Foreword by the Minister for School Standards
A foreword from Catherine McKinnell, Minister for School Standards.
I would like to thank all of you involved in the leadership and governance of trusts for the important role you play in preparing young people for the next stage of their life.
It is with strong financial management and governance that schools are able to operate most effectively and deliver high-quality teaching and learning that prepares our children for the future.
I know the importance of the handbook in supporting you to achieve this.
From 1 September the handbook confirms that you will have greater freedom to manage your resources by being able to enter into finance leases for assets you use on a day-to-day basis. In addition, for those of you who receive higher levels of funding we are moving towards a position where use of a professional internal audit function becomes the norm to ensure a robust system of scrutiny.
I know that this handbook has been produced as a collaborative effort with the sector, and I would like to thank those who have contributed to its development.
I am looking forward to working with you all to raise school standards.