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2025-12-31-accounts

Company registered number (England & Wales) : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

TRUSTEES’ REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

Company registered number: 08334622

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

Charity registration number: 1151733

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Report of the Director of Education

The LDBE team

2025 was another busy year for the Lincoln Diocesan Board of Education (LDBE).

There were a number of challenges that the LDBE team overcame with great resilience and a genuine commitment to provide the very best support for church school education in the Diocese of Lincoln.

In the first part of the year, some members of the Education team continued to manage complex medical and personal issues. For example, the Assistant Diocesan Director of Education (ADDE) had a lengthy medical leave of absence from June to August. It was through robust business continuity plans and the agility of the team that our services for schools were sustained at a very high quality. I am pleased to report the ADDE had successful surgery and returned to full time duties in September 2025.

Edward King House

From April 2025 to October 2025, we also had the challenge of not being able to hold meetings and training courses at Edward King House. This was due to the significant building works taking place there. The LDBE team responded very positively by relocating their training to other venues, so there was no disruption to the support we provided to schools.

Chair of the LDBE

In July 2025, the Venerable Dr Justine Allain-Chapman (Archdeacon of Boston) resigned from her role as the Chair of LDBE, to pursue a new role as the Director of Pastoral Studies and Tutor in Practical Theology for the Eastern Region Ministry Course. LDBE wishes to pass on its thanks and gratitude to Justine for her wisdom, support, care and guidance during her time as Chair.

It is the Bishop of Lincoln’s plan to appoint the new Bishop of Grimsby to chair the LDBE from September 2026. We look forward to Bishop Jean Burgess taking up this role.

In the interim, the Bishop of Lincoln appointed Dr Daphne Whiteoak as the Chair of LDBE for one year from September 2025. Daphne is a long-standing member of the LDBE and is hugely experienced in church school education, leadership and governance. As Diocesan Director of Education (DDE), I have met with Daphne on a weekly basis to strategically evaluate, plan and develop the work of the LDBE. The LDBE Strategic Plan (2024 - 2027) has continued to be implemented effectively under Daphne’s leadership of the Board. More details about the progress made in the key areas of the Strategic Plan can be found on pages 9 – 12.

The development of the Diocesan Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) strategy has continued to be a major workstream for the LDBE team. It is important that the diocese has a strong and effective MAT infrastructure in place to serve all schools that choose or need to be part of a Trust. By being part of a MAT, schools are able to enhance their capacity to manage increasing pressures related to leadership, governance, finance and meeting the needs of all

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LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

Company registered number: 08334622

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

Charity registration number: 1151733

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

pupils especially those in vulnerable groups. The key developments in developing the MAT infrastructure during 2025 have included:

At the end of the year, in December 2025, the LDBE formally agreed not to pursue a total of six MATs but to focus attention and energy in supporting the current MATs to develop hubs across the diocese and grow to a size that enables the highest quality education with optimum financial efficiency.

During 2025, six church schools joined the church MATs. The LDBE also gave consent to two church schools and one community school wishing to join a church MAT in 2026. By the end of 2025, 45 or 32% of schools are in church MATs. 7 schools are in Single Academy Trusts and 90 church schools are maintained by the Local Authorities.

Headteacher Recruitment, Performance Management and Aspiring Leaders

The LDBE team invests a significant amount of time supporting Governing Boards to recruit new headteachers. In collaboration with Local Authorities and MATs, we support local governors with every stage of the recruitment process from developing the recruitment packs to shortlisting to the interview day. In 2025, 15 new headteachers or executive headteachers were appointed. Following their appointment, the LDBE provides a comprehensive induction programme which includes providing a mentor, adviser visits, an induction training day and a Commissioning Service in Lincoln Cathedral.

The LDBE continues to provide a headteacher performance management service for church schools. In 2025, 36 schools requested this service from the LDBE. The Diocesan School Effectiveness Adviser leads the vast majority of these. She has developed a strong reputation for providing a very robust and rigorous approach from a Christian perspective. The Lincolnshire Local Authority regularly signpost schools to our service.

Recognising the challenge of succession planning and recruiting new headteachers, the LDBE team launched a new Aspiring Leaders’ Programme in September 2025. It is a series of 6 sessions through 2025/2026 to support aspiring headteachers to develop all aspects of church school leadership. There are 11 participants on the programme this year. They all received a copy of the LDBE’s brand new resource – the Church School Leader’s Toolkit.

Ofsted

Another significant workstream for the LDBE team related to the new Ofsted inspection framework which was introduced in September 2025. The Diocesan School Effectiveness Adviser has completed many hours of training (as required of her as an Ofsted inspector). Although her training has been very time consuming, it has enabled her

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LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

Company registered number: 08334622

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

Charity registration number: 1151733

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

to ensure that the DBE resources and services are totally aligned to the new inspection framework. The LDBE team is able to support schools with self-evaluation and school development planning from a Christian perspective.

During 2025, there were 27 schools inspected under the old Ofsted framework. There were changes to the inspection grading system during the year. 18 schools secured at least good or equivalent across all key areas of inspection.

There was of course deep disappointment when one church academy within the Lincoln Anglican Academy Trust (LAAT) was judged to require ‘Special Measures’ in April 2025. LAAT accepted the findings, responded quickly and robustly to address the significant issues highlighted by Ofsted. LAAT put new leadership in place, established an Interim Executive Board with senior leaders of the Trust driving this, they implemented a Rapid Action Plan, and they conducted a thorough internal trust-wide investigation into how the school got into this position – especially as it was judged as ‘excellent’ by SIAMS in July 2023. LAAT’s investigation identified school-based leadership issues unique to the school and not any issues that were trust-wide. The DBE and LAAT have reviewed and further developed quality assurance processes and systems. The school has since had another Ofsted monitoring visit which reports that LAAT is taking effective action to improve the school. LAAT has since had positive inspections in other schools and has been approved by the Department for Education to establish SEND hubs and take in another church school.

Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS)

During 2025, there were 26 church school inspections. I am delighted that all church schools inspected were judged to be ‘living up to their Christian foundation.’ Common strengths identified at inspection:

The DBE continues to support schools’ emerging priorities reported by SIAMS such as embedding a new Religious Education curriculum to deepen pupils’ knowledge and understanding of diversity within a range of religions and worldviews. Another common area for development for schools is developing spirituality through worship and the curriculum.

New Resources in 2025

In addition to the wide range of training and services we provide for schools, the LDBE team has developed new resources to help schools in key priority areas. The resources are underpinned by current educational research and practice and totally aligned with the new Ofsted and SIAMS inspection frameworks. They include:

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LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

Company registered number: 08334622

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

Charity registration number: 1151733

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

The DBE team is also writing two new resources to be launched in early 2026. They are:

The Service Level Agreement, Courses and Events

The LDBE continued to provide a wide range of support services, courses and events through the Service Level Agreement (SLA) and MAT Partnership Agreement (MPA) with schools and academies. All the church MATs subscribed to the MPA and 122 church schools subscribed to the SLA. Considering the budget pressures on schools, the number of schools subscribing to the SLA remains high. Upon request, the LDBE has been able to provide school improvement support to a small number of non-church schools.

During 2025, the Diocesan RE Adviser has further increased her engagement with the LA non-church schools. Lincolnshire County Council and the LDBE agreed a one-year contract for the diocesan RE adviser to support schools prepare for the new LA Agreed Syllabus and to report to SACRE.

Cathedral events

Two key events of 2025 were the Church School Festival and the Carol Service in Lincoln Cathedral. This year we introduced a second carol service to give more schools the opportunity to attend. Both events promoted the theme of inclusion and belonging.

There were 90 schools and approximately 2500 pupils / adults participating in the 8-day Church School Festival . The children from different schools worked collaboratively and engaged in cathedral tours, practical workshops, singing and collective worship.

Schools have shared positive feedback, and we have many photographs to celebrate and promote the event for future years.

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LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

Company registered number: 08334622

TRUSTEES’ REPORT

Charity registration number: 1151733

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

The Leadership Conference and Pastoral Care

Another key event was the Leadership Conference in April 2025 entitled ‘Seasons of Change – Leading with resilience through times of change’. We organised a range of speakers, including the Dean of Lincoln, to share their insights which would help school leaders lead with resilience through to the end of the academic year and beyond.

The pastoral care we have provided school leaders during the year has continued to be an important part of our work. We are really pleased that school leaders have the trust and confidence in the LDBE team to help them through challenging times. We have supported school communities in a variety of difficult situations such as bereavement, illness, parental complaints, managing the pressures of inspection and responding to changes in government policy.

Looking forward to 2026

2026 will be the second year of the current LDBE Strategic Plan. The three key priorities are clear, and crucial for the further development of church school education. They are:

  1. Ensure all Church Schools Live up to their Christian Foundation;

  2. Ensure Church School education is sustainable;

  3. Develop and sustain partnerships for the benefit of church, school and home.

There are agreed actions and milestones to help the LDBE achieve the Diocesan Vision for Education.

The Strategic Plan allows the LDBE team to be agile in responding to the changing landscape in education. In 2026, the Government will publish a White Paper which is expected to lead to some fundamental changes in Special Educational Needs provision in schools. It is also expected to lead to the further development of schools working in groups to further improve the quality of education for all.

There will be also further work on developing a new National Curriculum and on-going explorations on whether Religious Education will be part of that in the future.

Whatever the changes are on the national landscape, LDBE will remain true to the Diocesan Vision for Education. The support LDBE provides schools will continue to be shaped by four core drivers - ‘Called, Aspirational, Rooted and Empowering – C.A.R.E.’

Canon Paul Thompson - Diocesan Director of Education

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Contents

Report of the Director of Education ............................................................................................................................... 1 Objectives ....................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Activities ....................................................................................................................................................................... 13 Achievements and performance .................................................................................................................................. 16 Financial Review ........................................................................................................................................................... 25 Plans for future periods….……………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………..…….27 Factors affecting our success ........................................................................................................................................ 29 Structure, Governance and Management .................................................................................................................... 31 Reference and Administrative Details of the Charity: itemised …………………………………………………………………………......36 Statement of Trustees’ Responsibilities…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..38 Disclosure of information to Auditor ............................................................................................................................ 38 Independent auditor’s report to the members of Lincoln Diocesan Board of Education ............................................ 39 Statement of Financial Activities ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..……..42 Balance Sheet ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……..43 Statement of Cash Flows …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….….44 Notes to the Financial Statements ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………45

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Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

The Trustees present their report and audited financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2025.

Reference and Administrative Details of the Charity Name of the Charity Lincoln Diocesan Board of Education Company registration number 08334622 registered in England and Wales Charity registration number 1151733 Trustees The constitution of the Board of Education and appointment of Directors is described in the section on “Structure, Governance and Management” on pages 33 et seq. Trustees in post at the date of signing of this report are shown on page 37.

Diocesan Director of Education Canon Paul Thompson

Contact information The registered office of the company and principal trading address of the charity with other contact details are shown on page 37 at the back of the Report. Professional advisers Details are shown on page 36.

