Education Sector Services

With a long-standing specialism in the education sector, Berry’s, based in Market Harborough, provides expert accountancy, audit, and business advisory services to standalone Academies, Multi Academy Trusts (MATs), Free Schools, Independent Schools, and Colleges. Serving educational institutions across Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, and surrounding areas, our partner-led team delivers tailored solutions to meet the complex financial and regulatory needs of primary, secondary, and special schools. Since our founding in the 1920s, we’ve built a legacy of trust, ensuring bursars, heads of finance, and trustees have direct access to the expertise they need. Contact us at 01858 467474 or email accountants@berry.uk.com for a free consultation.
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Specialist Accountancy for Academies and MATs
‍Our education team supports Academies, including standalone Academies (SATs), Multi Academy Trusts (MATs), and Federated Academies, with comprehensive financial management and compliance services. We are well-versed in the unique reporting requirements of the education sector, providing clarity and efficiency for primary, secondary, and special schools.

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Our Core Services

• Statutory Accounts Preparation, Preparing accurate, compliant statutory accounts to meet regulatory deadlines.
• Statutory Audit, Conducting thorough audits through TAG Berry Audit Limited, ensuring financial transparency.
• Regularity & Propriety Audit, Auditing regularity and propriety statements to confirm compliance with funding agreements.
• Accounts Return (AAR), Completing and certifying the Accounts Return for submission to the ESFA.
• Teachers’ Pension Scheme Audit, Auditing and certifying End of Year Certificates (EYOC) and returns for compliance.
• Committee and Trustee Support, Attending Audit Committee and Trustee meetings to provide expert insights and guidance.
• Advisory Services, Offering strategic advice on financial management, governance, and operational efficiency.

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Hands-On Support
We take a “handholding” approach, working closely with your team to provide:

• MAT Development Advice: Guidance on forming or expanding Multi Academy Trusts, including governance and financial structuring
• Technical Updates and Seminars: Annual updates and tailored seminars to keep you informed on regulatory changes
• Payroll and HR Support: Expert advice on payroll compliance and human resources, including auto-enrolment
• Accounting Software Solutions: Support for selecting and implementing MTD-compliant software like Xero
• Specialist Tax Advice: Optimising VAT through Academy VAT Refunds and Reclaims, and other tax planning strategies

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Collaborative Expertise
We work alongside a network of trusted professionals, including grant finders, insurance brokers, lawyers, and banks, to provide holistic support. This collaborative approach ensures your institution benefits from comprehensive advice, whether you’re securing funding, navigating legal requirements, or exploring growth opportunities.

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Free Consultation
We offer a complimentary consultation to:

• Academies considering or expanding a Multi Academy Trust
• Institutions setting up a Free School
• Educational settings looking to re-tender their audit or explore new accountancy services
• Independent Schools and Colleges seeking tailored financial support

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Why Choose Berry’s?
Our partner-led services, , ensure accessibility and personalised support. With deep expertise in the education sector, we simplify complex financial and regulatory requirements, allowing you to focus on delivering exceptional education.  
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Ready to Support Your Institution?
Let Berry's take the complexity out of your financial management, ensuring compliance and strategic growth for your educational institution. Contact us today at 01858 467474 or email accountants@berry.uk.com to schedule a free consultation. Discover how our expertise can help you craft a financially secure and successful future for your Academy, Trust, or School.

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