For schools, term breaks can place pressure on day-to-day cash flow. Income from fees and other funding may slow or pause during these periods, while key commitments continue such as staff salaries, utilities, maintenance, and supplier payments. This timing difference between income and expenditure can create short-term cash flow gaps, even in well-managed schools. With a bit of forward planning, these can be managed smoothly. The good news is that with simple preparation and regular monitoring, schools can move through term breaks with confidence and maintain financial stability throughout the year. Tips to Keep Cash Flow Healthy 1. Forecast the break early: Start by building a simple cash flow view for the break period. Include: Expected income (fees, grants, or funding payments) Regular costs (payroll, utilities, insurance) Any planned one-off spend (repairs, projects, maintenance) This helps you see any pressure points early, so you can plan ahead rather than react later. 2. Bring forward income where possible: If timing allows, try to bring some income forward before the break. For example: Encourage early payment of school fees where appropriate Submit funding claims or reimbursements ahead of deadlines Invoice any outstanding sundry charges before term ends Even small timing changes can help improve cash flow during quieter periods. 3. Review and pause non-essential spend: Term breaks are a good time to review upcoming payments. Ask: Does this need to be paid now, or can it wait until next term? Can any subscriptions, services, or projects be paused or delayed? Can supplier payments be timed more evenly? Small adjustments can ease pressure on available funds. 4. Plan payroll carefully: Payroll is usually the largest and most consistent cost for schools. Before the break: Check payroll dates line up with available cash Review any casual or overtime costs Make sure holiday pay and leave entitlements are accounted for This helps avoid surprises during the break period. 5. Keep a simple weekly cash check: Cash flow can still move during term breaks, even if things feel quieter. A quick weekly check of: Bank balance Upcoming payments Expected income can help you stay ahead of any issues early. 6. Stay close to your finance and accounting support team (that's us!): Term breaks are often when small issues can build if they’re not picked up early. At AFS, we help schools regularly review their cash flow position, check forecasts, and make sure funding and payroll cycles are aligned going into holiday periods. Final thoughts Term breaks don’t need to create financial stress. With simple planning and regular monitoring, schools can stay in control of cash flow and start the next term in a strong position. If you’d like support reviewing your cash flow ahead of an upcoming break, the AFS team is here to help.

Keeping on top of your school finances while you’re out and about just got easier! Xero has refreshed the Accounting App experience to make it simpler for you to access key features and complete everyday tasks from your mobile device. The updated layout improves how you move between core areas, helping you find what you need faster and stay on top of activity wherever you are. What’s Changed - The key improvements include: A simplified bottom navigation to help you move between key areas more easily Home as the main dashboard view for a clearer overview experience Key functions such as invoices, bills, bank accounts, and contacts accessed through a streamlined Menu for easier navigation This makes it easier for you to quickly locate what you need, whether you’re processing invoices, reviewing transactions, or checking account activity. How to Use the Refreshed App Navigation: Open the Xero Accounting App on your mobile device Use the simplified bottom navigation to move between key areas Tap Home to view your account overview Access core functions such as invoices, bills, bank accounts, and contacts via the Menu Navigate directly through the Menu rather than switching between multiple screens or tabs Next time you’re using the Xero mobile app, take a moment to explore the updated layout, it’s designed to help you move through tasks more efficiently, wherever you’re working from.