Onboarding New Schools
Onboarding New Schools
At Help For Schoools, we specialise in providing tailored consultancy services to schools and trusts navigating the complexities of academy conversions, transfers, and strategic integration. With a focus on informed decision-making, risk mitigation, and regulatory compliance, our expert team partners with you to ensure a seamless transition, unlocking long-term benefits for students, staff, and stakeholders.
Whether you’re a school exploring a new trust partnership or a trust evaluating an incoming school, we deliver the insights and support you need to succeed.
Our Consultancy Services
1. Strategic Due Diligence Consultancy
Gain clarity and confidence with a comprehensive review of your potential conversion or transfer.
- Strategic assessments tailored to your needs.
- Stakeholder workshops to align on goals and risk mitigation.
- Integration guidance for legal and operational frameworks.
2. Financial Analysis and Risk Assessment
Make informed decisions with a deep dive into financial health, risks, and long-term sustainability.
- Detailed financial health analysis and benchmarking.
- Pension liability evaluations with expert consultation.
- Comprehensive budget forecasting and sensitivity reviews.
3. Educational Performance Evaluation
Ensure educational excellence by understanding and enhancing performance trends.
- In-depth analysis of Ofsted reports and outcomes.
- Curriculum design and staffing efficiency recommendations.
- Strategies for sustained school improvement.
4. Governance and Leadership Audit
Strengthen leadership and governance to ensure a robust foundation for growth.
- Governance skills audits and improvement plans.
- Review of leadership structures and decision-making processes.
- Tailored recommendations for governance optimization.
5. Legal and Contractual Advisory
Navigate legal complexities with expert guidance on contracts, TUPE compliance, and CTAs.
- Customized Commercial Transfer Agreements (CTAs).
- TUPE compliance consultations.
- Review of contracts, leases, and potential liabilities.
6. Infrastructure and Building Condition Surveying
Understand the state of your school’s infrastructure to plan for a safe and efficient future.
- Comprehensive building condition surveys and recommendations.
- Health and safety compliance audits.
- Energy consumption analysis and cost-saving strategies.
7. HR and Staffing Analysis
Optimize your staffing structure and address key HR challenges with data-driven insights.
- HR audits covering contracts, absenteeism, and policies.
- Staffing efficiency analysis and resource deployment strategies.
- Customised solutions for staffing challenges.
8. Stakeholder Communication and Integration Planning
Ensure a smooth transition with effective communication and integration planning.
- Stakeholder engagement and cultural alignment workshops.
- Post-transfer integration frameworks for operational success.
- Customised plans to support collaboration and unity.
9. Comprehensive Risk Mitigation Consultancy
Identify, evaluate, and address risks with actionable, costed solutions.
- Detailed risk and mitigation analysis.
- Scenario planning and contingency strategies.
- Resource allocation for identified challenges.
10. Regulatory Compliance and Guidance
Stay ahead of compliance requirements with expert support on educational and premises standards.
- Full compliance audits and tailored action plans.
- Guidance on health, safety, and school estate management.
- Support with regulatory frameworks and documentation.
Why Choose Us?
We bring unparalleled expertise, a commitment to excellence, and a collaborative approach to every project. Let us help you build a future-ready school or trust that thrives in today’s educational landscape.
Contact us today to discuss how we can support your academy conversion or transfer journey!
Next Steps
If you are interested in learning more about our MAT Central Services Reviews, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to assisting the Trust in achieving its goals and enhancing its operational effectiveness.
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Central Services Review
Trust Central Services Review
Scope and Objectives
The review will evaluate the Trust’s central business support services, encompassing roles, responsibilities, policies, procedures, and systems. The objective is to ensure these services operate effectively, efficiently, and cost-effectively while complying with statutory, financial, and academy trust requirements.
Key areas of focus include:
- Internal vs. External Capabilities: Analysing the balance between internal capacity and externally sourced services.
- Central and School-Level Alignment: Reviewing the division of responsibilities and resources.
- Structural Review: Assessing job descriptions, roles, responsibilities, and associated costs.
