Go Paperless with Xero’s File Inbox Feature! Ditch the paper trail and switch to Xero’s File Inbox, a convenient and efficient document storage solution. This feature allows your school to move away from traditional archiving methods while enhancing both organisation and document accessibility. While this feature doesn’t replace Google Drive (we still prefer you to upload the information needed for monthly Management Reports and annual accounts to the AFS Google Drive folder), it offers a secure and accessible place to store your school’s documents, such as lease agreements, supplier contracts, and insurance policies—all in one easy-to-access location. In your Xero file library, you’ll find an Inbox and a Contracts folder, with the option to add any additional folders you may need. You can upload files directly to the file library or email them straight to the Inbox folder.  To access your Xero inbox and create a folder: Click your organisation name, then select Files. Click the "+ New Folder" option on the left hand side Name your folder, then click save. To email a file into your Xero inbox: Click your organisation name, then select Files. Copy your unique Xero files email address (found in the upper right section of the Files Library). Add the email address to your email, attach your file and send. Move the file out of the Inbox folder and into another folder if you want it to be available permanently. Or upload by: Click the organisation name, then select Files. (Optional) Select a folder to upload the file to. Click Upload File, then select your file. Alternatively, you can drag and drop an attachment from your computer into the Files screen Extra Tip: naming the files before you send them to Xero will save time filing them to folders

View our Chalkboard - December 2024: - Merry Christmas & AFS Out-Of-Office Dates - End of Year Preparations - Important Notices - Xero Tip of the Month: Utilising the Xero Files Feature - Reminder: Xero Assistance Programme (XAP) - Looking ahead https://public2.bomamarketing.com/email/Ve46

Managing bills just got easier! With Xero’s new Quick View functionality, you no longer need to click through individual bills or juggle multiple tabs! Now, you can view and approve bills directly from the Quick View screen. This streamlined approach is a more efficient way to stay on top of your school’s payables—ideal for schools with multiple bills to process each month. Save time, reduce hassle, and ensure timely approvals with this handy feature! To access this feature, simply click the icon on the far left under the "View" tab next to the bill you want to check, and voilà — the transaction details will pop up right there! To approve a bill, go to the "Awaiting Approval" tab, select the bill/s you want to approve by ticking the box on the left-hand side, then click the 'Approve' button.

View our Chalkboard - November 2024: - 2025 Annual Budget - 2024 Annual Accounts Preparation - New Resource Coming Soon: AFS School Revenue Handbook - Xero Tip of the Month: The Quick View Functionality Tool - Xero: Changes to the Retirement Date of Classic Invoicing - Welcome to the Team: Harpreet & Gurpreet - Looking ahead https://public2.bomamarketing.com/email/GynW

As schools navigate the complexities of budgeting and resource allocation, identifying ways to reduce operational costs has become increasingly essential. While it may seem impossible to cut costs without compromising the quality of educational services, there are several areas where schools can enhance spending efficiency and achieve significant savings. Below, we’ve compiled a range of cost-saving strategies that schools can implement to effectively lower their operational costs while maintaining a high standard of education. 1. Bulk Purchasing : Explore bulk purchasing agreements for supplies to benefit from lower prices. The Ministry of Education provides information on bulk purchasing options, which can lead to significant savings. Additionally, negotiate long-term contracts with suppliers to secure better pricing on regular supplies. 3. Reduce Paper Usage: Reduce paper usage by transitioning to digital processes (where possible). This can help cut down on printing costs and promote a more environmentally friendly approach. 4. Shut Off Computers: School computers in the computer rooms and offices require a lot of electricity. Shut down the computer rather than putting it to sleep to save on operational costs. You can install software and timers into the system that shuts off all the electrical programmed appliances after school hours. That way you can save on around 12 hours of unnecessary electrical usage. 5. Hire out Facility Space: Hiring out space is an idea to bring money in rather than save, but nonetheless, it will help the school budget. Most schools have areas that can be useful for organisations in the community. Offering to hire out these spaces creates a way for schools to bring some money in while strengthening community connections. Schools may consider hiring out sports facilities or equipment, theatre space for rehearsals or shows, or the school hall for community meetings or other events. Another idea is to hire out the car park for special events nearby. 6. Waste Reduction Strategies : Implementing waste reduction strategies benefits both the environment and the budget. Schools can initiate recycling programmes and work to minimise food waste in cafeterias. 7. Work with Local Businesses: Many local businesses are interested in sponsoring school events, as it offers them valuable exposure in the community. By partnering with these businesses, schools can not only reduce costs but also create mutually beneficial relationships. Seeking sponsorships or donations can help cover event expenses, and schools may also benefit from discounts on products and services.

The Ministry of Education's Schools Buying Team is hosting a series of online sessions in Term 4 for staff responsible for purchasing, with the aim of helping them achieve the best overall value. Upcoming Topic: Buying Electricity Session Dates: Wednesday, 13 November: 3:15 - 3:45 PM Thursday, 14 November: 3:15 - 3:45 PM If you are interested, please email school.buying@education.govt.nz to let them know which session you would like to join. They will then send you the Microsoft Teams link to join the session. For more information, visit: https://www.education.govt.nz/.../buying-goods-and.../ 

View our Chalkboard - October 2024: - 2025 Annual Budget - Important Notices - Reminder - New Resource: AFS Budget Brochure - Xero Tip of the Month: The New Duplicate Bill Feature - Cost Saving Strategies: Tips for Schools to Reduce Operational Costs - Looking ahead https://public2.bomamarketing.com/email/1x5n

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