Objectives

The objects of LDBE as stated in its Articles are:

1.1 The Objects of the Board are to promote or assist in the promotion of education for the public benefit of the Diocese

1.2 The Objects shall be carried out in accordance with the doctrines and principles of the Church of England

This is consistent as required by The Measure (see “Structure, Governance and Management” on pages 31 et seq.).

Vision and Mission

The Lincoln Diocesan Board of Education launched a new vision for education in October 2023. The vision is essentially our promise to schools. Throughout 2025, the vision has continued to enable us to deliver the LDBE’s core functions of the DBE Measure 2021 and the objects as stated in our Articles. It is through our close partnerships with schools and academies that we have a clear understanding of the needs and aspirations of our church school communities. The LDBE’s vision is our vehicle for meeting the needs of church schools so that all adults and pupils may flourish.

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Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Our diocesan vision for education:

There are four vision drivers and they are theologically rooted in the story of Moses and the Burning Bush (Exodus 3:3-12). They are:

CALLED – Like Moses was called to help the people of God. We are called to serve all adults and pupils in our school communities so that they may live life to the full.

ASPIRATIONAL – Just as Moses was aspirational in actively addressing injustice, we will work with schools and academies with the support of God to break down barriers and be aspirational for all.

ROOTED - Just as the burning bush is rooted in holy ground, our schools are rooted by a Christian foundation, through Christian hope and the love of God. Our work is driven by our deep roots of faith, hope, love, family, partnerships and links with the church and community.

EMPOWERING – Just as Moses was empowered by God to be an agent of change. The LDBE empowers church school leaders and pupils to be agents of positive change so that church schools can serve the common good in deeply Christian ways.

This is our vision. We CARE.

We have been very clear with schools that our vision is not to serve as their own school vision. Also, it does not replace the Church of England’s national vision for education. Schools have been advised to relate to the national and diocesan vision for education and consider how the Church of England (at national, diocesan and parish level) can work with schools to fulfil the bespoke vision they have for their own unique communities.

Many schools have been able to use the diocesan model for developing a theologically rooted vision to further develop and refine their own Christian vision. It is evident in schools that the national vision and diocesan vision is supporting the work in schools. Our new vision is shaping every decision, every policy and every aspect of our work with schools.

It underpins our new three-year strategic plan.

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Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

The diagram below shows how the national and diocesan vision helps to support and shape the bespoke vision schools have for their own unique communities.

Strategy

A new Strategic plan for 2025 – 2027

2025 was the first year of a new three-year Strategic Plan (2025 to 2027)

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Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

This chart shows the three key strategic priorities and the 12 areas of focus for the DBE over the next three years.

Evaluation and Impact after the first year of the Strategic Plan.

The LDBE regularly review the progress against the priorities in the Strategic Plan. As of 24th November 2025, the key headlines from our evaluations are as follows:

Number and
‘best fit’ RAG
rating		 Area of Focus Number
and
RAG
rating		 Area of Focus
1 SIAMS 7 School improvement and sustainability
2 RE 8 Finance and income
3 Spirituality 9 MAT strategy
4 Collective worship 10 Governance
5 Justice, Equity, Diversity and
Inclusion (JEDI)		 11 Vision
6 Well-being and pastoral 12 Partnerships
Key Points to note:
We reviewed our progress against the 44 success criteria for 2025/26 across the 12 key areas of work on our
strategic plan.
In November 2025, all areas of work were RAG rated green as the majority of success criteria in each area
was ‘on track’.

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Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

There are 9/12 areas where all success criteria areas are ‘on track’ and graded green. They are

✓ SIAMS ✓ RE ✓ Spiritual Development ✓ Collective Worship ✓ Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) ✓ Well-being and pastoral ✓ School Improvement ✓ Finance ✓ Vision

There are 3/12 areas where there is one success criteria graded amber.

In the last report, 38/45 (84%) of the success criteria were on track to be achieved by the end of the threeyear term.

This improved to 41/44 (93%) of the success criteria being on track. Note two success criteria in Partnerships have been amalgamated into one due to an overlap of work.

3/44 (7%) of success criteria are graded as amber and will require additional or revised focus in the academic year 2025/2026.

The three criteria currently graded as amber are as follows:

1. 2.4 MAT Strategy - A greater proportion of stronger schools choose to join MATs There is a lack of appetite from strong schools to join MATs; political stance has changed, so less pressure on schools to convert; conversion grants removed is barrier for some schools; lack of stronger schools wishing to join MATs is impacting on the capacity of MATs to take in smaller schools.

2. 2.5 Governance – A formalised promotion strategy for recruiting governors is rolled out Recruitment strategy in development; strategy document will promote diversity in school governance.

3. Partnerships / Growing Faith – Bank of case studies, instigated by the LDBE, is available to share with schools. Seek to increase team capacity (through Transformation Fund bid) to be able to identify and produce positive case studies.

Public Benefit

In determining the activities the charity will pursue; the Board has had due regard to the guidance on Public Benefit issued by the Charity Commission.

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Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

LDBE works with the various partners described on page 34 and with the 142 Church Schools within the diocese. Services are generally delivered to schools and to teachers, but the Board and staff are continually aware of the impact of its work on the pupils and students within the schools, then on the wider community.

Risk management

The key financial, educational and reputational risks to which the charity is exposed, as identified by the Trustees, has been regularly reviewed and systems established to manage those risks.

The Risk Register provides detailed information about the risks to the charity, the potential consequences if the risks are not managed, the actions being taken and a RAG rating of how well the risks are being managed. An example of key risks and actions being taken are as follows:

Insufficient growth and development of majority church MATs

During 2025, actions included the LDBE developing a new funding contribution scheme to support small schools with the academy conversion costs. The Diocesan Director of Education continued to lead regular network meetings with MAT leaders to enable them to share good practice and support the strategic development of the MAT strategy. The LDBE and Trust leaders are committed to work together to develop hubs and attract ‘capacity giving’ schools to MATs. The series of MAT roadshows were completed Spring 2025 and a new MAT promotional booklet was published in April 2025. The DDE continues to present the MAT options to Governing Boards.

Inability to maintain links between schools, the church and clergy to understand their role to protect and develop distinctively Christian education in their local church schools

The LDBE has continued to work closely with the church community to strengthen partnerships between church and school. For example, we support clergy to be effective foundation governors; we have led training for the Bishop’s Visitor programme, and we are promoting Growing Faith through our training and SLA visits to promote links between church, school and home. New case studies have been developed to support a wider range of schools to engage in Growing Faith initiatives.

Inability to appoint suitable headteachers to lead church schools effectively

The LDBE continues to provide a free comprehensive service for schools. The DDE undertakes the majority of headteacher recruitments. He supports governors with every stage of the recruitment process from developing the recruitment packs, shortlisting, interviews, induction and training. In 2025, the LDBE team also developed a new Aspiring Leader’s programme and a new Church School Leader’s Toolkit to strengthen church leadership.

Inability to appoint suitably skilled foundation governors

The LDBE administrator has further develop systems and processes for tracking vacancies and appointing new foundation governors. The LDBE team provides induction training, professional development and support for all governors. In 2025, a survey for governors identified future training needs. The LDBE team is currently developing a series of new video training modules for governors.

Inability to support LAs and schools robustly enough to improve and maintain standards of education Actions include diocesan advisers supporting and challenging LA and school leaders on issues impacting on quality of education. The LDBE continues to embed robust and effective Head Teacher Performance Management (HTPM) service for schools. The LDBE has further developed its monitoring and quality assurance programme for church MATs.

Disruption and business continuity

In 2025, with higher-than-normal staff absence and Edward King House out of use for meetings etc, we were assured that business and continuity plans were robust as our service to schools continued at a high quality without disruption. The LDBE makes good use of a technology (e.g. shared drive / database) to store and access

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Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

resources. Virtual platforms such as TEAMS and Zoom have enabled the LDBE to sustain meetings when it has been difficult or less efficient to meet face to face. The LDBE has an established IT agreement with the LDTBF to ensure IT infrastructure is secure and reliable.

Maintain a break-even budget position now that the sale proceeds of St Wulfram’s have been invested Actions included agreeing an annual review of the LDTBF grant to the LDBE for the statutory DDE post and on-costs; a regular review of investment income performance; and the development of new resources to generate income.

The Diocesan Senior Leadership Team reviews the Finance and Education risk register and reports all risks and actions taken to mitigate the risks to the LDBE committees on a termly basis.

Activities

The activities that LDBE has undertaken throughout 2025 to further the charity’s purpose for public benefit are listed under four core functions which relate to the DBE Measure 2021. They are:

AREA 1 - To promote or assist in the promotion of education in the diocese that is consistent with the faith and practice of the Church of England (with a focus on SIAMS – Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools)

AREA 2 - To promote or assist in the promotion of religious education and religious worship in schools in the diocese

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Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Worship leads. Training, guidance and resources are promoted through our professional development programme.

AREA 3 - To promote or assist in the promotion of church schools in the diocese (with a focus on school improvement to sustain good church schools)

AREA 4 - To promote co-operation between itself and other persons concerned with education in the diocese (partnerships).

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Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

associated bodies, e.g. CEFEL and AADE, to ensure our services complement and support those offered by external partners.

Courses, conferences and festivals

Over recent years, as working patterns and school priorities have evolved, we have continued to streamline the number of courses offered throughout the year, focusing instead on what schools tell us they need most. We had continued to plan three conferences annually, however due to lack of booking at the summer conference this did not run and we have spent time continuing to look at schools needs and to ask schools what they need moving forward.

Reducing the number of centrally delivered courses continues to create greater capacity for officers to provide bespoke in-school sessions, as well as work on other income streams in line with the DBE measure. This revised way of working, introduced in September 2023, has continued in 2025, with schools giving consistently positive feedback on courses and conferences.

Training events continue to cover key areas including RE, Christian Distinctiveness, Church School Inspection, School Improvement and Collective Worship. We have also experienced strong demand for sessions on spirituality, as well as governor and headteacher briefings.

LDBE remains committed to securing high-quality leaders and speakers for all conferences, ensuring schools receive the best possible support to thrive as church schools.

The Church Schools’ Festivals for infant and primary schools continue to grow in popularity. In 2025, all eight festival days reached full capacity, building on the success of the additional day introduced in 2023. This ensured that as many interested schools as possible were able to attend. It gave an opportunity to focus on an element of our strategic plan relating to inclusion and belonging, as well as celebrating pupils’ time in a church school.

The 2025 Church Schools’ Carol Service at Lincoln Cathedral was once again a highlight. This year, we introduced a second day to ensure even more schools could attend and take part. Our focus on Christmas Around the World enabled children and adults to share cultural Christmas traditions from their own contexts, with prayers and Bible readings offered in a variety of languages.

This approach not only reflected our commitment to inclusion and belonging but also provided a meaningful way to celebrate pupils’ time in a church school. We hope to continue building on this theme in the years ahead.

The LDBE Board meeting was held on the same day, enabling trustees to attend—a gesture that was warmly received and well supported.

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Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Achievements and Performance

LDBE Strategic Overview

Education

SIAMS inspections

Since January 2025, there have been twenty-six SIAMS inspections carried out in the Diocese of Lincoln. Every school received the first inspection outcome: “The inspection findings indicate that the school is living up to its foundation as a Church school, and is enabling pupils and adults to flourish”.

