The government has launched a new advice service for schools to help them get value for money when buying in services.
Pilots of the scheme have started today in the north west and south west of England, with free advice and guidance on buying services like catering, cleaning or technology support on offer.
According to the government, the service provides expert advice, template documentation, help with “complex contracts” and market intelligence.
The service also promotes local collaboration, where there is an “opportunity to reduce costs on areas such as learning resources”
Lord Agnew, the academies minister, said: “We know that how schools use their money is important in delivering the best outcomes for pupils and this new service will help school business professionals to make better financial decisions.”
The service is free for schools in the chosen regions to join immediately, with service delivery beginning from today.
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