For All Saints’ Trust, a multi-academy trust with seven schools across London, it meant new computers for one of their schools when Windows 11 arrived. Without switching to DfE Energy for Schools, they simply couldn't have afforded them.
Your trust could see similar results. Here's how All Saints’ Trust made it happen - and why their Chief Finance Officer (CFO), Ann Briffa, rates the service 10 out of 10.
The savings are real
When Ann compared energy costs for 12 months before and after switching to DfE Energy for Schools, the numbers spoke for themselves:
• lead secondary school: £52,407* saved
• three other schools: £26,134* combined saving
• total annual saving: £78,541*
These figures don't include one school where old records were unavailable. The real saving is likely higher, and Ann expects similar savings year after year.
You don't need to become an energy expert
Like many CFOs, Ann found energy frameworks time consuming.
DfE Energy for Schools team handled the legwork - explaining options clearly, and sorting problems, sometimes before Ann even needed to ask. Five of the trust's seven schools moved to the new contract without adding to already stretched workloads.
It comes down to trust
What convinced Ann to make the switch wasn't a spreadsheet - it was a conversation. The team builds confidence through personal contact, taking time to explain things and following up should issues come up.
For busy finance leaders juggling multiple schools, knowing there's someone available to help makes all the difference.
The response from Ann, when asked if she would recommend DfE Energy for Schools: "Absolutely, I would recommend DfE Energy of schools. I have had brilliant support from the DfE Energy team. I rate them 10 out of 10."
Ann's experience shows that switching doesn't have to be complicated. DfE Energy for Schools service gives you access to the same energy contract used by the Department for Education, with dedicated support to help you through the process.
*Figures supplied by All Saints’ Trust and have not been verified by the Department for Education
This blog was a collaboration between the DfE Maximising Value for Pupils programme team and All Saint’s Trust to highlight potential savings for your school so that every pound is delivering for children.
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