The Diocesan RE and SIAMS Adviser continued to attend diocesan SIAMS lead briefings, deliver training and support for schools in the Diocese preparing for SIAMS inspection. SIAMS continued to be a focus in central courses and conferences held for school leaders and teachers throughout this year.

The education team have continued to provide SIAMS support and training for schools through virtual courses, conferences, bespoke reviews and SLA visits. Schools that are expecting inspection in the next year are accessing this training and support.

School leadership

Partnerships

The diocesan education team has continued to work closely with a variety of organisations to support church schools. Strategy meetings with the Local Authorities have taken place, mostly through virtual meetings, which have been productive in providing collaborative support and advice to schools. The LDBE senior leadership team continues to be a member of several partnership boards including the Lincolnshire Education Group, the North Lincolnshire Education Standards Board and Standing Advisory Council for RE. LDBE has nominated DBE directors to sit on LA scrutiny committees. Members of the SLT are also members of the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel and the Diocesan Children and Young People’s Committee.

Officers meet with representatives from the school leadership teams, the Local Authorities, Department for Education, teaching schools and Ofsted to provide tailored support for schools in focus. We also work collaboratively with the LEAD teaching school to allocate mentors to new headteachers. In Lincolnshire, the LA consider the LDBE as a key strategic partner and agreed key priorities for Lincolnshire schools. The priorities reflect the National and regional priorities which include improving outcomes in English and Maths, improving the quality of Reception year for pupils, Attendance and Inclusion.

The LDBE continues to support and deploy Associate Advisers to enhance the capacity of the LDBE team. Associate advisers are serving headteachers with knowledge, and a proven track record, in church school leadership to be able to support other schools. They are briefed on national and diocesan policy and provided with templates and website resources to support schools in Service Level Agreement visits. The Associate Advisers, and other experienced headteachers, undertake mentoring roles for new headteachers when required. The Associate RE Advisers have a proven track record in RE leadership and increase the capacity of the team to deliver high-quality RE support and training.

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Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Support for Schools

Service Level Agreement

In 2025, 122 Church of England schools (86%) subscribed to the Diocesan Service Level Agreement (SLA) or the MAT Partnership Agreement (MPA), representing a small decrease of three schools from the previous year. We recognise that financial pressures and a school’s position within the SIAMS inspection cycle can influence decisions not to subscribe. Any school joining a MAT is required to join the MPA if they have not already done so.

Each school receives an annual support visit from either a Diocesan Officer or a Diocesan Associate Adviser. Schools within a multi-academy trust are visited by the same adviser—an LDBE team member—and a consolidated report is shared with the MAT CEO once all visits are complete. These visits continue to give the team valuable insight into each school’s strengths and areas for development. They also provide opportunities to celebrate successes, identify and share effective practice, and offer targeted support.

Since the National SIAMS team began publishing annual lists of schools likely to be inspected in a given academic year, diocesan officers have offered an autumn term support visit to schools expecting an inspection. This has been both successful and well received, and will continue in the years ahead.

Schools in Focus

Through regular partnership meetings with the Local Authorities, school visits, inspection reports and data records, we have a good oversight of church school performance.

We maintain comprehensive confidential records about schools with vulnerabilities and those in need of careful monitoring, support and challenge. The vulnerability may include one or several of the following issues: poor inspection outcomes; below average pupil outcomes; unstable or weak leadership; staff recruitment and retention; underdeveloped curriculum; financial issues and general concerns about capacity to sustain a good quality of education for all pupils.

With the intelligence we have about schools, we have been able to work with school leaders and key partners, such as the Local Authorities and teaching schools, to provide support and challenge needed to improve the quality of education in schools. For example, supporting the recruitment of new heads, training for subject leaders, strengthening governance, headteacher performance management and developing vision. More details about our school improvement offer can be found on page 20.

During 2025, some schools were taken out of focus for multiple reasons e.g. standards had improved, or leadership was more secure, but some different schools with vulnerabilities had come into focus. In October 2025, 57% of all church schools were on the ‘Schools of Focus’ register. The vast majority (75%) of ‘schools in focus’ were low risk and subject to LA adviser visits to help improve the quality of education. 7% of all church schools were considered to have multiple and complex issues (subject to regular LA/diocesan strategy meetings). We continue to work with our collaborative partners and develop the MAT infrastructure to help ease the pressures on schools.

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Headteacher recruitment

During 2025, the LDBE team supported 15 headteacher recruitment processes. Five schools did not appoint first time round due to a weak field of candidates. They were successful in appointing a strong candidate after another round of recruitment.

To ensure the recruitment process is rigorous, the Diocesan Director or Education (DDE) invests a lot of time helping the governors to develop high quality recruitment packs and well-structured selection activities. The DDE, or his representative, attends all shortlisting and interview days and advises governors if candidates are appointable or not. Recruiting high quality headteachers continues to be a challenge for schools.

Induction visits take place for all new heads appointed and they are provided with a mentor, guidance and support needed to lead a church school. Headteachers appointed in 2025 were invited to special commissioning service in Lincoln Cathedral.

Religious Education

Partnerships

The RE Adviser for LDBE attended Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education (SACRE) meetings in Lincolnshire, North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire. In September 2025, she was also appointed as the RE Adviser for Lincolnshire local authority on an initial one-year contract. In addition, she works closely with staff at Lincoln Bishop University on their regional RE hub meetings. Training has been provided on Religious Education for a range of ITE programmes, including Lincoln Bishop University Primary PGCE, LEAD Equate Teaching School Alliance and North Lincolnshire SCITT groups. A series of regular regional RE networking meetings were delivered, that are affiliated with the National Association of Teachers of RE (NATRE) and advertised via the national RE Hubs. These sessions were open to all schools and academies in line with the requirements of the DBE Measure in relation to RE.

As well as actively supporting and promoting high quality RE within the Diocese, the RE Adviser worked regionally and nationally; a member of the Church of England Education Office’s RE Working Group, representative of the Archbishop’s Council on the RE Council of England and Wales, a member of the Education Committee of the Faith and Belief Forum, the Oak National Academy Expert Advisory Group and a Trustee of Culham St Gabriel’s. The RE Adviser continued to work as a supervisor for the Farmington Scholarship (Farmington Institute, University of Oxford) and as a mentor on the Leadership Scholarship Programme offered by the Culham St Gabriel’s Trust.

The revised Lincolnshire locally agreed syllabus for schools in Lincolnshire was launched in July 2025. The Diocesan RE Adviser, in her capacity as local authority RE Adviser, has been supporting primary, secondary and special schools across the region to begin to implement this revised syllabus. The process of revising the locally agreed syllabus for RE for schools in North and North East Lincolnshire began in late 2025; this process is due to be completed by early 2027. To further support the effectiveness of her work, the Diocesan RE Adviser continued to work alongside two Associate Diocesan RE Advisers, who provide RE support across the Diocese. The LDBE primary RE curriculum materials have been adopted by 60 academies and voluntary aided schools across three Dioceses in England (Lincoln, Ely and Bath and Wells). The Diocesan RE Adviser has produced a suite of case studies for use in secondary schools and academies; these are being advertised to secondary schools locally and nationally. The Diocesan RE Adviser continues to shape training and support in light of the recommended

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inclusion of RE in the National Curriculum, as well as in response to the National Content Standard for RE (2023) and the Ofsted RE Subject Report (2024).

This work forms the basis of support for teachers and subject leaders around the Diocese of Lincoln.

Work with schools

A Diocesan Board of Education should “promote or assist in the promotion of religious education and religious worship in schools in the diocese” (LDBE Measure, 2.1a). Throughout this year, the Diocesan RE Adviser delivered primary and secondary RE networking meetings around the Diocese of Lincoln. These sessions remain free and open to all teachers and subject leaders of RE (both church and non-church schools). The Diocesan RE Adviser produced three annual newsletters, as well as running social media accounts on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook to keep in touch with RE teachers, subject leaders and other professionals around the country.

The courses and conferences programme included training sessions on teaching different religious and nonreligious worldviews, designing RE curriculum, producing and using case studies, meeting the expectations of Ofsted and SIAMS in relation to RE, assessing pupil progress in RE and other relevant topics. Bespoke training is frequently requested. Support was provided for teachers taking on the role of RE subject leader, as well as supporting head teachers and governors in their monitoring of RE. There was close working with colleagues to support schools to develop their distinctively Christian vision and monitor their effectiveness as church schools using the current SIAMS inspection framework. This included working with schools to ensure they are meeting the expectations of the Church of England Education Office’s Statement of Entitlement for Religious Education (2019). In addition to this, the Diocesan RE Adviser continued to deliver keynote and workshop sessions at conferences accessed by teachers within and beyond the region.

Work beyond schools

During this year, the Diocesan RE Adviser completed a long-term project delivered with a variety of collaborative partners, including Shooting Fish Theatre Company and cultural solutions UK, Empowering Voices, Exploring Worldviews . This project has received grant funding from a number of funders, including Culham St Gabriel’s. The project involved supporting children and young people to engage with a diversity of religious and non-religious worldviews through the medium of podcasts and accompanying educational resources. Eight podcasts were produced and are available here.

Bishop’s Visitors

The Education Team aims to ensure that every school has a Bishop’s Visitor, although this has been increasingly challenging in recent years. At the start of 2025, we had 48 active Bishop’s Visitors—an increase from 44 in 2024. During the year, two Bishop’s Visitors stepped back from the role. We also have two visitors who each support two schools, meaning that by the end of 2025, 48 schools were covered.

There is an action plan in place to look at raising the profile of Bishop’s Visitors, and their role. We are also spending time training current Bishop Visitors, so they are better equipped to work in the schools.

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School Improvement

School Reviews and general work with schools

LDBE is aspirational for all pupils and staff in all its schools. As such, strategies for school improvement are uniquely offered through the lens of the Church of England’s vision for education. Whilst reflecting the Christian inspired vision, the offer is robust and of high quality. It reflects up-to-date thinking in education practice, pedagogy and policy. The offer also reflects the inspection frameworks for both SIAMS and Ofsted. Changes to Ofsted from November 2025 are reflected in the offer.

Strategies for school improvement in 2025 included:

Head Teacher Performance Management

School Improvement Partner days and packages

Bespoke training for individual schools e.g. governance, curriculum, pedagogy

Attendance at IEBs (Interim Executive Boards)

Planned training programmes with a particular focus e.g. inclusion, SEND, Justice and responsibility

Head Teacher briefings

Governor induction and briefings

Sign posting schools to appropriate avenues of support e.g. English Hub, SEND hub

Liaison with Local Authority school improvement partners and attendance at school strategy meetings and local authority briefings

Liaison and partnership development with new RISE teams who provide universal and targeted support for stuck schools

Liaison and partnership with MAT leaders.

Responding to significant changes to the Ofsted framework (Sept 2025)

Responding and delivering training on significant changes to the schools’ IDSR (Information Data Summary Report)

A new leadership toolkit for church school leaders was developed and launched

An Aspiring Leader’s training course has been developed, which has 11 participants, and will run until autumn 2026.

