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The Education Authority (EA) has expressed concerns over financial issues at Assumption Grammar School in Ballynahinch, County Down. An internal audit prompted an investigation into spending practices at the school, particularly regarding the use of school credit cards. The EA highlighted discrepancies in spending, including purchases at bars and restaurants, which were deemed worrisome.
The school’s board of governors disputed the EA’s findings, citing inaccuracies and invalidated documentation in the interim report. The EA’s investigation was triggered by financial irregularities identified in the school’s internal audit for 2023-24. Concerns raised included unauthorized purchases on school credit cards and the potential risk of financial errors and losses due to lack of scrutiny.
The EA’s interim report exposed extensive use of school credit cards without proper oversight or restrictions. Examples of questionable transactions were cited, such as spending at high-end Northern Irish restaurants exceeding £1000. Despite the findings, the school maintained that the interim report contained inaccuracies that were later corrected in the final report.
In response to the EA’s report, the school communicated with parents and staff about measures taken to enhance internal oversight and governance. The school acknowledged areas for improvement in financial procedures, particularly in the use of credit cards, financial reporting, and procurement processes. The board of governors reassured that all expenditures made with school credit cards were approved by the board, though administrative shortcomings had been addressed
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