Sectors | Education

Larking Gowen has been advising schools for many years, and in that time has built up a wealth of experience, not just in audit and financial reporting but advising on governance, Public Benefit Test considerations, VAT and on other complex tax issues. We have now also developed a specialist Academy Schools team to provide support to Schools both during and after conversion.

The education sector, both state funded and fee paying, faces many challenges at present. The private sector continues to experience pressure on fees, increasing expectation from parents and a changing demographic, all at a time when the requirements to meet the Public Benefit Test remain uncertain. The Academies Programme is expanding rapidly with the numbers of maintained schools making the change increasing. For the first time governors and head teachers will need to consider many new aspects of detailed governance such as the reporting requirements of the DfE, charity and company law; all without the support previously provided by the Local Authority.

Education

Every school has its own specific issues and there is not a "one size fits all solution". We take the time to understand schools' particular concerns and objectives and we offer support, advice and best practice guidance to help governors, head teachers and finance teams make the best choices; whether the school is privately or publicly funded.

Our service is partner-led, proactive and tailored to clients' specific needs and concerns. As well as ensuring audit and financial reporting compliance issues are met, we can advise schools on:

• Systems and controls, including software selection
• VAT implications and opportunities
• Trading - tax, charity law and commercial advice
• Payroll services
• PAYE risk and compliance
• Governance - including training sessions
• Mergers and due diligence
• Business development
• Banking relationship support and advice
• Public Benefit Test