Maximising value: How leasing ICT equipment can stretch your school’s budget

For Single Academy Trusts (SATs) and Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs), managing budgets effectively while ensuring students and teachers have access to the latest ICT equipment is a continuous challenge. With tight financial constraints and the ever-evolving nature of technology, outright purchasing of IT infrastructure can be costly. Leasing ICT equipment provides a strategic solution that enables SATs and MATs to maximise their budgets while delivering high-quality digital learning environments.

Our Department for Education (DfE) approved framework ensures compliance, value for money, and personalised support throughout the procurement process, making the leasing process straightforward and cost-effective.

Recent Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) and Department for Education (DfE) policy changes have further empowered schools and MATs to make cost-effective, eco-friendly ICT procurement decisions. These policies encourage sustainable purchasing practices, ensuring that schools can invest in technology that is not only affordable but also aligned with environmental goals, such as reducing electronic waste and improving energy efficiency.

Budget management: Spreading costs effectively

Leasing offers a practical approach to financial management for SATs and MATs by allowing them to spread costs over a fixed period rather than making a significant upfront investment. Key benefits include:

• Predictable budgeting with flexible payment options.

• Avoiding large capital expenditures, freeing up funds for other essential areas such as staffing and facilities.

• Ensuring financial sustainability by reducing the risk of investing in technology that quickly becomes obsolete.

  
  

By leasing, SATs and MATs can plan ahead, allocate resources effectively, and ensure students and staff benefit from modern technology without financial strain.

Access to high-quality, sustainable equipment

Leasing provides SATs and MATs with access to the latest, high-quality ICT equipment that might otherwise be unaffordable. This approach ensures:

• Teachers and students use cutting-edge devices that support digital learning.

• Equipment remains up to date, reducing the risk of using outdated or slow technology.

• Maintenance and support services are often included in lease agreements, reducing additional costs and administrative burdens.

  
  

With the latest ESFA and DfE guidance, schools and MATs are now encouraged to consider the sustainability of their ICT procurement choices. Leasing through our DfE-approved framework provides schools with access to eco-friendly and energy-efficient devices, helping them meet government sustainability targets and reduce their carbon footprint while keeping technology up to date.

Flexible financing options

Leasing agreements offer a range of flexible financing solutions tailored to the needs of SATs and MATs. Key advantages include:

• Operating and finance leases: Trusts can choose between operating and finance leases based on their financial approach. Operating leases are generally encouraged under ESFA and DfE guidance, but finance leases may offer long-term value for trusts with suitable financial structures.

• Customised payment plans: Payment schedules can be structured around budget cycles for greater financial control.

• Option to upgrade: Many leasing agreements allow for upgrades during the lease period, ensuring that ICT infrastructure remains current and efficient.

  
  

These flexible financing options enable SATs and MATs to optimise their financial resources while providing state-of-the-art ICT facilities for their schools.

If your academy trust is planning an ICT investment, leasing offers a cost-effective solution that ensures financial stability while keeping technology up to date. By spreading costs, accessing high-quality equipment, and leveraging flexible financing options, SATs and MATs can maximise their budgets while ensuring students benefit from modern, high-performance technology.

Contact us to explore your options and find the right ICT leasing solution for your needs.