In 2025 a small number of schools bought into the school improvement package, accessing support in many areas. Areas of focus included: curriculum development, middle leader development, special needs and governance.

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Bespoke training has been a feature of school improvement work which has allowed school leaders the opportunity to really focus on the particular needs of their school. This area is a competitive market, particularly with the growth of the DfE funded offers for the wide range of National Professional Qualifications and the development packages provided by national education and teaching hubs e.g. Maths, English, behaviour, etc.

There continues to be an increased number of requests for bespoke governance training. Often these are focused on the roles and responsibilities of boards or to support boards’ understanding of inspection. Two multi-academy trusts have held trust wide training for trustees and local boards. One trust has also accessed training for its central team.

Themes of special needs, justice, diversity and inclusion continue to be a priority for the training programme.

Justice, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion have been woven throughout the strands of the LDBE’s work. Monitoring of school outcomes in this area takes place. Training programmes highlight opportunities for schools to respond strategically to the call to action in From Lament to Action. The LDBE have contributed to National debate around Special Educational Needs too.

36 schools benefited from the head teacher performance management (HTPM) process in autumn 2025. Of which 34 were church schools and 2 were non-church. When considering church schools alone, this is a 1% increase on the previous year. The HTPM process helps governors to support the professional development of their senior staff through the lens of the Church of England’s vision for education. Robust conversations ensure head teachers’ targets are appropriate to context, reflective of local and national priorities and the school’s own Christian vision. Data analysis this year shows that schools who engage in the HTPM process have higher outcomes than those which do not.

Members of the central team maintain strong links with local authorities. This enables appropriate support to be offered to schools when needs arise. LDBE members provide additional support for all schools who are under scrutiny from their local authorities. Partnerships across local authorities continue to be prioritised. LDBE is a partner of LEG (Lincolnshire Education Group) and works closely with other organisations including Teaching School Hubs, SEND partnership boards and Research schools.

Nationally new RISE (Regional Improvement for Standards and Excellence) teams have been established this year. The Diocesan Director of Education has fed into consultation groups about these teams. We liaise directly with appointed RISE advisors for any schools which require intervention. We further direct schools to the universal support which is offered.

Head teacher and governor briefings continue to be well attended. They enable the central team to communicate updates to reflect both National and local priorities.

Church School Distinctiveness and Statutory Inspection of Church Schools (SIAMS)

The LDBE team have continued to provide the support schools need to further develop an effective and distinctive Christian character. There has been an ongoing focus on developing a Christian vision for the schools. Support and training are provided to help school leaders and governors to develop and embed a vision, that is rooted in theology, in line with the Church of England and Diocesan vision for education and meets the needs of

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the community. This focus on vision has been particularly powerful for many schools as they have used this to steer through the challenges and identify areas for development. The LDBE SIAMS training offer has been developed in response to the SIAMS Annual Report, with a greater focus on supporting governors in their ongoing monitoring and evaluation of their school as a church school. With the LDBE training offer in place, and the schools increasing engagement with in-person and virtual training, schools are well placed to further develop their Christian character and be successful at their next inspection.

In response to requests from schools the team has:

Courses, Conferences and Festivals

873 delegates attended a total of 39 training events in 2025. This year shows our new structure of offering fewer courses, giving officers more time to deliver bespoke training in schools and pursue other ways to support the schools in line with the DBE measure, for example resource creation. (2024 – 873 delegates attended 37 events). Courses, conferences and events are now just one element of our provision for schools rather than the main element and we will continue to adjust our support for schools moving forward, according to the needs of the school. SIAMS related topics and RE training are the most significant topics, as well as our free briefings for Headteachers and governors. The programme of courses, conferences and training opportunities is reviewed annually and aimed at a range of stakeholders including senior leaders, governors, teachers, RE subject leaders, support staff, Bishop Visitors and clergy.

In addition to central training events, the team has provided 50 school-based training sessions, reviews and bespoke work for individual schools and MATS.

2,201 pupils attended the Church School Festival in 2025 (2,459 attended in 2024). 431 pupils attended the carol services in December 2025, (253 attended in 2024). The increased number of pupils attending the carol services reflects offering two dates and a theme of ‘Christmas Around the World’. We hope to build on this moving forward.

Schools’ capital (2025)

18 of the Church Schools in the Diocese of Lincoln, including 1 in North Lincolnshire, had Voluntary Aided (VA) status at the end of the year (19 in 2024). One Lincolnshire school that began the year as VA school within a federation, moved to an academy trust on 01 September 2025.

The 2025/26 academic year was the seventh year of the School Condition Allocation (SCA) grant. LDBE continued the partnership with the Diocese of Sheffield, established in 2020. The principal contact changed at the Diocese of Sheffield following a retirement, but the shared knowledge and expertise continued maintaining the strong working relationship. LDBE remained the lead receiving the 2025/26 grant allocation for both organisations.

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The grant is allocated to priority projects identified in the conditional surveys of all the VA schools across both Dioceses. The projects supported required funding beyond the financial capabilities of school budgets, typically costing tens if not hundreds of thousands of pounds.

The panel discussion was convened of representatives from both LDBE and the Diocese of Sheffield along with the architects in the spring of 2025. The panel considered projects that met the criteria of most urgent need, the schools’ financial position and whether it is necessary to complete the work in phases. School site visits were organised to assess the current fabric of the buildings, to see first-hand issues raised, and to determine if the work would be classed as priority work.

Due to the geographical location of the some of the rural schools, particularly in Lincolnshire, finding contractors to tender for the work can lead to delays in the work starting. One project for a new heating system throughout the school, reconfiguring the boiler’s position on the premises, the scale and likely disruption meant the project has had to delayed for 12 months. The key summer holiday will be crucial for completing the project, it was just not feasible in 2025.

Projects that received funding this year included addressing the emergence of a sink hole, roof replacements, as in previous years, and replacing single glazed windows and those with metal frames. The window projects were part of a drive to improve the insultation of the schools, reducing their carbon footprint as part of the Church of England to be net zero carbon by 2030.

On the net zero carbon agenda, following on from the replacement windows mentioned above, a couple of schools have installed solar panels on buildings. The Heat Decarbonisation Site Reports (HDSR) completed the previous year referenced installing air source heat pumps at most of the sites. To date none have been installed as there remain constraints in terms of the funding and balancing other key projects that need to be addressed, e.g. sink hole and leaking roofs. The cost is also a consideration for the school on how it will fund 10% of the cost as with any capital projects. The Church of England has recognised this as an issue and is looking to introduce a scheme where Dioceses / schools can apply for the 10% to be covered from a new fund that is being made available in due course. The timing of when boilers go wrong leaves a school looking for straight forward like for like replacement to ensure the buildings have heating to support the education of the children.

The LDBE works closely with Net Carbon Enabler at the Diocese of Lincoln on looking for potential funding sources to work on additional net carbon projects in the light of no additional funding rounds for Public Sector Decarbonisation Funds. The scale of the investment identified within the HDSR completed last year has been shared with Net Carbon Enabler, and projects that would change the fossil fuel source from oil to gas is seen as a positive step. The emissions from gas are far less than oil. Gas is not always an option in the small rural schools as the supply has not always reached those locations.

LED lighting, one of the quick wins for schools, is common across the county. Schools have invested in LED lighting through their own funds, the devolved formula capital and other external sources.

The SCA grant continues to be received into the LDBE bank account. The contracts remain between the Governors and the suppliers and for the grants between the Governors and the DfE. The income and expenditure are not included in the LDBE Statement of Financial Activities for the charitable company. Note 12 to the Financial Statements discloses the amount of grant involved.

LDBE accounts continue to show a fee charged to the schools for administering the funds and completing the relevant returns to the DfE.

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LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Site Trusts

Site trustees generally hold the school buildings and playground on trust for education in accordance with the principles of the Church of England. In many cases, the trustee was Lincoln Diocesan Trust and Board of Finance Limited (LDTBF), but often the Vicar and Churchwardens of the parish were appointed and sometimes a local charity is the trustee, or the land is leased rather than held freehold.

Under the Transfer Agreement of 2018, LDTBF site trusts and custodian trusteeships have transferred to LDBE. To ensure the directors of LDBE, as trustees of the sites, are made aware of site matters these are presented to the Finance & Administration Committee and ratified by the full board.

During 2025 we have continued the exercise to ensure that all such trusts and land holdings are in order.

The table below indicates the types of trusteeship, and number of schools included in each category –

Trustees

Custodian Trusteeships

The category ‘Orphan’ is used to indicate sites where work is needed with the Charity Commission, essentially these are sites where the trustees no longer exist. It is hoped these can be brought into LDBE’s trusteeship.

Four sites remain completely unknown; work is ongoing – but it is possible that all routes may be exhausted without success. In such cases, work with the Charity Commission to determine a trustee will be needed.

Closed Schools General Purpose Reserve Fund

This is an LDBE restricted fund; its purpose is to support Christian education within the Diocese of Lincoln. During the year 15 grants of up to £500 totalling £6,301 (2024 - £9,056) were made to individual schools. The number of grants approved in 2025 was four less than in 2024. Bids approved for funding are often to support the school vision, often on new signage. Another common theme where funding has been approved is to provide or enhance a quiet outside space to support the children’s wellbeing alongside nature.

The £ value of grants submitted and approved, meeting the eligibility criteria in 2025, represents a 30% decrease on the previous year. 2025 was the first year where the new criteria applied to maintain the fund over the long term. A school can now apply for a grant once every three years, previously this has been annually, but the clock is reset if a new head teacher is appointed.

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The 2025 budget received Board approval to transfer £20,000, recorded as part of the grant income, from the fund to support the Schools Improvement programme.

Financial Review

Reserves policy

The Directors of LDBE considered the reserves policy at the Finance and Administration Committee in March 2025 and agreed to hold reserves equivalent to 12 months of operating costs.

At the end of the 2025 financial year, the total reserves have increased to £8,074,765 with unrestricted accounting for £956,165 (2024 - £847,248), restricted £849,489 (2024 - £811,077) and the endowment £6,269,111 (2024 - £5,918,491). The endowment includes properties and sales proceeds for surplus assets.

The level of free reserves, unrestricted less fixed assets, equates to £953,979.

Income

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resources available over time. Ease of purchase through a website has been introduced, one click and the school has the resources to hand. The website company transfers the funds to LDBE at the end of the calendar month.

Expenditure

Based on the above in the context of the current economic and political environment, the Charity will aim to hold free reserves equivalent to 12 months of operating costs, in line with the reserves policy. 2025 general expenditure equals £595,283. At the 31 December 2025, the general funds stand at £956,165 ratio of 1 : 1.6 of 12 months operating costs.

The directors note that in the current five-year plan, maintaining free reserves equivalent to 12 months operating costs is achievable. This will be subject to any market fluctuations and the impact of the value of investments outside of the trustee’s control in a challenging world order. The improved ratio benefits from the sales proceeds

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LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

invested at the end of 2024 and the additional returns generated in 2025 along with favourable increase in the value of the investments over the last 12 months.

