Unlocking Potential: Streamlining Operations at OWLS Academy Trust

Explore how Keystone's expertise and tailored solutions alleviated administrative burdens, streamlined processes, and provided invaluable guidance for sustainable growth. 

The Client

OWLS Academy Trust is a multi-academy trust compromising nine primary schools in the Leicestershire area. Dedicated to providing high-quality education, OWLS Academy Trust focuses on creating a happy and supportive learning environment where each child's unique potential is realised. Their mission is to nurture confident, enthusiastic, and independent learners who achieve their best.

Managing the complexities of financial oversight, internal scrutiny, and bid writing presented significant challenges, requiring a specialist approach to improve efficiency and effectiveness. Keystone stepped in to provide the necessary expertise and support to address these challenges.

The Client's Challenges

OWLS Academy Trust previously relied on in-house staff for internal scrutiny, but this approach was inefficient and stretched their resources thin. Evaluations were often incomplete, leading to inconsistent outcomes. Additionally, their previous consultancy provider did not offer the level of detail, responsiveness, or tailored support they required.

"We faced significant challenges in managing our internal scrutiny processes, which were time-consuming and often resulted in incomplete evaluations." – Peter Merry, OWLS Academy Trust

OWLS Academy Trust needed a provider who could offer tailored, customer-focused support—one that prioritised actionable insights and had a deep understanding of the Trust's specific challenges. They required a structured and insightful approach to internal scrutiny and bid writing to enhance financial accuracy and operational efficiency.

The Solution

"We were impressed by Keystone's proven track record in the education sector, the breadth of services offered, and the positive recommendations from peers."

Keystone provided OWLS Academy Trust with a refined and effective approach to internal scrutiny, bid writing, and general consultancy. Their consultants worked closely with the leadership team to enhance financial oversight and operational efficiency.

"The most noticeable benefit has been the increased clarity and accuracy in our budgeting and bid writing processes, resulting in more effective allocation of resources."

Keystone's expertise helped streamline internal scrutiny, reducing time spent on evaluations and allowing staff to focus more on teaching and learning. Keystone's support with bid writing resulted in successful grant applications, securing additional funding for the trust.

The Results

"Keystone's support has transformed our operations and allowed us to focus on what truly matters—our pupils." 

The results include:

• Time efficiency: Keystone's expertise streamlined internal scrutiny, reducing administrative burdens and freeing up leadership time for strategic planning.

• Enhanced financial management: Greater accuracy in budgeting and bid writing success, leading to improved resource allocation and long-term financial stability.

• Operational enhancement: Improved internal scrutiny processes, saving valuable hours each week and boosting overall efficiency and compliance.

• Secured funding: Strategic bid writing support resulted in successful grant applications, securing additional resources to support student outcomes.

"The time savings equate hours per week saved across our leadership team, which has been redirected towards strategic planning and improving pupil outcomes."

"I wholeheartedly recommend Keystone to any educational institution looking to enhance their operations. Their expertise in internal scrutiny and bid writing has been a game-changer for OWLS Academy Trust. The measurable improvements in our productivity and financial management are a testament to the value they bring." – Peter Merry, CEO, OWLS Academy Trust

Conclusion

Keystone's tailored consultancy services have provided OWLS Academy Trust with the tools and insights needed to enhance financial and operational efficiency. Their support has allowed the trust to refocus on strategic priorities, ultimately benefiting both staff and students.

Discover how Keystone can transform your multi-academy trust's financial management, growth, and operations →