The Cygnus Academies Trust comprises of 8 schools across Bexleyheath, Dartford and Tonbridge in Kent.
Of the eight schools 6 have their own production kitchens with 2 schools having lunches delivered in daily. The Trust is seeking interest from suitable catering companies for a new contract starting September 2023.
The Cygnus Academies Trust comprises of 8 schools across Bexleyheath, Dartford and Tonbridge in Kent.
Of the eight schools 6 have their own production kitchens with 2 schools having lunches delivered in daily. The Trust is seeking interest from suitable catering companies for a new contract starting September 2023.
Opportunity Notice: External Auditor for Cygnus Academies Trust
Cygnus Academies Trust is seeking professional auditing firms to submit proposals for providing annual external audit services in line with the requirements outlined in the Academies Financial Handbook. This is a procurement opportunity open to experienced auditors with a strong track record of working with educational institutions, specifically multi-academy trusts.
The selected firm will be responsible for conducting an independent and thorough audit of Cygnus Academies Trust's financial statements for the upcoming financial year. This will include compliance checks, ensuring that all financial activities are in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements, and delivering comprehensive reports to our Trust Board and the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA). In addition to the annual audit, the appointed auditor may be required to offer ongoing financial advice throughout the year, helping the Trust maintain robust financial management practices.
Scope of Services:
- Conduct an external audit of the Trust's annual financial statements in line with the Academies Financial Handbook.
- Ensure compliance with all regulatory and legal requirements related to the financial management of multi-academy trusts.
- Provide detailed audit reports and recommendations for improvements.
- Offer financial advisory services on an as-needed basis throughout the year.
- Attend Trust Board meetings, if required, to present findings and provide clarity on audit outcomes.
Application Process:
To apply for this opportunity, interested firms must submit a detailed proposal outlining their services and associated costs. Proposals should include:
- A brief company overview, highlighting relevant experience working with educational institutions or similar entities.
- A breakdown of services offered in relation to the annual external audit.
- Proposed costing for both the annual audit and any subsequent advisory services provided throughout the year.
- A summary of your approach to maintaining compliance with the Academies Financial Handbook.
- Details of your firm's professional qualifications, accreditations, and references from previous similar engagements.
Proposals should be submitted via email to Danielle Lewis-Egonu at danielle.lewis-egonu@cygnus.org.uk by 4th November 2024.
Cygnus Academies Trust is committed to ensuring a fair and transparent procurement process. We encourage submissions from diverse suppliers. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews, and a final decision will be made based on the overall quality of the proposal, experience, and value for money.
Deadline for Applications: 4th November 2024 17:00
We look forward to receiving your proposal and working together to ensure the financial integrity of Cygnus Academies Trust.
For any queries, please contact the above email address.
Internal Audit Requirements for Cygnus Academies Trust
As a Multi-Academy Trust, Cygnus Academies Trust is committed to maintaining the highest standards of financial governance and operational efficiency, as outlined in the Academies Trust Handbook. To ensure robust accountability, we conduct regular internal scrutiny, providing independent assurance to the Trust Board and Accounting Officer that our financial and non-financial controls are effective and compliant with statutory requirements.
We are currently seeking a new provider for our internal audit services to align with our strategic priorities and deliver a comprehensive audit framework across all schools in the Trust. This provider will play a critical role in helping us ensure compliance, mitigate risks, and enhance our internal controls.
Key elements of the internal audit provision include:
1. Risk-Based Approach: A targeted focus on high-risk areas, including financial reporting, governance, safeguarding, and operational systems. The provider must demonstrate expertise in identifying vulnerabilities and recommending practical, cost-effective solutions to mitigate risks.
2. Cybersecurity and Data Protection: As technology underpins our operations and teaching practices, a key priority for Cygnus is to address the growing risks associated with cyber threats. The chosen provider must have the capability to assess the effectiveness of our cybersecurity controls, data protection practices, and disaster recovery plans, ensuring alignment with GDPR and other relevant regulations.
3. Governance and Compliance: Ensuring that the Trust adheres to ESFA requirements, including the preparation and review of financial statements, reporting on compliance with funding agreements, and the Academies Financial Handbook.
4. Collaborative Reporting: Providing clear, timely, and actionable reports for the Audit and Risk Committee, Trust Board, and senior leaders to inform strategic decision-making.
We seek a proactive partner with demonstrable experience in the education sector, particularly with Multi-Academy Trusts, who can offer tailored insights and practical recommendations.
If you share our commitment to excellence and have the expertise to support our evolving needs, we invite you to join us in realising our vision of ambition for children and young people.
Please contact us via email with your proposal to arrange a meeting with our team.