
Posted on 22nd July 2025
Key Changes in the Academy Trust Handbook 2025/26
The newly released Academy Trust Handbook 2025/26 introduces a wide range of updates that all Trust leaders, CFOs, and Trustees need to be aware of and act on. These changes reflect a greater emphasis on transparency, sustainability, digital safety, governance, and financial integrity.

Posted on 22nd July 2025
School Teachers’ Pay and Conditions 2025 Released
The Department for Education has released the School Teachers’ Pay and Conditions Document 2025, setting out key updates effective from 1 September 2025.

Posted on 17th June 2025
Drapers’ MAT Scales with Confidence: The SBS Financial Planner Effect in Action
One of Drapers’ Multi-Academy Trust's core missions has been to ensure that the financial management of their schools supports their broader educational goals. We spoke to Phil Norman, CFO, about their experience with SBS Financial Planner.

Posted on 17th June 2025
Building Confidence Through Financial Expertise: In conversation with Toral Patel, SBM for 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. After seeking external advice, Moss Hall began working with Nicola, a Finance Consultant at School Business Services.
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Posted on 8th May 2025
Migrating Financial Systems? Why Schools Don’t Have to Do It Alone
Whether your current platform no longer meets your needs, you're joining a new trust with a preferred system, or you're looking for more efficient reporting, switching financial systems is a big step.

Posted on 7th May 2025
What Is ICFP and Why It’s a Game-Changer for MATs
Integrated Curriculum and Financial Planning (ICFP) is transforming the way Multi-Academy Trusts plan, allocate, and optimise their resources. But what exactly is ICFP, and why are so many Trust leaders making it central to their strategy?
Posted on 2nd April 2025
The Rising Costs Facing Schools in April 2025
From increased staff expenses to higher infrastructure and SEND funding demands, school leaders must carefully plan their budgets to maintain financial stability.

Posted on 19th February 2025
The Benefits of Outsourcing Your Finance Team for Schools and MATs
Outsourcing school or MAT finance to SBS reduces costs, ensures compliance, and provides expert support for efficient financial management.

Posted on 12th November 2024
How the UK Budget 2025-26 Will Impact Schools and Education
Discover how the UK Budget 2025-26 impacts schools in England and Wales. Get the full breakdown for school leaders on budget changes and funding allocations.

Posted on 9th October 2024
Top Slice vs GAG Pooling: Which Budgeting Model is Right for Your MAT?
We look at two key budgeting models for Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs). Highlighting the pros and cons of each model and how SBS Financial Planner simplifies managing both, helping MAT leaders make informed, data-driven financial decisions.

Posted on 22nd July 2024
Managing Budget Changes in Light of Decreasing School Enrolments with SBS Financial Planner
According to the latest national projections from an ONS study, the number of pupils in schools in England is expected to decrease significantly in the coming years. This trend is driven by various demographic factors, including lower birth rates and changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Posted on 12th July 2024
Academy Year-End Preparation
Academy Year-End Preparation, a checklist and general advice to school staff