Answer-led guides
Practical education IT questions, answered with evidence
Each guide separates source evidence, LeadSync interpretation and the checks needed before commercial action.
01
Choose the decision
Start with the question closest to the decision in front of you.
- ICT spend per pupil.
- Broadband renewal.
- CFR and academy accounts returns.
- Choosing a MAT managed service provider.
02
Use the answer responsibly
Use each guide to structure evidence gathering. A benchmark, standard or checklist does not replace local requirements and professional judgement.
Accountability
Sources and evidence
- Financial Benchmarking and Insights ToolDepartment for Education. Public-sector precedent for comparing school and trust spending with similar organisations.
- Consistent financial reporting frameworkDepartment for Education and Education and Skills Funding Agency. Definitions and reporting context for maintained-school financial returns.
- Academies accounts returnDepartment for Education. Reporting context for academy trusts and their auditors.
- Broadband internet: core standardDepartment for Education. Expectations for connection type, capacity, resilience, security and safeguarding.
- IT supportDepartment for Education. Expectations for planning, commissioning and reviewing education IT support.