Internal Scrutiny Audits & Training

CORE SUPPORT AREA

This service is designed to work in partnership with the School Business Manager, Local Authority Bursar Team, and senior leaders, ensuring full alignment with the ISBL Professional Standards and ISBL Operational Excellence Framework.

Finance system review – our finance system reviews are delivered independently, we assess system architecture and security, providing a full evaluation of key areas to help improve the effectiveness of your software

Audits – we work independently with your school to provide comprehensive assurance that internal controls and risk management procedures are operating effectively and efficiently

Internal Scrutiny Audits & Training

School Fund Audits – for Maintained Schools we offer a one off price for an independent audit of the private school fund

Training – we run comprehensive and bespoke training on any topic within education finance or based on your school/Trust needs and priorities.

Finance Helpdesk

You have a question – we have the answer. Benefit from unlimited support with all your finance, accounting, and technical queries – open 8 am – 8 pm, 7 days a week.

Our expert helpdesk team will act as an extension to your finance division, supporting a variety of queries, from accounting and procurement to finance software.

Our qualifications and partnerships

Led by a fully qualified finance professional, with over 15 years’ experience in school finances, and accredited to ISBL lead level practitioner status, our team can provide consultancy, training, procurement/account management and unlimited support on the leading education finance and budgeting software tools. We are highly trained, have in-depth knowledge and have strong working relationships, including with: IRIS Financials IMP Software Civica Access Education Our services are aligned with ISBL Professional Standards, which set out the competencies and behaviours expected from professionals delivering these services, and the ISBL Operational Excellence Framework, which defines best practice in operational delivery. We also work to an agreed set of Key Performance Indicators, which are reviewed regularly, including, for example, the timeliness of reporting, financial accuracy, and compliance audit outcomes.

Our Flexible Delivery Options

Customised support packages for annual or multi-year strategies On-site or remote support (project-based or retained) Termly strategic reviews and planning session Central team capacity-and capability building and mentoring Interim short and long term vacancy cover Training for Governors, the senior leadership team, school business managers and other staff

Transparent Pricing

Services will be provided on an agreed day rate basis. Any exceptional costs incurred in the course of service delivery, additional resources, must be agreed in advance and will be charged separately. Reasonable travel expenses, including mileage, accommodation, and subsistence, will be reimbursed in line with the Trust’s expenses policy or as agreed in writing. Clients have the option to purchase onsite and offsite (remote) visits. This is based on the client's requirements and scheduled work. Offsite visits will help clients save money and improve efficiency by, for example, reducing travel time. A daily rate £400 per day for any work undertaken. Remote Maintained School Fund Audits will be charged at £150 for all work undertaken per day required. Discounts are available for time booked in advance for multiple days. £375 for multiple days 1 week in advance £350 for multiple days 1 month in advance £325 for multiple days 2 months in advance £300 for multiple days 3 months in advance

Can you provide refernces?

References can be provided on request. For a free initial consultation and to explore a package tailored to your school’s needs, please contact: Ryan Powner FMAAT AATQB Strategic School Business Leadership Consultant t: 07889022807 e: enquiries@puzzleeducation.co.uk

01642 049016

01642 049016

Internal Scrutiny Audits & Training

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