Challenges remain ahead throughout the current five-year plan. LDBE’s own MAT strategy, promoting the benefits of joining will, in time, lead to a reduction in some income streams. This will depend on the level of services currently purchased by schools from LDBE, prior to joining a MAT. Every school is different and the impact will be unique on how LDBE finances are affected. Following the withdrawal of the £25k grant for schools converting to academy status, LDBE designed a process, reviewed and approved, that in certain circumstances may be able to provide financial support to schools.

Inflation has remained stubbornly high, as the largest area of expenditure is salaries, any increase through a pay award increases the recurrent costs of structure in place. There is the balancing act of rewarding, retaining and recruiting staff with affordability over the long term whilst addressing the other points raised above in this paragraph.

The risk register recording financial issues is reviewed on a quarterly basis by the appropriate committee. The points raised above around how some income streams are likely to fall if more schools join MAT’s, pressure on school budgets and retaining staff for continuity of service are all acknowledged with plans of action to mitigate the challenges whilst seeking new opportunities, several of which have been referenced above.

The directors are satisfied the reserves at 31 December 2025 are sufficient, and the policy will be kept under review and revisited in 12 months’ time. The review will compare 2026 performance against budget, forecast adjustments that will be recurrent income assumptions in future years, new income streams, changes in policies, the implementation of any further cost reduction plans and the impact on the forecast reserves.

Principal funding sources

The Income and Expenditure Account shows Grants for the year totalling £137,969 compared to £195,422 in 2024, as per note 2. The reduction over the 12 month period is down to the sale of surplus assets which are one off events.

The statement of financial activities shows how crucial the investment income is to LDBE with £274,657 (2024 - £211,064) and the impact of the additional £1.1m invested at the end of 2024.

The total income earned from fees charged is shown in note 3. Fees are charged for attendance at courses, conferences and festivals with different rates for face to face and online delivery of training. Conferences remain face to face, allowing delegates the opportunity to network during planned intervals and workshops. HTPM and School Improvement Programme are two other key funding sources but are likely to reduce in the years ahead if the schools currently purchasing these services from LDBE move into a MAT.

The Closed Schools General Purpose Reserve Fund receives income from investments which must be spent or granted in accordance with the terms of the fund.

Plans for future periods

As already noted, the LDBE has a strategic plan for 2025 to 2027 to set out its key operational approaches for carrying out the functions of the DBE Measure 2021, and realising the national and diocesan vision for education.

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In addition to this plan, LDBE has updated its Diocesan Strategy for Academisation in Summer 2025. Updates mainly reflected changes in government policy. This can be found on the diocesan website via this link: https://www.lincolndiocesaneducation.com/matstrategy

This is a public facing document that every diocese is expected to have according to the new model Articles for Church of England multi-academy trusts (MATs). The document provides comprehensive information about how the LDBE will relate to all key stakeholders in order to support the development and growth of church MATs in the diocese.

The LDBE MAT strategy aims to ensure that the church MATs in the diocese are supported to flourish, so that they can serve church schools of different sizes and in different contexts. The Diocesan Director of Education will continue to hold termly CEO network meetings, having proved to be a useful vehicle for implementing the MAT strategy. The roadshow events and videos for school leaders and governors have helped school leaders deepen their understanding of the MAT strategy and the benefits of being part of a church MAT.

In Autumn 2025, one of the five church MATs, Abbey Academy Trust (AAT) confirmed it was reviewing its future as a MAT following the departure of the CEO. AAT Trustees were considering whether to appoint a new CEO or explore a ‘voluntary merger’ with another church MAT. Their decision was not known by the end of 2025, but these potential changes to a church MAT (in addition to changes in the way DFE were using MATs to support school improvement) led to the LDBE reviewing the MAT strategy in December 2025.

In December 2025, the LDBE agreed that it would focus on supporting the four MATs (LAAT, St Lawrence Academies Trust, Keystone and Infinity) to grow and develop to 8,000+ pupils over the next few years rather than aim for six MATs. There would be a focus on developing MAT hubs across the diocese and LDBE would continue to state the LDBE’s desire and preference for all schools to join a church MAT.

The LDBE planned to meet again in January 2026 to consider Abbey Academy Trust’s decision about exploring a ‘voluntary merger’ and the impact this would have on the MAT strategy. In January 2026, the LDBE would consider if a new MAT would be needed to replace the Abbey Academies Trust. If a new MAT was needed, 2026 would involve a robust process to establish a new church MAT that could work collaboratively with LDBE and the other church MATs to serve schools across the diocese.

The diagram below shows how the educational landscape may change if all the LA maintained church schools and stand-alone academies are part of five church MATs. The LDBE will be at the centre of the five diocesan approved MATs, and have a pivotal role in supporting them to maintain the Christian character of all church schools within them. This diagram is used regularly in our briefing and training sessions to explain the diocesan MAT strategy to school leaders.

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The LDBE’s strategic plans are regularly reviewed and designed to be flexible to accommodate emerging priorities.

Factors affecting our success

All church schools are subject to statutory legislation. The many and substantial changes over recent years are therefore significant to LDBE, as to other DBEs:

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Lincolnshire’s geography has challenges relating to rural, coastal and urban poverty. There are many small, rural schools that are increasingly finding it difficult to attract a high calibre of staff or the resources they need to sustain high quality education. Promoting diversity in leadership and through the curriculum is also a challenge in some mono-cultural villages and towns in the diocese.

The LDBE continually reviews its Risk Register to ensure there are strategies in place to address the factors that may affect our success.

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LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Structure, Governance and Management

Diocesan Boards of Education

Diocesan Boards of Education are regulated by measures – which stipulate how the board that oversees the Director of Education’s work should be made up.

Members of the unincorporated Diocesan Board of Education became the first Members and Directors of LDBE on incorporation in 2013 and the company became active on 1 January 2014.

In April 2021, a new measure was approved by the General Synod. This required that a new scheme of the board be drafted, and certified by the Archbishops’ Council, allowing it to then be ratified by Diocesan Synod. This scheme came into force on 1[st] March 2022, and states that the board will be comprised of:

(a) The Bishop,

Where the number of nominations is within the maximum allowed within (b) or (c), the individual is automatically appointed to the Board. It is possible that under (c), there may be more nominations than the maximum places available. At this point, all nominees will be asked to present their case in front of the electing body as to why they should be appointed to the Board. The electing body will decide who to appoint. Any unsuccessful applicant can apply under (d) to be a co-opted member of the LDBE. The appointed members of the Board under (a), (b) and (c) will make the decision around the appointment. All appointed trustees have equal voting rights. If a vacancy becomes available, under (c) an individual can be nominated by members of Diocesan Synod to be elected to the Board. If a vacancy arises under (d), an individual with the skills set to aid the Board in meeting its strategic objectives may be approach. The individual may or may not choose to join the Board.

This new measure also required that new articles for the company be drafted, which were adopted by special resolution of the directors of the board on 10[th] February 2022, and which came into effect from 1[st] March 2022.

Committees of the Board

The Board delegates closer involvement in the work of LDBE to two committees, Learning & Development and Finance & Administration, each supported by a designated Officer. A Committee will be quorate at least 40% or five Members being present. In addition, the Director of Education or his Assistant Director must be present.

Trustees

The Trustees who have served at any time during the year or who were in post at the date of signing this Report are noted below:

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FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Surname Forename(s) Date
appointed		 Date
retired		 Committee Appointment
Adnitt Michael Iain 01/01/19 F&A CO-OPTED
Allain -Chapman Justine Penelope Heathcote 19/04/22 31/07/25 n/a BN
Bacon Julie Kathleen 21/11/20 F&A E
Beverley Joan Hilary 01/01/16 L&D E
Booth Fiona Beth 14/01/25 L&D CO-OPTED
Brewster Paul David 01/03/22 F&A CO-OPTED
Brown Nicholas James Watson 01/03/22 31/08/25 F&A BN
Burgess Rt Rev Jean Ann 09/06/26 n/a BN
Chamberlain Rt Rev Nicholas Alan 17/03/26 n/a EX-OFFICIO
Conway Stephen David 11/11/23 06/03/26 n/a EX-OFFICIO
Edwards CherryAnne 01/01/16 L&D E
Ely Sonya 12/03/20 L&D CO-OPTED
Fisher Nicolete 16/12/13 F&A BN
Holmes Leanne 14/01/25 F&A CO-OPTED
Lawrence Victoria 01/01/25 F&A E
Machell Georgina 07/05/19 L&D BN
Robinson Ian 01/03/22 L&D BN
Sarvananthan Sudharshan 15/07/23 F&A E
Stern Julian 01/03/22 L&D CO-OPTED
Warrick Alison 01/01/16 F&A E
Webb Michelle Dawn 09/04/25 F&A E
Whiteoak Daphne 12/03/19 L&D CO-OPTED

F&A – Finance & Administration Committee L&D – Learning & Development Committee E – Elected by Diocesan Synod BN – Bishop’s Nomination

Remuneration of Key Personnel

LDBE employees are a key responsibility of the Directors. The Finance & Administration Committee reviewed the remuneration package for staff in 2025, improving the sickness benefits package and annual leave days after five years of service. The aim of the review is to ensure the benefits of working for LDBE as in line as possible with other similar organisations. The Finance & Administration Committee will make a recommendation to the Board on pay awards using the previous 12 months CPIH statistics as a guide. Affordability and the current economic trends will form part of those discussions. Benchmarking with other comparable organisations is also considered and provided where the information is available.

Induction and training of Trustees

Members are supplied with a Directors Induction Pack, which includes the Measure, the Memorandum and Articles of Association. Members also receive Charity Commission guidance on the Responsibilities of Trustees on appointment. In reporting to the Board and Committees, Officers ensure that they provide sufficient background information and explanations to enable Members to make informed decisions.

32

Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Conduct of Business

The full Board meets four times a year. It is responsible for ensuring that the charitable company complies with the requirements and regulations outlined above and that it works efficiently and effectively to further the diocesan vision for education. Board members are volunteers.

The Board delegates business to two sub-committees. Committee responsibilities are broadly as follows:

Finance and Administration Reviews budgets, forecast, cashflow and monitors financial results. Committee Review the investments and receives annual presentation from the appointed Chair: Canon Nicolete Fisher investment managers. Members: 9 Reviews the financial risks recorded on the risk register. Oversees the implementation of policies and procedures, processes and systems. Supervises the appointment process for Foundation Governors. Learning and Development Monitors school effectiveness Committee Considers school place provision Chair: Dr Daphne Whiteoak Produces strategy around teaching and learning particularly of RE Members: 9 Reviews the educational risks recorded on the risk register

The Board has delegated day to day management of the charity to the Diocesan Director of Education and their team. During 2025 this included:

Education Officers Assistant Diocesan Director of Education School Improvement Officers Two School Effectiveness Advisers Core support staff Finance & Operations Manager Three Administration Officers

Within a small team it is often the case that we are working across different activities and helping each other.

The staffing structure remained unchanged throughout the whole of the 2025 financial year.

Charitable company

Until 31 December 2013, the Board of Education of the Diocese of Lincoln operated from within the Lincoln Diocesan Trust and Board of Finance Limited (company registered number 97256, charity registration number 249355). With effect from 1 January 2014, operations transferred to a new company, limited by guarantee, which is also a registered charity.

