Education

We brought Armstrong Watson in as auditors and tax advisors and have found them to be excellent. The teams are very professional, knowledgeable and approachable particularly where we have been conducting some complex transactions where advice on accounting and tax were required. A common sense approach to things has been most welcome and I have no hesitation in recommending them.

Stuart Slorach, Vice Principal (Resources), The Northern School of Art

When we set out to find a new audit provider in 2017, we were looking for a company that would not only get to know our organisation well but become a true partner in the process. Throughout the discussion and tender process, the team at Armstrong Watson really sought to understand our needs and to look at how our Trust operated. At all stages the quality of communication was first class. It made it a very simple choice to select them for a 3-year contract.

Armstrong Watson delivered a comprehensive audit service with dedicated and consistent staff. They worked closely to design audit schedules that didn’t disturb the day-to-day operation of the Trust and were able to provide additional service for DfE grant audits and VAT work. Each audit cycle was completed on schedule and had very clear outcomes. There was always a detailed report that the Trust Board could easily review and constructive actions that the Trust executive could lead on.

Our partnership with Armstrong Watson allowed us to have confidence in the audit process, clarity in what we needed to do next to further improve and a strong collegiate working relationship built on consistency and professionalism.

Peter Ashworth – CEO Cidari MAT

We invited Armstrong Watson to submit a bid for our auditor tender.  They were one of the few organisations who made the effort to visit us before submitting their bid.  They were interested in getting to know us, understand our requirements and our strategic direction. Their written documentation was comprehensive and their presentation to the tender review panel was very professional  We were unanimous in our decision to appoint Armstrong Watson.

The first year of their audit was conducted in a thorough and effective manner, working well with our Finance staff.  Their presentations to Trustees and Annual General Meeting were well received by our Trustees and Members.  

All of the Armstrong Watson team who we have worked with are very knowledgeable, approachable, supportive and good to work with.  I have no hesitation in recommending their services.

Stephen Lester MBE, Chief Operating Officer, Changing Lives Learning Trust (previously West Lakes Multi Academy Trust)

We appointed Armstrong Watson to assist with the production of our Year End Accounts and Annual Accounts return to the ESFA and from the first meeting to the completion of the returns, we were impressed by the professional manner in which they dealt with us as a client. The team's extensive understanding of the ESFA Accounts Direction and Academies Financial Handbook ensured that the work completed was to a very high standard and they were able to complete the task in hand in a timely manner. Their ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines ensured that the returns were available when needed.

With the good understanding of the sector, together with attention to detail and professionalism of their staff, we would be happy to recommend Armstrong Watson as a provider of accountancy services for a Multi Academy Trust and other educational setting

Delta Academies Trust