Academies & Education

Whether you are converting to academy status, have recently converted or are an established academy or multi-academy trust (MAT), managing financial independence alongside accountability for public funds can be complex.

We work closely with academies and MATs to provide practical support. Our specialist education team understands the regulatory environment you operate in and the pressures faced by trustees, governors and finance teams.

We help you meet your statutory obligations while strengthening financial oversight and long-term planning.

How we support academies and MATs

Our dedicated academies team can assist with:

• Preparation and audit of year-end financial statements in line with the Academies Accounts Direction
• Completion and submission of financial returns required by the Education and Skills Funding Agency
• Budgeting, cashflow forecasting and medium-term financial planning
• Teachers’ Pension Scheme audits and certification
• VAT advice, including registration, partial exemption and reclaiming VAT where applicable
• Corporation Tax matters arising from trading subsidiaries, commercial activities and community use of facilities
• Payroll support, including compliance with sector-specific requirements

Support for growing and converting trusts

For academies at different stages of their journey, we also provide targeted support around change and growth, including:

• Financial due diligence for schools joining an existing MAT
• Advice on the financial implications of academy conversion
• Support with funding agreements and financial controls during transition
• Establishing accounting systems compliant with the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice
• Ongoing advice as your trust expands and governance structures evolve

Governance and financial oversight

Strong governance is central to effective academy and MAT management. We work with trusts to support good financial governance and clear accountability, including:

• Development and review of governance policies and financial procedures
• Advice on the roles and responsibilities of governors, finance committees and audit committees
• Support with internal controls and assurance frameworks

A practical, joined-up approach

We recognise that no two trusts are the same. Our advice is tailored to your size, structure and stage of development, ensuring you receive support that is proportionate, practical and relevant.

If you would like to discuss how Smailes Goldie can support your academy or MAT, please get in touch with our specialist team.