Understanding school budgets better

What was the issue addressed?

Every year there is confusion as to what is and isn’t covered in budget headings by LMS (Local management of schools). This lack of knowledge makes budgetary management difficult. Too often governors are nodding things through. Even the leadership team of the school are lacking confidence and knowledge to challenge.

What happened?

To date we haven’t done enough to be frank. We have a new LMS manager so we are using this as an opportunity to forge a more productive relationship. We have committed to gaining a systematic knowledge of the process.

What lessons were learnt?

It is early stages but it has set the tone for moving forward productively. We recognise the importance of understanding the budget better.

Reflections…

Is your governing body confident in its understanding of budget headings and regulations?

Do you work effectively with a Local Management of Schools manager?

Have your say… Have you had experiences similar to these? What do you think about the situation described?