Academy Newswire

Here’s some information from the recent updates in case you haven’t had the chance to read them.

Information

How to report fraud or financial irregularity

If you suspect fraud in the sector, you can find advice on GOV.UK which explains how to report fraud or financial irregularity to the DfE.

Stay informed about the ever-changing fraud landscape and get tips to protect yourself and the sector by registering for future fraud news and alerts here from the Counter Fraud team.

Funding

School Flooding Solution 

Is your school affected by surface water flooding? The DfE match funding (up to 50%) for sustainable drainage systems that reduce flood risk on your grounds.

Projects range from simple planters to comprehensive solutions including rain gardens, tree pits and detention basins.

The Department for Education (DfE) are pleased to announce that the Schools Water Strategy is now inviting applications for the Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) in schools Grant Scheme.

The aim of the SuDS in Schools project is the reduction of surface water risk in the school estate. This is a match funded scheme and therefore, at the DfE’s discretion and where the scheme criteria allow, the DfE can grant fund up to 50% of the total project costs.

The full application guidance, set out below, provides details of the eligibility criteria, project objectives, Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) and how to apply, alongside dates and supporting information.

Start a new application

Opening date: 14 July 2025, 2:00pm
Closing date: 20 October 2025, 9:00am

Reporting

Updated guidance for academy trusts on streamlined energy and carbon reporting

The DfE have updated their guidance for academy trusts on streamlined energy and carbon reporting to reflect the latest emission conversion factors here.

This guidance will help chief financial officers, accounting officers, and trustees of academy trusts to report energy consumption in their 2024 to 2025 accounts and develop good practice in their academy trusts.

Reminder of the Budget Forecast Return 2025 

The academies budget and forecast return (BFR) form is live.

The deadline for your academy trust to complete your BFR is 11.59pm on 28 August 2025.

If you are new to the BFR, you will need a DSI account to access the BFR. To create a new DSI, see the guidance on DfE Sign-in.

To find out more, visit the BFR guidance page.

This includes comprehensive details about the form, the chart of accounts mapping, and how to get support during the collection period.

Training

Upcoming events to add to your diary

Chair of Trustees and Governors Training – 11 September 2025 – Sign up here

Academy Schools Forum – 16 September 2025 – Sign up here

Regards

Michaela, Gary, James and Matt

PS if you don’t already receive the ESFA updates direct from the ESFA, you can subscribe here.

We specialise in advising business managers and bursars on the accounting, VAT and audit requirements for an Academy. 

If we don’t already act for your school or if you would like to attend our next Academy Forum (free of charge), speak to Michaela Johns, our Academies expert on 023 8046 1256. 

You can also visit www.academyvat.co.uk for guidance on VAT rules for academy schools.