The governing document of LDBE is its Articles of Association. The Board must also comply with The Measure, with company and charity law.

Working partnerships : related parties

LDBE is not part of a “group” of companies, but it has close operational and financial links with certain other bodies, as noted below.

Lincoln Diocesan Trust and Board of Finance Limited (LDTBF)

LDBE works closely with LDTBF. LDBE relocated to the headquarters of LDTBF and now rents serviced offices from LDTBF.

33

Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

The two organisations have a data sharing agreement which is GDPR compliant and allows us to work together to further the work of the schools and parishes. The two organisations work closely on the provision of IT services and security.

The Diocesan Director of Education is also a member and invited to attend Bishop’s staff meetings and strategic away days. The Assistant Diocesan Director is a member of the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Board.

Academy Trusts

LDBE is a corporate Member of all the church multi-academy trusts and single academy trusts in the diocese of Lincoln (as per the Articles of Association) for these Trusts. The LDBE nominates a representative to attend the Annual General Meetings and other meetings arranged for Members of the Trust.

Working partnerships: wider network

Diocesan Education Officers are members of numerous networks, meeting regularly to share good practice with colleagues from other Dioceses and the National Society.

The LDBE works closely with Lincolnshire, North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire Local Authorities, the Lincolnshire Education Group, North Lincolnshire Education Standards Board, Ofsted and the Department for Education Regional Director’s Office to support church schools and academies in the Diocese.

Every church school sits within a parish. The LDBE supports schools to develop a strong and fruitful relationship with the parish. As part of the diocesan-wide project, ‘Time to Grow Together’, we will be engaging with the Local Mission Partnerships as they become established to ensure there is strong connectivity between schools and the church community.

Some of these relationships ensure officers keep up to date with new initiatives to provide appropriate support and advice to schools. Some are about influencing policy and others about working in partnership to ensure schools get a cohesive and relevant offer.

Table 1 below shows how we work with other organisations.

34

Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Table 1 : working with other organisations

Professional body Main involvement
Department for Education Working with the Regional Director/DfE to form new church MATs and convert
church schools into academies; and to monitor performance in schools and
academies.
Ofsted Feedback at inspections and monitoring visits
National Society - Church of
England Education Office		 National guidance and support e.g. relating to SIAMS inspections
North Lincolnshire Local
Authority		 School improvement, headship recruitment, Education Standards Board, Scrutiny
Panel and SACRE
Lincolnshire County Council Children’s and Young People Scrutiny Panel, Schools Forum, SACRE, Supporting
vulnerable schools, Headteacher recruitment, Strategy Meetings
North East Lincolnshire Local
Authority		 Children’s and Young People Scrutiny Panel, SACRE
The Lincolnshire Education
Group (LEG)		 Key strategic partner to support sector led school improvement in Lincolnshire
Association of Anglican
Directors of Education (AADE)		 National updates and strategy on church school education
Diocesan Admissions Group National updates on admission policy
Diocesan Governance Group National Updates on Governance
National Governors Association Plan training for Members of MAT and SATs; support and guidance for school
governance
Association of RE Advisers,
Inspectors and Consultants		 National updates on Religious Education
Lincoln Cathedral Church Schools Festivals
LDBE Carol Service
Headteacher Commissioning Service
The Diocesan Director of Education is a LayCanon

35

Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Reference and Administrative Details of the Charity: itemised

Bankers NatWest Bank plc Smiths Bank 225 High Street Lincoln LN2 1AZ Solicitors Lee Bolton Monier-Williams Chattertons Solicitors 1 The Sanctuary 9 Broad Street Westminster Stamford SW1P 3JT PE9 1PY Womble, Bond & Dickenson 1 Whitehall Riverside Leeds LS1 4BN Auditor HaysMac LLP 10 Queen Street Place London EC4R 1AG

36

Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Trustees At the date of signing Dr D Whiteoak, Chair Rt Revd Jean Ann Burgess Mr M Adnitt Mrs J K Bacon Dr H Beverley Mrs F B Booth Mr P Brewster Rt Revd N Chamberlain, Acting Bishop of Lincoln Mrs C Edwards OBE Mrs S Ely Canon N Fisher Mrs L Holmes Revd V Lawrence Revd G Machell Revd Canon I Robinson Revd Canon S Sarvananthan Prof J Stern Mrs A Warrick Revd M Webb

Diocesan Director of Education
Registered office
Principal address
Telephone number
Website
Email		 Canon P Thompson
Edward King House
Minster Yard
Lincoln
LN2 1PU
Edward King House
Minster Yard
Lincoln
LN2 1PU
01522 504010
www.lincolndiocesaneducation.com
education@lincoln.anglican.org

37

Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Statement of Trustees’ Responsibilities

The Trustees (who are also directors of Lincoln Diocesan Board of Education for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Trustees' report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Company law requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under company law the Trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure of the charitable company for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to:

The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the charitable company's transactions, and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

The Trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the charitable company’s website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

Disclosure of information to Auditor

Each of the persons who are Trustees at the time when this Trustees' report is approved has confirmed that:

In preparing this report, the Trustees have taken advantage of the small companies exemptions provided by section 415A of the Companies Act 2006.

This report was approved by the Trustees on 30 June 2026 and signed on their behalf by:

Dr Daphne Whiteoak, Chair of the Board

38

Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Independent auditor’s report to the members of Lincoln Diocesan Board of Education

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of the Lincoln Diocesan Board of Education for the year ended 31 December 2025 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet, the Statement of Cash Flows and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion, the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees’ use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Other information

The trustees are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the Trustees’ Report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit:

39

Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charitable company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the Trustees’ Report (which incorporates the directors’ report).

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of trustees for the financial statements

As explained more fully in the trustees’ responsibilities statement set out on page 38 the trustees (who are also the directors of the charitable company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charitable company’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud.

Based on our understanding of the charitable company and the environment in which it operates, we identified that the principal risks of non-compliance with laws and regulations related to Church of England Measures, health and safety and employment (including taxation), and we considered the extent to which non-compliance might have a material effect on the financial statements. We also considered those laws and regulations that have a direct impact on the preparation of the financial statements such as the Companies Act 2006, the Charities Act 2011 and Church of England Measures.

We evaluated management’s incentives and opportunities for fraudulent manipulation of the financial statements (including the risk of override of controls), and determined that the principal risks were related to fund accounting and revenue recognition. Audit procedures performed by the engagement team included:

40

Company registered number : 08334622 Charity registration number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the financial statements or non-compliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that compliance with a law or regulation is removed from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, as we will be less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance. The risk is also greater regarding irregularities occurring due to fraud rather than error, as fraud involves intentional concealment, forgery, collusion, omission or misrepresentation.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charitable company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitable company's members those matters we are required to state to them in an Auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charitable company and the charitable company's members, as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Lee Stokes (Senior Statutory Auditor) 10 Queen Street Place For and on behalf of HaysMac LLP, Statutory Auditor London Date: 22 July 2026 EC4R 1AG

41

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

and Income and Expenditure Account FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Note
INCOME FROM:
Donations and legacies
Grants
2
Charitable activities
Special projects
3
School buildings
3
School improvement
3
Courses, conferences and festivals
3
Other income
3
Investment Income
Dividend Income
Rental Properties
TOTAL INCOME
EXPENDITURE ON:
Charitable activities
Diocesan Board of Education Measures
4
Special projects
4
School buildings
4
School Improvement
4
Courses, conferences and festivals
4
Grant-making
4
REConnecting Lincs
4
World Views
4
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
NET (EXPENDITURE)/ INCOME
Net gains/(losses) on investments
9
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
Transfer between funds
13
TOTAL FUNDS BROUGHT FORWARD
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD
13		 General funds
Restricted
Funds
Endowment
Total
£
£
£
135,469
2,500
-
137,969
15,000
-
-
15,000
7,156
-
-
7,156
138,408
-
-
138,408
48,714
-
-
48,714
19,509
-
-
19,509
68,345
26,351
179,961
274,657
44,080
-
-
44,080
476,681
28,851
179,961
685,493
338,805
-
-
338,805
14,448
-
-
14,448
88
-
-
88
164,960
-
-
164,960
76,982
-
-
76,982
-
26,301
-
26,301
-
12,112
-
12,112
-
400
-
400
595,283
38,813
-
634,096
(118,602)
(9,962)
179,961
51,397
47,558
48,374
350,620
446,552
(71,044)
38,412
530,581
497,949
179,961
(179,961)
-
847,248
811,077
5,918,491
7,576,816
956,165
849,489
6,269,111
8,074,765
2025		 2024
Total
£
195,442
15,650
10,628
139,479
63,078
17,738
211,064
42,612
695,691
324,216
16,723
276
156,140
82,353
29,027
-
1,480
610,215
85,476
269,361
354,837
-
7,221,979
7,576,816

The notes on page 45 to 60 form part of these Financial Statements.

Details of comparative figures by fund are disclosed in note 16.

42

Company number : 08334622

Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

BALANCE SHEET

AT 31 DECEMBER 2025

Note
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible fixed assets
8
Investments
9
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
10
Cash at bank
Total current assets
CREDITORS : Amounts falling due within
one year
11
NET CURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES
NET ASSETS
FINANCED BY RESERVES :
General Funds
13
Restricted Funds
13
Endowment
13
TOTAL RESERVES OF THE CHARITY		 2025
Total
£
2,186
7,394,479		 2024
Total
£
2,620
6,893,046
7,396,665
140,145
710,430
850,575
(172,475)
678,100
8,074,765
8,074,765
956,165
849,489
6,269,111
8,074,765		 6,895,666
103,157
740,778
843,935
(162,785)
681,150
7,576,816
7,576,816
847,248
811,077
5,918,491
7,576,816

The notes on page 45 to 60 form part of these Financial Statements

These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small entities.

These financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the directors on 30th June 2026 and signed on their behalf by:

……………………………………………………………….

Dr Daphne Whiteoak, Chair of the Trustees

43

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

2025 2024
£ £ £ £
Cash flows from operating activities: (292,980) 914,411
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchase of investments (100,000) (5,187,449)
Sales of Investments 45,119 3,965,288
Investment income 318,737 253,676
Purchase of property, plant and equipment (1,224) (1,243)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 262,632 (969,728)
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the
reporting period (30,348) (55,317)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of
the reporting period 740,778 796,095
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of
the reporting period 710,430 740,778
Reconciliation of net income to net cash flow from operating activities
2025 2024
£ £
Net income for the reporting period (as
the Statement of Financial Activities) 497,949 354,837
Adjustments for:
Depreciation charges 1,658 2,509
(Gains)/losses on investments (446,552) (269,361)
Investment income (318,737) (253,676)
Increase/(Decrease) in debtors (36,988) 1,257,241
Increase/(Decrease) in creditors 9,690 (177,139)
Net cash (used in ) / provided by operating activities (292,980) 914,411
Analysis of cash and cash equivalents
2025 2024
£ £
Cash in hand 710,430 740,778
Total cash and cash equivalents 710,430 740,778

44

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

1 ACCOUNTING POLICIES

a Basis of accounting and going concern

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102), the Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) Second Edition effective January 2019.