- Benchmarking Analysis: Comparing administrative hours and costs with other trusts and schools, where data is available.
- Leadership Feedback: Conducting a survey of Trust leadership to gauge the perceived effectiveness of current operations.
- Governance Reporting Review: Evaluating the quality and utility of reports provided to Directors and Local Governors.
The outcome will be a comprehensive report, highlighting strengths, areas for improvement, and actionable recommendations for the CEO and Board of Directors.
Key Deliverables
We will provide:
- A draft report and a final report summarizing the findings and recommendations.
- A formal presentation to the CEO and Trust Board.
Comprehensive Review Framework
1. Organisational Effectiveness Review
- Assess the Trust Central Services Team’s readiness to meet current and future demands through an objective, best-practice-driven analysis.
- Recommend a cost-effective, efficient organisational structure that enhances customer service, adds value, and supports future growth.
- Evaluate alignment between the current structure and the Trust’s goals, identifying opportunities to improve performance and effectiveness.
- Develop performance measures based on best practices, considering their cost-effectiveness, data requirements, and implementation strategies.
- Propose actionable recommendations for performance improvement and outline steps for implementation.
2. Functional Analysis
Each core function (Governance, Finance, Administration, HR/Payroll, Health & Safety, Estates, IT) will be reviewed to assess:
- Goals, objectives, and performance tracking measures.
- Staffing levels, including core competencies, management structures, and resource allocation.
- The balance between:
- Internal vs. external service provision.
- Individual school-level vs. central trust functions.
- Effectiveness in achieving objectives over the past academic year.
- Reporting structures and performance measures, with recommendations for improvement or new measures aligned with best practices.
3. Programme-Specific Evaluations
Procurement Policies and Procedures
- Review procurement processes to ensure alignment with the Academy Trust Handbook (AFH) and Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) best practices.
- Provide recommendations for enhancing procurement efficiency and compliance.
Next Steps
If you are interested in learning more about our MAT Central Services Reviews, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to assisting the Trust in achieving its goals and enhancing its operational effectiveness.
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Good Estate Management for Schools (GEMS) Support
Good Estate Management for Schools (GEMS) Support
At Help for Schools, we are passionate about supporting schools in managing their estates efficiently, ensuring that every student and staff member benefits from a safe, inspiring, and well-maintained learning environment. Our Good Estate Management for Schools (GEMS) consultancy service offers expert guidance and tailored solutions to help schools of all sizes manage their buildings and grounds effectively.
Why Estate Management Matters
A well-managed school estate is essential for:
- Ensuring safety and compliance with statutory regulations.
- Creating an environment conducive to learning and teaching.
- Reducing operational costs and improving energy efficiency.
- Planning for future growth and sustainability.
Our GEMS consultancy focuses on helping schools achieve these goals through practical, actionable advice and ongoing support.
Our Services Include:
- Estate Strategy Development We work with you to create a strategic, long-term vision for your school estate, aligned with your educational goals and financial resources. Our experts will assess your current facilities, identify potential improvements, and create a roadmap for growth and sustainability.
- Compliance and Risk Management Keeping your school compliant with health, safety, and building regulations is a critical aspect of estate management. We provide detailed audits and help implement systems to monitor and manage compliance with fire safety, asbestos, legionella, and more.
- Space Utilisation and Optimisation Efficient use of space can significantly impact the quality of education and the school’s budget. We assess how your facilities are currently used and recommend ways to optimize learning spaces, recreational areas, and administrative offices to make the most out of your estate.
- Maintenance Planning Proactive maintenance reduces the risk of unexpected repairs and minimizes disruption to school life. We help develop comprehensive, cost-effective maintenance schedules to ensure that your facilities remain in top condition throughout the year.
- Energy Efficiency and Sustainability In the age of sustainability, reducing energy consumption and implementing green practices is essential for both the environment and the school budget. Our consultants provide expert advice on energy-efficient solutions, waste reduction, and sustainable building practices that align with your school’s ethos.
