Xero has just launched a powerful new feature called JAX (Just Ask Xero), an AI-powered assistant designed to make navigating and using Xero even easier. Whether you’re trying to find a specific report, understand a transaction, or get help with settings, simply type your question into the JAX assistant. It will provide quick, relevant answers or guide you directly to the section you need, saving you time and reducing the need to search through help articles. What can you ask JAX? Here are just a few examples: “How do I reconcile a bank transaction?” “Where can I find my aged receivables report?” “How do I add a new user to my Xero account?” JAX is currently being rolled out across Xero, so if you don’t see it yet, it’s on the way. Look for the JAX icon or search bar in your Xero dashboard and give it a try - it’s a smart, fast way to get the most out of Xero with no digging required. If you need help with JAX or the new navigation changes mentioned in our previous Chalkboard, please don’t hesitate to give us a call on 04 909 7729 . We’re here to help!

View our Chalkboard - October 2025: - 2026 Annual Budget - Budget Webinar for Schools - Thank You - Important Notices - Xero Tip of the Month: Introducing Xero’s New AI Assistant - Jax - Welcome to the Team: AJ & Zack - Update of Current Resources Available and How to Utilise Them - Looking ahead https://public2.bomamarketing.com/email/QyLP

With budgeting season underway, now is the perfect time to set your school up for financial success. A well-crafted budget not only keeps your finances on track but also supports your school’s strategic goals and daily operations. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the budgeting process effectively: 1. Start Early and Plan Ahead Give yourself enough time to gather information from all departments and review last year’s financial results. Early planning allows for thoughtful discussions and smoother approvals. 2. Use Actual Spending as Your Baseline Last year’s actual expenses are your best guide. Compare forecasts to real numbers to avoid surprises and create realistic budgets. 3. Account for Staffing and Wage Changes Remember to include any salary increases, additional staff, or changes to relief teacher costs - these often have a big impact on your budget. 4. Build in a Contingency Fund Unexpected costs can arise at any time. Setting aside around 1–2% of your total budget for contingencies provides a financial cushion. 5. Involve Your Team Engage department heads and key staff in budgeting discussions. Their insights can improve accuracy and encourage shared ownership of financial goals. 6. Monitor and Adjust Regularly Budgeting isn’t a “set and forget” task. Review your budget monthly or quarterly and make adjustments as needed to stay on track throughout the year. Turn Plans Into Action: Your Budget Timeline Once you've laid the groundwork with early planning, realistic forecasting, and team collaboration, it’s time to put your budget process into motion. A clear timeline helps ensure nothing falls through the cracks and keeps everyone aligned across key stages. Here’s a suggested budget timeline to guide your school through a smooth and efficient budgeting process: Budget Timeline 

As you may be aware, Xero has been working hard on a refreshed navigation and homepage (formerly known as the dashboard) to deliver a faster, cleaner, and more intuitive experience. The first stage - featuring the brand-new navigation - is set to launch sometime this month (September)! Here are the main updates you’ll spot in the new layout: Dedicated Sales and Purchases sections - no more digging around, everything you need is right where you’d expect it. Reports made simple - key insights are now just one click away, helping you stay on top of your numbers faster. Streamlined settings - settings are now visible across all menus, plus there’s a centralised page to keep everything organised. Smarter right-hand panel - this new hub gives you instant access to JAX (Xero’s new AI business companion), search, help, notifications, and apps - wherever you are in Xero. This revamped system helps you find what you’re looking for faster, move smoothly between tasks, and get even more value from your Xero subscription. The refreshed homepage (previously the dashboard) will launch later this year, bringing customisable widgets to give you quicker, more personalised business insights. We’ll keep you updated on when these changes go live. As Xero Platinum Partners, we’re already up to speed with the new navigation and ready to help you make the most of it. Whether you want a quick run-through, some training for your team, or simply reassurance that everything is where it should be - we’ve got you covered. If you need a hand, give us a call on 04 909 7729 or 0800 ASK AFS (0800 275 237).

View our Chalkboard - September 2025: - 2026 Annual Budget - Upcoming Budget Webinar for Schools - 8 October 2025 - Important Notices - Preparing Your School Budget: Practical Tips for a Successful Year Ahead - Xero Tip of the Month: Xero’s New Navigation and Homepage Refresh - Welcome to the Team: Breanna & Rachelle - Reminder - New Resource: AFS School Revenue Finance Handbook - Looking ahead https://public2.bomamarketing.com/email/bnyk

Did you know the Xero App Store is updated with new apps and integrations every month? Even if you’ve browsed the App Store before, it’s worth making it a habit to check in regularly. Xero is constantly expanding its ecosystem with new tools designed to save you time, improve accuracy, and streamline everything from reporting to payments to payroll. Whether you’re looking to solve a specific problem or just want to stay up to date with what’s possible, a quick monthly browse could uncover something valuable for your school. Explore the Xero App Store by clicking HERE

View our Chalkboard - August 2025: - 2024 Annual Accounts & Audit: Thank you - Timeliness of Management Reporting - Important Notices - Heads up: 2026 Annual Budget - Xero Tip of the Month: Discover New Tools for Your School - Check the App Store Regularly - Xero Pricing Increase - 1 September 2025 - Visit Us at the Upcoming NZPF Conference - Looking ahead  https://public2.bomamarketing.com/email/qgzq

Did you know every invoice, bill, and transaction in Xero includes a built-in audit trail? It's a feature some users might overlook, but the History & Notes feature lets you easily see who made changes, what was updated, and when - helping your school’s finance team stay connected and organised. To view the history for any transaction: Open the transaction (invoice, bill, or payment) you want to check. Scroll down to the History & Notes section at the bottom of the page. Click History & Notes to view a detailed timeline of changes. This feature ensures everyone is on the same page and provides invaluable context for financial reviews – especially crucial during audits or when delegating tasks.