The financial statements are prepared under the historical cost convention.

The trustees consider there are no material uncertainties around the charity's ability to continue as a going concern. Increased dividend income generated from the cash injection from sale proceeds of surplus assets invested for the start of this financial year, cements the longer term financial position of the charity. On the basis of reviewed cash flow forecast and risk planning, the trustees can sign the Charity accounts as a going concern.

b Critical accounting judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty

In the application of the accounting policies, trustees are required to make judgement, estimates, and assumptions about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and underlying assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised based on new information received affecting the value of the asset.

Investment properties are valued on the basis of capitalised rent yields or reference to external market data. Capitalised rents are based on a 5% yield due to the nature and term of the tenancy. The existence of any restrictions on the investment properties and their realisable value, due to their educational background, would be highlighted in the Charity Report produced at that point in time.

c Fund accounting

LDBE holds funds of the following types:

General funds - which are available for any purposes within the LDBE's objects.

Restricted funds - which are subject to specific conditions imposed by the donor.

Endowment funds - which are subject to the conditions of the Uniform Statutory Trust.

d Income

Income is accounted for when the charity is entitled to do so, when it can be valued accurately and when it is probable that it will be received. It is deferred to the extent that it is contractually related to a later accounting period.

Grants in kind are valued at the cost to the grant-making body.

e Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised on an accruals basis and wherever possible charged directly to the activity concerned, including staff costs. Certain support costs are apportioned to activities proportionately with the staff costs charged to that activity.

f School buildings and capital

Note 12 to the Financial Statements explains the capital grants and cost of school projects which are the responsibility of the governing body of the school concerned, have been excluded from these accounts.

45

Company number : 08334622

Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

1 ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued

g Grants payable

Grants are included in the period in which the charity has committed the expenditure and when it can be quantified with reasonable certainty.

h Tangible fixed assets

Expenditure on assets is capitalised if it is over £500 and written off on a straight line basis over the expected useful life of the asset. This varies from 3 to 5 years.

A review for impairment of a fixed asset is carried out if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of any fixed asset may not be recoverable.

i Financial instruments

Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at amortised with the exception of investments which are held at fair value. Financial assets held amortised cost comprise cash at bank and in hand, together with trade and other debtors. A specific provision is made, if required, for debts for where recoverability is in doubt. Cash at bank and in hand is defined as all cash held in instant access bank accounts and used as working capital. Financial liabilities held at amortised cost comprise all creditors except social security and other taxes and provisions.

Debtors

Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.

Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank and cash in hand includes cash and short term highly liquid investments.

Creditors and provisions

Creditors and provisions are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.

j Investments

Investments are stated in the balance sheet at their fair value. All movements in value arising from investment charges and revaluations are included in the Statement of Financial Activities. Investment properties valuation, a tenant in residence, are calculated based on the average annual rent for the lease term. The average annual represents a 5% capital yield applied to all properties. The trustees have agreed this method after discussions and contributions with professionals within this field. A full red book estate valuation has been discussed by trustees, but considering the cost, the uniqueness of the properties, finding a reliable comparison or one recently sold and the longer terms plans, the average annual rent representing an agreed percentage of a property's valuation continues to be the approach the directors have adopted.

The assets held within the investment portfolio were aligned to the total return investment strategy within one multi asset fund. The dividends earned have remained at a consistent level since purchased that aids the cash flow and forecasting . The capital growth is also available to trustees where parameters have been agreed a set percentage per annum can be drawn down for specific purposes if required.

46

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

2
3		 General
funds
Restricted
Funds
Endowment
Total
£
£
£
£
INCOME FROM GRANTS
Other grants
135,469
2,500
-
137,969
135,469
2,500
-
137,969
INCOME FROM ACTIVITIES
All income from activities is attributable to the charity's general funds.
General
funds
Restricted
Funds
Endowment
Total
£
£
£
£
Special projects
Staff release fees and trust work
15,000
-
-
15,000
School buildings
Fees for administrative support
7,156
-
-
7,156
School improvement
Service level agreement and fees
138,408
-
-
138,408
Courses, conferences and festivals
Course fees and festival attendance
48,714
-
-
48,714
Other income
Other income
19,509
-
-
19,509
228,787
-
-
228,787
2025
2025		 2024
Total
£
195,442
195,442
2024
Total
£
15,650
10,628
139,479
63,078
17,738
246,573

47

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

4 COSTS OF CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES

Diocesan Board of Education Measures
Special projects
School buildings
School improvement
Courses, conferences and festivals
Grant-making
REConnecting Lincs
World Views		 Staffing
Other
direct costs
Support
costs
Grants
2025
Total
£
£
£
£
£
245,891
3,186
89,728
-
338,805
12,945
-
1,503
-
14,448
-
-
88
-
88
156,653
-
8,307
-
164,960
56,774
16,282
3,926
-
76,982
-
-
-
26,301
26,301
-
-
-
12,112
12,112
400
-
-
-
400
472,663
19,468
103,552
38,413
634,096		 2024
Total
£
324,216
16,723
276
156,140
82,353
29,027
-
1,480
610,215

The Grant-making costs are to CofE schools to enhance and promote their Christian ethos. Further details can be found on page 24 of the Trustee Report under Closed School General Purpose heading.

The REConnecting Lincs is the continuation of the Empowering Voices project, delivered by a production company, under the title Working Beyond Schools. Exploring Worldview projects completed in 2025. Details of both can be found on page 19 of the Trustee Report.

Diocesan Board of Education Measures
Special projects
School buildings
School improvement
Courses, conferences and festivals
Grant-making
REConnecting Lincs
World Views		 Staffing
Other
direct costs
Support
costs
Grants
2024
Total
£
£
£
£
£
233,738
2,455
88,023
-
324,216
16,713
-
10
-
16,723
-
-
276
-
276
146,640
-
9,500
-
156,140
64,269
16,070
2,014
-
82,353
-
-
-
29,027
29,027
-
-
-
-
-
1,000
-
-
480
1,480
462,360
18,525
99,823
29,507
610,215

5 SUPPORT COSTS

SUPPORT COSTS
Diocesan Board of Education Measures
Special projects
School buildings
School improvement
Courses, conferences and festivals		 2025
£
89,728
1,503
88
8,307
3,926
103,552		 2024
£
88,023
10
276
9,500
2,014
99,823

48

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

2025 2024
£ £
6 NET INCOME BEFORE TRANSFERS
Net income is stated after
Depreciation 1,658 2,509
Audit fees (incl, VAT) 25,440 29,040

Board members were not entitled to, and did not receive any remuneration in their capacity as trustees in the year ended 31 December 2025 (2024 - £nil).

£265 travel expenses were claimed by two trustees to attend in person board meetings, some head teacher recruitment along with attending feedback sessions for Ofsted & SIAMS (2024 - £456 for five trustees).

7 STAFF COSTS

FF COSTS
Wages and salaries
Social Security
Pension
Other staff costs		 2025
£
378,186
48,579
43,547
2,351
472,663		 2024
£
364,174
40,423
40,190
17,573
462,360

The average number of people employed during the year were 8 ( 2024 : 8)

Remuneration and benefits received by key management personnel, Diocesan Director of Education and the Assistant Director, including employers national insurance and pension contributions amounted to £180,394 (2024 ; £173,072)

The number of staff whose emoluments amounting to more than £60,000 were as follows

2025 2024
Number Number
£60,000 - £70,000 1 1
£70,000 - £80,000 - -
£80,000 - £90,000 1 1

49

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

8 TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
Fixtures, fittings and equipment
Cost at 1 January 2025
Additions in year
Disposals in year
Cost at 31 December 2025
Accumulated depreciation at 1 January 2025
Charge for in year
Disposals in year
Accumulated depreciation at 31 December 2025
Net book value at 31 December 2025
Net book value at 31 December 2024		 2025
£
7,576
1,224
(3,141)
5,659
4,956
1,658
(3,141)
3,473
2,186
2,620

9 INVESTMENTS

INVESTMENTS
Brought forward
Additions
Disposals
Investment Gains / ( Losses )
Carried forward
Historical cost of investments		 £
£
£
6,099,567
793,479
6,893,046
100,000
-
100,000
(15,119)
(30,000)
(45,119)
427,532
19,020
446,552
6,611,980
782,499
7,394,479
5,872,253
763,479
6,635,732
2025
Listed
investments
Investment
property
Total		 2024
£
5,401,524
5,187,449
(3,965,288)
269,361
Total
6,893,046
6,498,407

All listed investments in 2025 are held within Multi Asset funds (2024, £6,099,567)

50

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

10 DEBTORS
Trade debtors
Amounts owed by related parties
Prepayments and accrued income
11 CREDITORS - amounts due within one year
Trade creditors
Amounts owed to related parties
Deferred income
Other creditors and accrued expenses		 2025
£
37,499
4,020
98,626
140,145
2025
£
833
6,038
103,007
62,597
172,475		 2024
£
18,845
2,626
81,686
103,157
2024
£
1,809
1,143
100,074
59,759
162,785

Deferred income is represented by eight months worth of subscriptions, £63k for the Service Level Agreement (SLA), that CofE schools within LDBE geographical area buy into each year. The subscriptions runs from the start of the academic year on 01 September, ending on 31 August the following year. The key aims of the SLA is, "living out our diocesan vision for education," and "the DBE team of highly experienced practitioners is able to provide a wide range of quality services and exciting opportunities to help schools meet current and emerging needs of a constantly changing education landscape."

LDBE has provided the opportunity to schools to purchase a three year RE syllabus for primary school children. The syllabus is available and offered to schools beyond the Lincolnshire boundaries. The syllabus is accessed by purchasing an annual subscription per annum of each year of the syllabus. At the end of December 2025, £6k is shown as deferred income for the remainder of the 2025/26 academic year that finishes at the end of August 2026.

£20k is for property rent paid in advance and £8k for delivering a different RE syllabus from the one mentioned above for a local authority within Lincolnshire which runs over the academic as opposed to financial year.

The balance comprises courses and training delivered over a number of session of the academic year where some are invoiced in advance or at the request of the delegate in advance.

All of the deferred income from 2024 has now been recognised in the 2025 accounts.

51

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

12 SCHOOL BUILDINGS AND CAPITAL PROJECTS

School buildings partnership scheme

The Charity assists Voluntary Aided (VA) schools with capital projects. It acts as a banker for the DfE / Education Skills Funding Agency in receiving the funding and settling contractors invoices for approved projects on their behalf. 2026 is the seventh year of the School Condition Allocation (SCA) funding. LDBE is the lead partner with the Diocese of Sheffield. LDBE receives the funding allocation for both organisation which is allocated according to need identified in the conditional surveys for all VA schools across both Dioceses.

This is a significant activity of the charity but the capital projects are not reflected in the Statement of Financial Activities as the contracting party is the School's Governing Body and not LDBE.

A summary of transactions during the year is set out below:

ummary of transactions during the year is set out below:
School Governors' contribution
Project expenditure
Department for Education capital grants		 2025
£
644,542
55,534
700,076
700,076		 2024
£
846,397
56,569
902,966
902,966

At the year end, LDBE held the following assets and liabilities for ongoing projects at Voluntary Aided (VA) schools. The assets and liabilities do not form part of the LDBE's accounts, as described below.

