Audit Commission - Valuable Lessons 010709

Valuable lessonsImproving economy and efficiency in schools Briefing for head teachers and school staff with financial responsibilities July 2009The Audit Commission is an independent watchdog, driving economy, efficiency and effectiveness in local public services to deliver better outcomes for everyone.Our work across local government, health, housing, community safety and fire and rescue services means that we have a unique perspective. We promote value for money for taxpayers, auditing the £200 billion spent by 11,000 local public bodies. As a force for improvement, we work in partnership to assess local public services and make practical recommendations for promoting a better quality of life for local people.2 Briefing for head teachers and school staff with financial responsibilitiesImproving economy and efficiency in schoolsIs any of this familiar? Your budget is under pressure and you are uncertain about future funding. You have heard of other schools making significant savings, or spending less than you do, on certain goods and services. You have ambitious plans for the future, but don’t know what they will cost to implement. Your surplus revenue balance continues to increase. You wonder if greater collaboration with other nearby schools could help with budget pressures. You aren’t sure what information will help you deploy your resources in the most efficient way. You do not know the cost of the improvements in attainment ...