Academies Services
Statutory Audit
Independent reporting accountant’s assurance report on regularity to the ESFA
Teachers Pension Scheme End of Year Certificate Audit
Academies Accounts Return
Corporation tax compliance
Budget Forecast Returns
The opportunity for schools to convert to academy status, or launch as academies under the Free Schools programme, comes with many challenges. Amongst these, academies will need to consider their accounting, payroll, and audit procedures. Although all academies are charities, they have exempt charity status and aren’t regulated by the Charity Commission. However, they’re required to produce accounts compliant with the Charities’ Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP).
How can TC Group help?
We understand how academies operate and the compliance requirements to the ESFA. Existing trusts have recommended TC Group to academies.
Independent schools operate in a highly regulated environment -they’re facing challenging times with economic pressures and regulatory changes.
Here at TC Group, we provide our specialist services to Independent Schools through our charities team, experienced in advising you on the changing regulatory and reporting requirements. We make it our priority to provide you with the necessary technical support required to meet the financial challenges independent schools face.
These schools need advisors who look beyond compliance and take time to understand their school. We do just that, and this allows us to deliver solutions that meet your specific needs.
How can TC Group help?
TC Group has extensive experience working for schools, both on a large and a small scale. We recognise the diversity of the education sector and tailor our services accordingly.
We have excellent knowledge and experience in the Not-For-Profit sector, with clients ranging from large charities to smaller voluntary organisations. Our support focuses on helping them manage the financial well-being of the school, offering strategic planning advice and guidance on dealing with the Charities Commission.
With our help, you’ll be better equipped to manage the finances of your school and deal with any changes that come into place set by the Charities Commission Act. We’ll be there to help you make the right decisions.
Statutory Audit
Independent reporting accountant’s assurance report on regularity to the ESFA
Teachers Pension Scheme End of Year Certificate Audit
Academies Accounts Return
Corporation tax compliance
Budget Forecast Returns
VAT advice Consultancy advice Gift Aid advice Corporation Tax planning Risk management Payroll HR Advisory services Property Advisory services
Whether you require an annual statutory audit or an external audit to strengthen governance and stakeholder confidence, our experienced auditors deliver thorough, efficient audits tailored to the needs of independent schools and academies.
TC Group can help build key financial trends for schools. This includes KPI’s and Benchmarking to improve efficiency of spending.
Helping you to understand your financial responsibilities, regulatory requirements and strategic financial management. Financial awareness is crucial for ensuring effective school governance.
Providing clear financial overviews and strategic guidance to independent schools for informed decision-making.

We manage and process compliant payroll for academies and independent schools of all sizes. Our outsourced payroll services are tailored to fit your requirements.
TC Group helps independent schools and academies navigate VAT compliance, ensuring regulations are met while maximising legitimate VAT recovery opportunities.
Yes, for every financial year, academies must produce an annual report and financial statements.
SORP stands for Statement of Recommended Practice. It sets out how charities should prepare their annual accounts and trustees’ reports in the UK and Ireland, ensuring consistency, transparency, and compliance with accounting standards.
They have exempt charity status and aren’t regulated by the Charity Commission. However, they’re required to produce accounts compliant with the Charities’ Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP).
Independent schools operate in a highly regulated environment and are currently facing increased economic pressures alongside ongoing regulatory change. Specialist advisors help schools navigate complex compliance requirements while also addressing financial sustainability and long-term planning.
TC Group always works collaboratively and tirelessly with us to deliver quality and robust audits, despite the complexity of our structure and challenging stakeholder demands.
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