- Capital Project Management Whether you’re expanding your facilities, renovating existing buildings, or undertaking large-scale repairs, we guide you through the entire project lifecycle—from planning and budgeting to contractor management and completion—ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.
How We Work
Our GEMS consultancy service is flexible and tailored to meet the unique needs of each school. Whether you require a one-off assessment or ongoing support, our consultants are here to help. We start by understanding your school’s specific challenges and objectives, then work collaboratively with your leadership team to create a customized estate management plan.
Why Choose Help for Schools?
- Expertise: Our team of consultants brings years of experience in school estate management, with a deep understanding of both regulatory requirements and the specific needs of educational environments.
- Tailored Solutions: We recognize that every school is different. Our approach is always personalized to fit your school’s size, budget, and goals.
- Sustainability Focus: We are committed to helping schools implement eco-friendly practices that reduce their carbon footprint and create long-term savings.
Get in Touch
Ready to improve your school’s estate management? Contact us today to learn more about how our Good Estate Management for Schools (GEMS) consultancy can benefit your school. Whether you’re looking for strategic advice, compliance audits, or project management support, we’re here to help.
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PFI Expiry
PFI Expiry
Understanding PFI Expiry: What You Need to Know
Introduction to PFI
The Private Finance Initiative (PFI) has been a cornerstone of public-private partnerships in infrastructure projects for decades. Under PFI, private sector companies finance, build, and manage public infrastructure projects, with the government paying for the service over a long-term contract period.
What is PFI Expiry?
PFI contracts typically have a fixed term, often spanning several decades, during which the private sector partner operates and maintains the infrastructure. PFI expiry refers to the end of this contract period, marking a significant milestone in the lifecycle of the project.
Implications of Expiry
Transition of Ownership: At expiry, ownership of the infrastructure usually transfers to the public sector, providing an opportunity for reassessment and restructuring of operational arrangements.
Financial Considerations: The end of a PFI contract can have financial implications for both the public and private sectors. It may involve renegotiating terms, settling outstanding payments, or exploring alternative financing models for maintenance and operation.
Service Continuity: Ensuring uninterrupted service provision is crucial during the transition phase. Plans for maintaining service levels and asset integrity should be established well in advance.
Opportunities for Improvement
PFI expiry offers a chance to reflect on the successes and challenges of the partnership. It provides an opportunity to incorporate lessons learned into future projects and to explore more efficient and transparent models of infrastructure procurement and management
As long-term PFI contracts draw to an end and assets are transferred back to public sector control, a review of the service delivery strategy must be conducted. Fortunately, Help for Schools has a wealth of expertise with which they can guide this process; specifically regarding:
- Reviewing contract documentation
- Identifying hand back criteria
- Procuring and carrying out condition surveys
- Carrying out a strategic estate strategy
- Providing facilities options analyses for use of assets post-expiry e.g. retain, lease to a third party, dispose
- Providing asset valuations
- Advising on asset disposals/redevelopment
- Carrying out options appraisals for delivery of support services post-expiry
- Procurement of support services post-expiry
- Government Guidelines and Reports:
- Industry Publications and Research Papers:
Please do enquire about our services.
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Capital Projects Management
Capital Projects Management
At Help for Schools, we specialise in providing comprehensive services tailored to schools undertaking capital building or refurbishment projects financed through various channels such as Capital Improvement Funding (CIF), School Condition Allocation (SCA), and Dissolved Formula Capital (DFC).
Our wide range of services includes:
Condition Surveys: Thorough assessments are conducted to evaluate the current state of school buildings, guiding subsequent decisions and planning.
Procurement Management: Assisting schools in the procurement process, ensuring the selection of reliable contractors and suppliers who can deliver high-quality outcomes within the allocated budget and timeframe.
Project Management: From inception to completion, our experienced team oversees all aspects of the project, ensuring seamless coordination between stakeholders, adherence to timelines, and compliance with regulatory standards.
Architectural Design and Planning Permission: Providing architectural design services and managing the submission process for planning permission when necessary, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and guidelines.
