2015 Academy Financial Handbook (AFH) is due to be released any day now.  What do I think is likely to be included this year?" writes Andrew Williams, Partner and Head of Education at Moore (South).
 

"The 2015 Academy Financial Handbook (AFH) is due to be released any day now.  What do I think is likely to be included this year?" writes Andrew Williams, Partner and Head of Education at Moore (South).