Recommended Supplier Directory:
Our free supplier directory contains details of suppliers recommended by other schools

Helpdesk Service:
Our Helpdesk is available from 8.00am to 6.00pm, and we pride ourselves on being able to help with any question you can throw at us!

Monthly Management Reporting:
A monthly on-site visit providing you with detailed, accurate information tailored to your needs

Termly/Quarterly Financial Reporting:
A termly on-site visit producing accurate financial reporting

Budget Planning:
Assistance in building your budget plan in line with your SDP, with particular emphasis on costing of your staffing structure

Salary Monitoring and Reconciliation:
On average schools spend between 75% and 80% of their school funding on staffing costs - we assist you in planning monitoring this spend

Bursary & Administration Support:
A service is for schools that may have vacancies in their Business/Finance functions, or for schools wishing to use this service instead of employing their own Finance staff

Business Continuity Service:
As part of Business Continuity Planning, both academies and maintained schools are required to have arrangements in place to ensure continuity in the event of absence of key financial staff. SMS can provide that back-up service

Recruitment of Business and Finance staff:
We are able to support schools to recruit staff for vacancies in business management/finance functions, including the provision and administration of finance-related tasks

SFVS Support:
Provision of an independent check for governors and senior leaders that procedures and policies are in place

School Fund Audit: 
SMS can provide an independent check of School Fund/Private accounts. We can also assist with the preparation of year-end accounts where required

Academy Conversion: 
We have successfully supported the conversion of over 50 schools to Academy status. Let us help you!

Academy Assurance - Responsible Officer: 
The service consists of an on-site visit usually on a termly basis during which an academy's financial procedures and internal control systems are reviewed

Financial Management and Governance Self-Assessment (FMGS):
All new academies are required to complete a FMGS return within 4 months of opening - we can support you with this

Ad Hoc Services:
SMS can provide a number of other tailored services, including web site and policy reviews, bid writing, tender administration, training, governance support & clerking services