The Government has published guidance aimed at helping schools reduce the £10bn bill they pay annually on non-staffing costs.

Education secretary Damian Hinds estimates that the School Resource Management Strategy could help schools save up to a billion pounds through better procurement and buying strategies.

It includes information on how to work collaboratively with other schools to drive down costs on things like stationery, energy and water bills, as well as supporting schools with staff recruitment and retention.

‘I want to help schools use their resources as effectively as possible,’ said Mr Hinds.

‘This strategy equips head teachers and school business professionals with the practical advice, resources and support they need so that they can focus on what they do so well – delivering high-quality education for their pupils.

‘There can be no great schools without great teachers to inspire and motivate children, so it’s absolutely right that we help schools to maximise the money they have to spend in the classroom by working together, making sure they’re getting the best deals and are not being overcharged for services.’

Between 2014/15 and 2016/17 schools saved £106m on non-staff spending.

According to the website School Cuts, an estimated £2.8bn has been cut from school budgets since 2015.