Guidance

Leasing for academy trusts

Information on leasing activities for academy trusts from 1 September 2024 following the introduction of international financial reporting standard (IFRS 16 leases).

Applies to England

Documents

Details

Many academy trusts take out leases to support day-to-day operation. This can be a sensible value-for-money approach as an alternative to buying assets outright.

IFRS 16 leases will introduce changes to the leasing arrangements for maintained schools from 1 April 2024.

From 1 September 2024, leasing arrangements for academy trusts will change to provide the same flexibilities as maintained schools to enter into certain leases without prior Secretary of State for Education approval.

‘Changes to leasing agreements for academy trusts’ outlines the changes taking place and provides a list of the type of assets granted prior consent.

Published 28 March 2024