Optimising Income Generation for Academies and Schools

At Pershore High School, Russell has formed a trading arm for the school which now turns over in excess of £600,000 a year.

• Recognise benefits of implementing successful income generation methods
• Understand the conditions needed to be commercially successful
• Learn from real case studies how to avoid conflicts of interest
• Avoid common pitfalls in strategic delivery

• Understand the statutory regulations including Code of Fundraising Practice, company and charity law affecting income generation
• Establish transparent and accountable processes to demonstrate ethical and socially responsible practices
• Record all financial transactions in accordance with local authority or academy trust rules and regulations
• Optimise your ability to claim Gift Aid and ensure you fulfil the related administrative requirements, including VAT registration and recovery rules

Justin has a strong track record in raising funds for schools via conventional trust funds, grants and sponsorships. He has introduced an award winning strategy for the College, re-invigorating the brand and introducing social media tools to engage with diverse audiences.

• Harness your stakeholders to maximise your income generation results
• Use low cost marketing techniques that have great impact
• Understand your school’s USPs to ensure successful bids and marketing
• Work with Justin to draft a fundraising plan for your organisation

• Gain tips on how to generate income for your school
• Set out a clear strategy with key objectives
• Learn how others have raised funds through real life and practical examples
• Consider how the tight ‘attention grabbing’ style of newspaper headlines can help communicate with donors
• Share ideas on creating a fundraising strategy at your organisation

• Explore options for funding sources and learn how and where to find grants
• Understand how to get the application structure and style right
• Practical exercise: drafting a bid
• Look at terminology and buzz words to include and common mistakes to avoid

• Assess the different methods for raising revenue and identify the best way forward for your organisation including seeking donations and sponsorship, running clubs and events, providing services and letting premises
• Work with other schools to share services such as estates, finance and human resources teams
• Mobilise your workforce to obtain support and challenge through the change process
• Take back an action plan to develop strategies to maximise income for your organisation