Financial handbook for independent training providers in receipt of funds from the Department for Education (DfE) or Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA). This handbook is effective from 1 August 2024.
This financial handbook applies to all independent training providers (ITPs) in receipt of funds provided directly by DfE or ESFA. It provides an overarching framework to support ITPs in applying financial management and governance controls, and includes requirements, recommended best practice and discretionary elements consistent with ITPs’ obligations as publicly funded bodies.
ITPs should read this letter from ESFA’s Chief Executive David Withey, which explains more about the financial handbook and contains details on how to provide feedback.
For technical queries about the financial handbook please contact us via our customer help portal.
Financial handbook for independent training providers
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Introduction by the Rt Hon Robert Halfon MP.
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Foreword by David Withey, Chief Executive of the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA).
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An overview of the handbook.
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The requirement for independent training providers to meet their general statutory responsibilities under company law, charity law and/or other applicable legislation, and under contracts of funding with DfE or ESFA.
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Independent training provider governance arrangements.
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Financial management and oversight arrangements which independent training providers must have in place.
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Assurance arrangements and how they apply to independent training providers.
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How DfE and ESFA oversee independent training providers.
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The types of independent training providers to which the handbook applies.
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A matrix summarising each arrangement applicable to independent training providers under the handbook
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The requirements and best practice in the handbook brought together into one list.
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A pdf version of the financial handbook.