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SBM & Procurement for Schools – Final Expanded Hub
GLS supports School Business Managers, finance teams and procurement leaders with practical solutions that help schools secure value for money, reduce administrative workload and make informed purchasing decisions. From stationery procurement and supplier evaluation to budget planning, framework agreements, eProcurement, finance system integrations and MAT-wide ordering, this hub brings together data-led guidance, procurement tools and operational insights to help schools maximise resources while supporting teaching and learning.
Procurement & SBM Hub Sections
Why are schools adopting eProcurement?
Schools are increasingly adopting eProcurement systems to improve visibility, strengthen financial controls and reduce administrative workload. Traditional procurement processes often rely on manual approvals, email chains and disconnected systems, which can make it difficult to track spending and maintain consistent oversight.
→ Related Guide: eProcurement for Schools: What It Is and How It Works
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MAT procurement: how to simplify ordering across multiple schools
MAT procurement becomes easier when trusts standardise core supplies, keep local school input visible and use ordering tools that reduce duplication, chasing and manual admin. For MAT finance directors, the goal is not to centralise everything for the sake of it. It is to create a system that gives the trust better control while helping individual schools get what they need, when they need it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can schools reduce procurement costs?
Schools usually achieve the greatest savings through planning, supplier evaluation, reducing waste and improving consistency rather than simply choosing the lowest-priced product.
What is value for money in school procurement?
Value for money considers quality, reliability, service levels and long-term costs alongside initial purchase price.
How much should schools spend on supplies per pupil?
This varies considerably between settings. Benchmarking data can help schools assess whether spending levels are broadly aligned with comparable schools.
What is a framework agreement?
A framework agreement is a compliant route to market that allows schools to purchase from pre-approved suppliers.
What is RM6278?
RM6278 relates to managed staff banks and workforce services, not general education supplies. Schools looking for a current framework or compliant route for education supplies procurement can use DfE’s Buying for Schools and Get Help Buying for Schools services to identify an appropriate option.
How can MATs improve procurement efficiency?
Standardisation, central oversight, collaborative purchasing and procurement visibility can significantly improve efficiency.
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