RIBA Stages 1 to 7: Guiding projects through all stages of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) plan of work, ensuring thorough planning, design development, and execution.
Project Feasibility, Design, and Specification:
Our services are structured to ensure that:
- Projects align with desired outcomes, whether they be aesthetic, functional, or regulatory.
- Spatial requirements are meticulously met, optimising the use of available space and facilities.
- Site and building issues, including potential constraints and safety considerations such as asbestos management, are identified and addressed proactively.
- Stringent adherence to all statutory and legislative processes, guaranteeing compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
- Projects are executed within the confines of the allocated budget, maximising cost-effectiveness and value for our clients.
Schools can trust that their capital projects will be managed with precision, expertise, and a commitment to delivering exceptional results that enhance the learning environment for students and staff.
Please do enquire about our services.
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Procurement Support
Procurement
At Help for Schools, our commitment is to understand the unique needs and requirements of your Trust, enabling us to deliver the most suitable and cost-effective solutions. As an independent entity, we prioritise safeguarding your budget while ensuring the highest standards of service and quality.
Our expertise lies in crafting bespoke tender specifications tailored to address all aspects of your estate requirements. Whether you’re seeking services for cleaning, grounds maintenance, mechanical and electrical maintenance, energy management, utilities, or capital building works, we’re equipped to assist you at every step of the process.
Tailored Tender Specifications: We specialise in creating customised tender specifications that align with your objectives and operational needs. Our detailed approach ensures that every aspect of your estate requirements is carefully considered, resulting in comprehensive and effective tender documents.
End-to-End Procurement Management: We offer full-scale procurement management services from the initial stages of stakeholder engagement to post-mobilisation support. Our dedicated team provides a single point of contact throughout the process, offering seamless communication and support from project inception to contract award and beyond.
We are dedicated to delivering exceptional results that enhance your educational facilities’ efficiency, safety, and overall functionality.
Please do enquire about our services.
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Energy Consultation
Energy Consultation
As specialists in our field, we are constantly analysing the energy markets. There are significant advantages to continuously monitoring wholesale market prices alongside fundamental factors such as energy-related commodity prices. This experience means that we are not only aware of the best and most advantageous times to buy energy contracts but we are also able to match clients with suppliers most appropriate to their needs.
No need to wait until your contract is about to end if it’s advantageous to procure early, we can forward buy your next contract.
As part of our procurement process, before tendering to all selected suppliers, we carry out a detailed discussion to ensure your needs and requirements are fully understood and met. This might include such things as:
- Specific billing requirement: Monthly / Quarterly / Centralised billing
- Co-terminus end dates
- Smart metering
- Reporting
If you would like to find out if you’re getting the best value for money from your energy supplier, come and talk to us. We will work with you to determine your requirements and investigate which suppliers best meet your needs. As part of our service, we follow up and manage any discrepancies or errors in billing. All we require is a signed Letter of Authority (which makes us compliant with the Data Protection Act) and a recent electricity bill. We deal with all the paperwork, manage the contract and ensure that it transfers smoothly on the due dates, leaving you to concentrate on running your business. Interested?
Support
Our total support package ensures that you have a one-stop shop pre and post-contract. What does this mean? As well as handling the tendering and pre-contract negotiations, we will, after go live, support your requirements so that you can call us if you have any issues regarding direct debits, meter reads, billing, changing tenancy, moving premises or any other energy-related matter. In short, you never need to call your energy supplier when you can obtain support from Help for Schools
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Consultancy for School Rebuilding Programme
Consultancy for School Rebuilding Programme
About Our School Rebuilding Programme Commitment
At Help for Schools, we are committed to providing safe, modern, and conducive learning environments for students across our communities. Our School Rebuilding Program aims to revitalise ageing school infrastructure, ensuring that every child has access to high-quality educational facilities.
Strategic Planning
We begin each project with a comprehensive strategic planning phase, assessing the needs of the school community, setting project goals, and establishing key milestones.
