Strengthening Financial Systems at Moss Hall Schools Federation
When Toral Patel joined Moss Hall Schools Federation as School Business Manager, she quickly identified inconsistencies in the school’s financial data following a recent system change. With a deficit budget and figures that didn’t align, it was clear that further support was needed to bring clarity and control back to the process.
“I spoke to a few different providers, but Nicola was highly recommended. And from our first meeting, I knew she was exactly what we needed”. After seeking external advice, Moss Hall began working with Nicola, a Finance Consultant at School Business Services.
What began as short-term Finance Support, has since evolved into a bespoke Financial Consultancy package with SBS for 10 days per year including Service Desk support.
Restoring Financial Clarity and Lightening the Load for Leadership
Working closely with Moss Hall, Nicola conducted a deep audit of the school’s finances.
“There were discrepancies. A lot of them. And there was no way I could have sorted it all on my own. Nicola was incredible. She broke it down into manageable chunks” says Toral.
This practical, ongoing support helped restore confidence in the school’s financial position. With financial confidence restored, Toral can now focus more on the broader responsibilities of her role. “Now, I know the figures we’re submitting are correct. I feel confident again. And that peace of mind is invaluable — especially when you’re juggling everything else in the School Business Manager role.”
What Began as Support, Became Strategy
Although the initial focus was on fixing discrepancies, the partnership between Moss Hall and SBS quickly became more strategic in nature. SBS’s consultancy service adapts to the specific needs of each school. For Moss Hall, this meant building both understanding and capacity. “I have a finance officer too, but having that external third eye has been so helpful. We all make mistakes, and sometimes it’s just about having someone to talk things through with” Toral remarked. “Nicola's knowledge of the system is just so impressive — there’s no question she can’t answer. So it's just having a sounding board and the support… I know that I'm confident we're submitting the correct figures because of her help.”
A Long-Term Investment in Confidence
With SBS’s continued support, including both Consultancy and the Finance Service Desk, Moss Hall has strengthened its use of financial systems and budgeting tools. “We’ve just done our draft budget, and for the first time, I feel sure that it’s right” Toral remarks.
The combination of tailored consultancy and reliable day-to-day advice has proven valuable across the school’s finance function.
A Trusted Partnership
Having regular weekly meetings has also helped Moss Hall feel supported and energised. Looking ahead, Moss Hall plans to continue working closely with SBS to make the most of their finance system and stay on a secure financial footing. “We weren’t using [the system] to its full potential before. Now we are. And we’re in such a better place because of it” says Toral.
Whether you require short-term assistance or long-term support, School Business Service's tailored packages provide the flexibility and expertise you need.
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