Thinking FinanceInterim School finance support that makes every penny (and minute) count
+50 schools
Managed throughout the UK
Expertly trained
Professionals in every area
H&S First
Ensureing top level H&S
From budgets to bursaries, we help schools and trusts manage money smartly, strategically and stress-free.
Finance in education isn’t just about balancing the books—it’s about making smart, strategic decisions that help schools thrive. That’s where Thinking Finance comes in.
We support schools, academies and trusts with everything from day-to-day financial operations to long-term planning. Whether it’s forecasting, funding, payroll or audit prep, we provide the expertise, systems and support you need to stay compliant, efficient and confident.
Our team works like an extension of yours—advising, actioning and anticipating challenges before they become problems. All with one goal in mind: helping you make the most of every pound, while keeping things simple and stress-free.
No two budgets are the same, and neither are the schools behind them. That’s why we offer flexible financial support that’s shaped around your setup—whether you’re a single school or a growing MAT. From payroll runs to strategic financial planning, we’ll help you stay compliant, efficient and always one step ahead.
Our Services
Interim Finance Director Support
Senior-level leadership to guide your strategy, oversee operations, and keep your finances future-ready.
Business Management Provision
Day-to-day leadership support to help your school run smoothly and stay financially sustainable.
Transactional Finance Services
From invoices to reconciliations, we handle the daily finance admin so your team doesn’t have to.
Payroll Services
Accurate, compliant payroll support delivered on time—every time.
Financial Consultancy & Advice
Expert insight and tailored guidance to help your trust or school navigate complex challenges and plan ahead.
Funding Applications
We know where the money is and how to get it—without the paperwork headaches.
Audit Preparation & Support
We’ll help you sail through audits with everything in place and nothing to hide.
Procurement & Benchmarking
Get more value for your money through smarter spending and strategic supplier selection.
Monthly Reporting & Advice
Clear reports and proactive advice to help you stay in control year-round.
Why Partner with TSfE?
Over £200 million of budgets managed annually
100+ successful audit outcomes supported
£5 million secured in funding and grants
99.8% payroll accuracy across all clients
Experts in school finance systems (PS Financials, Orovia, etc.)
Transparent pricing and no hidden charges
Ready to develop a more strategic approach to your school’s finacial managent?
Completely compliant
Financial compliance, without the faff.
From ESFA returns to payroll regulations and funding conditions, we stay on top of the fine print so you don’t have to. Our finance team ensures your school or trust remains compliant, audit-ready and protected from risk—with clear advice, clean processes, and zero nasty surprises.
Get in touch
Don't just take our word for it
Loved by Schools, Trusted by Trusts
“We wanted a website that just worked - and that’s exactly what TSFE delivered. It’s clean, simple and easy for us to keep up to date.”
“Outsourcing with TSFE is the best decision we never had time to make. Thankfully, they made it easy.”
“Since working with TSFE we've had fewer headaches, fewer spreadsheets - and a lot more time to focus on our pupils”