Stakeholder Engagement
We believe in the power of collaboration. Our project management approach emphasizes open communication and engagement with all stakeholders, including school administrators, teachers, parents, students, and local authorities.
Transparent Communication
Transparency is at the core of our project management philosophy. We provide regular updates on project progress, timelines, and budget allocations to keep stakeholders informed and involved every step of the way.
Risk Management
Identifying and mitigating risks is essential for project success. Our experienced project managers employ robust risk management strategies to anticipate and address potential challenges proactively.
Quality Assurance
We are committed to delivering high-quality outcomes that meet the needs and expectations of the school community. Rigorous quality assurance processes are integrated into every stage of the project lifecycle to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
Help for Schools can offer the following services to schools that are planning to build new schools, onboarding new schools and expansion: We provide the following:
- Client-side project management dealing with the DfE, DfE Technical Advisors, Principal construction contractors, Architects, Councils and Trust/School stakeholder engagement.
- Associated Planning Consent Agreements: Experience working on projects with Section 106 and Section 278 requirements.
- Procurement of FF&E for loose and fixed via FAL payments
- Designing of Science Laboratories, DT rooms etc
- Guidance and implementation DfE facilities Standards Spec into final designs.
- Guidance on implementation of Good Estate Management for Schools (GEMS)
- Guidance of lifecycle models if required
Please do enquire about our services.
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Facilities Management
Facilities Management
Help for Schools is your trusted partner in delivering comprehensive facilities management solutions tailored to the unique needs of your School, Academy, or Multi-Academy Trust (MAT). Our dedicated team is committed to collaborating closely with you to develop and implement a facilities management (FM) strategy that aligns perfectly with your organization’s objectives and requirements.
Customised FM Solutions: We understand that every educational institution has its own set of challenges and priorities. That’s why we offer personalised FM solutions, ranging from reactive maintenance to meticulously planned preventative programs. Our approach is designed to optimise the functionality and longevity of your facilities while ensuring minimal disruption to daily operations.
Safety, Security, and Compliance: At Brown Consult, we prioritise the safety, security, and well-being of students, staff, and visitors above all else. Our team is well-versed in all statutory and regulatory requirements governing educational facilities, and we go above and beyond to ensure full compliance in all aspects of our work.
Commitment to Quality and Value: We are dedicated to delivering a high-quality service at a competitive price point, ensuring maximum value for your investment. Our experienced team leverages industry best practices and cutting-edge technologies to maintain your facilities to the highest standards. From energy-efficient solutions to cost-effective maintenance strategies.
Experienced Team, Exceptional Service: You can trust that your FM needs are in capable hands. Our team brings a wealth of experience and expertise to every project, delivering prompt, reliable, and professional service at every turn. From routine maintenance tasks to complex facility upgrades, we are committed to exceeding your expectations and ensuring the continued success of your institution.
Get in Touch: Ready to elevate your facilities management strategy? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us to learn more about our comprehensive range of services. Whether you have specific requirements or need assistance in developing a tailored FM solution, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards optimising your institution’s facilities management practices.
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Furniture & Design
Furniture & Design
We specialise in a full range of office and education furniture from some of the leading UK manufacturers.
Clients include top universities, trusts and schools. We supply both traditional and modern styles of furniture with something for every budget. Together with our design team we can work with you to produce a concept that is not only suitable and within budget but provides a working space to wow everyone, we do this by using and working with leading UK manufacturers
When it comes to procuring school furniture, the entire process can be intimidating; after all, it involves investing a great deal of resources out of your school budget. However, rather than simply picking pieces from a catalogue for outfitting a new classroom or updating old chairs and tables, there are better ways. We will listen to your needs and come up with a solution to suit your style and budget. From your initial site survey right through to the installation we will be at your side ensuring your space is completed to the highest standard and one that you can be proud of.
Should you be interested, we would be delighted to offer you a quote and put together layout drawings for your perusal. Rest assured, though, that no pressure will be exerted upon you to make a purchase.
Please do enquire about our services.
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