Debtors and accrued income
Cash at bank
Creditors and deferred income		 2025
£
81,545
531,216
(612,761)
-		 2024
£
81,140
451,099
(532,239)
-

52

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

13 FUNDS OF THE CHARITY

Summary of the activities of the funds of the charity in the year:

Unrestricted Funds
General funds
Restricted Funds
Closed School Fund
REConnecting Lincs
World View Project
Endowment
Uniform Statutory Trust
Unapplied Total Return
Grand Total All Funds
Unrestricted Funds
General funds
Restricted Funds
Closed School Fund
REConnecting Lincs
World View Project
Endowment
Uniform Statutory Trust
Unapplied Total Return
Grand Total All Funds		 Balance at
01/01/2025
Unapplied
Total Return
Income
Expenditure
Investment
gains/(losses)
Transfers
£
£
£
£
£
£
847,248
-
476,681
(595,283)
47,558
179,961
795,376
-
26,351
(26,301)
48,374
-
14,463
-
2,500
(12,112)
-
-
1,238
-
-
(400)
-
-
811,077
-
28,851
(38,813)
48,374
-
4,671,783
-
-
-
188,418
-
1,246,708
-
179,961
-
162,202
(179,961)
5,918,491
-
179,961
-
350,620
(179,961)
7,576,816
-
685,493
(634,096)
446,552
-
Balance at
01/01/2024
Unapplied
Total Return
Income
Expenditure
Investment
Losses
Transfers
£
£
£
£
£
£
795,011
-
478,516
(579,708)
32,506
120,923
770,711
-
26,482
(29,027)
27,210
-
11,963
-
2,500
-
-
-
1,468
-
1,250
(1,480)
-
-
784,142
-
30,232
(30,507)
27,210
-
4,462,910
-
66,020
-
142,853
-
1,179,916
-
120,923
-
66,792
(120,923)
5,642,826
-
186,943
-
209,645
(120,923)
7,221,979
-
695,691
(610,215)
269,361
-		 Balance at
31/12/2025
£
956,165
843,800
4,851
838
849,489
4,860,201
1,408,910
6,269,111
8,074,765
Balance at
31/12/2024
£
847,248
795,376
14,463
1,238
811,077
4,671,783
1,246,708
5,918,491
7,576,816

53

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

13 FUNDS OF THE CHARITY continued

Closed School Fund

This fund is for educational purposes in the Diocese of Lincoln. Activities are required to develop the Christian character of the school. The fund operates by making grants. At 31 December 2025 the fund included investment assets of £743,210 (2024: £698,136), with the balance within net current assets.

REConnecting Lincs

The project sought and was granted a final tranche of funding to complete the full suite of eight podcasts and associated education packs. These continue to support pupils to engage with the lived reality of religious and nonreligious worldviews in the RE Classroom. The balance will fund ongoing costs to maintain the work completed as part of the project remains accessible to all.

Religion and Worldviews Project

The project is funded through the Templeton Foundation and published its final outcome in May 2024. It has a significant impact, including on the recently published National Content Standard for Religious Education. The project completed in 2025.

Uniform Statutory Trust

Dividends from the Uniform Statutory Trust investment are a major source of income to LDBE. The dividends are a key component of LDBE annual income to plan and deliver activities in line with the objectives of the charity. The portfolio is managed by investment managers on behalf of LDBE with clear strategy on return and risk.

The year end closing balance of the fund included investment assets of £4,860,201 (2024, £4,671,783).

The Endowment is invested in one multi asset fund aligned to charities having adopted total return accounting. Any proposals to draw down funds from the UTR require trustees approval within the agreed parameters. Any Endowment gains and losses are allocated between the UST and the UTR in direct proportion to the original number of units purchased. No indexation is applied to the UTR only the direct proportion of any gains or losses recorded in a financial year based on the price per unit of the fund at the end of the financial year.

54

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

13 FUNDS OF THE CHARITY continued

Net Asset by Fund - 2025

General
funds		 Restricted
Funds		 Endowment Total
£ £ £ £
Tangible fixed assets 2,186 - - 2,186
Investments 731,269 743,210 5,920,000 7,394,479
Current assets 378,570 106,814 364,034 849,418
Current liabilities (155,860) (535) (14,923) (171,318)
Total Net Assets by Fund 956,165 849,489 6,269,111 8,074,765

Net Asset by Fund - 2024

Net Asset by Fund - 2024
General
funds		 Restricted
Funds		 Endowment Total
£ £ £ £
Tangible fixed assets 2,620 - - 2,620
Investments 683,711 698,136 5,511,199 6,893,046
Current assets 308,252 113,468 422,215 843,935
Current liabilities (147,335) (527) (14,923) (162,785)
Total Net Assets by Fund 847,248 811,077 5,918,491 7,576,816

Summary of assets by fund 2025

Unrestricted Funds
General
Restricted Funds
Closed School Fund
REConnecting Lincs
World View
Total Restricted Funds
Permanent Endowment
Uniform Statutory Trust
Unapplied Total Return
Total Endowment Funds
Grand Total All Funds		 Tangible
Investments Current Assets
exc cash
Cash
Current
Liabilities
Long
Term
Liabilities
Net
Assets
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
Fixed Assets
Creditors
2,186
731,269
131,873
246,697
155,860
-
956,165
-
743,210
7,115
94,011
535
843,801
-
-
-
4,850
-
4,850
-
-
-
838
-
838
-
743,210
7,115
99,699
535
-
849,489
-
4,511,090
-
364,034
14,923
4,860,201
1,408,910
1,408,910
-
5,920,000
-
364,034
14,923
-
6,269,111
2,186
7,394,479
138,988
710,430
171,318
-
8,074,765

55

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

13 FUNDS OF THE CHARITY continued

Summary of assets by fund 2024

Unrestricted Funds
General
Restricted Funds
Closed School Fund
REConnecting Lincs
World View
Total Restricted Funds
Permanent Endowment
Uniform Statutory Trust
Unapplied Total Return
Total Endowment Funds
Grand Total All Funds		 Tangible
Investments Current Assets
exc cash
Cash
Current
Liabilities
Long
Term
Liabilities
Net
Assets
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
Fixed Assets
Creditors
2,620
683,711
96,010
212,242
147,335
-
847,248
-
698,136
7,147
90,620
527
795,376
-
-
-
14,463
-
14,463
-
-
-
1,238
-
1,238
-
698,136
7,147
106,321
527
-
811,077
-
4,264,491
-
422,215
14,923
4,671,783
1,246,708
1,246,708
-
5,511,199
-
422,215
14,923
-
5,918,491
2,620
6,893,046
103,157
740,778
162,785
-
7,576,816

56

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

14 RELATED PARTIES

LDBE has corporate membership representation on all five multi academy trusts (MAT) and eight single academy trusts (SAT) within the geographical boundaries of the Lincoln Diocese throughout the year. The corporate member is either a trustee of employee of LDBE. The role of a corporate member is attending the annual general meeting. The day to day decisions are taken by the by the Board of Directors that does not include the corporate members.

LDBE has a director representation on one of the MAT's. The directors are appointed by the corporate members. The director role on MAT has a vote along with the other ten directors. The position of director is not one of significant influence or control.

FRS102 para 33.4 (a) definition describes the role of a corporate member and is not a related party simply where two entities have a director of member of key management personnel in common.

Under para 33.4 (d) it is not a related party where there is significant business , merely by virtue of the resulting economic dependence.

The LDBE MAT strategy document quotes the MAT Trust Board new Articles of Association (5s) that enables the MAT Trust Board to enter into agreements that the diocese requires in order to support church schools within the MAT. This is not regarded as a related party transaction as the LDBE is the appropriate religious authority.

LDTBF

Two directors of the company are also directors of the Lincoln Diocesan Trust and Board of Finance at the end of the financial year (LDTBF) (2024 - two). The Lincoln Diocesan Board of Education (LDBE) was established to fulfil the requirements of LDTBF under the Measure. LDBE receives an annual grant, rents space from the head office of LDTBF, pays a service charge and recharge for ICT infrastructure support whilst operating a hybrid working model.

Accordingly LDTBF is a related party for LDBE. Transactions during the year were as follows:

Note
Other grants
Grant
2
Grants received from LDTBF		 General
Fund
Restricted
Fund
2025
£
£
£
115,469
-
115,469
115,469
-
115,469		 2024
£
105,672
105,672

57

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

14 RELATED PARTIES continued

Other transactions with LDTBF General
Fund		 Restricted
Fund		 2025 2024
£ £ £ £
Sales to LDTBF - - - -
Purchases from LDTBF 32,018 - 32,018 29,483
Balance owed by LDBE at 31 December 6,038 - 6,038 513

Schools

Several LDBE Trustees held the position of a school governor during 2025. These positions are seen as one of governance as opposed to a related party. The purposes of transparency, the names of the schools and the total of transactions with them during the year are noted below:

ansactions with them during the year are noted below:
2025 2024
Ancaster CoE School Y Y
Barkston & Syston CoE Primary Y Y
Barnetby & Kirmington Federation Y N
Brant Broughton CoE Primary Y N
Coleby CoE Primary Y N
Dunholme St Chad CoE Primary N Y
Denton & Harlaxton Federation Y Y
Fiskerton CoE Primary School N Y
Great Ponton CoE Y Y
Kirkby-on-Bain CoE Primary Y Y
Lincoln St Faiths & St Martins CoE Junior School Y Y
Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Horncastle Y Y
Rauceby CoE School Y Y
Ropsley CoE Primary N Y
Saxilby CoE Primary School Y Y
Spalding Grammar School N Y
Stamford St Georges CoE Primary Y N
St Gilberts CoE Primary, Stamford N Y
St Thomas' Primary Academy Y Y
The St Lawrence Academy Y Y
Trent View College, Scunthorpe Y Y
Tydd St Mary CoE Primary School Y Y
Weston Hills CoE Primary School Y Y
Westwoodside Primary Academy Y Y
William Hildyard Market Deeping Y Y
Wootton St Andrews CoE Primary Y N
Wyberton Primary Academy Y Y

58

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

14 RELATED PARTIES continued

2025 2024
£ £
Sales to schools 34,274 33,925
Balance owed to LDBE at 31 December 4,020 2,627
Purchases and payments to schools 512 1,850
Balance owed by LDBE at 31 December - -

The General Funds throughout the presentation of the accounts represent the day to day activities of the charity in delivering its objectives.

Restricted Funds are represented by;

Details around these specific funds are shown in Note 13.

59

Company number : 08334622 Charity number : 1151733

LINCOLN DIOCESAN BOARD OF EDUCATION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

16

FUNDS OF THE CHARITY continued - STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES year end 31 DECEMBER 2024

Note
INCOME FROM:
Donations and legacies
Grants
2
Charitable activities
Special projects
3
School buildings
3
School improvement
3
Courses, conferences and festivals
3
Other income
3
Investment Income
Dividend Income
Rental Properties
TOTAL INCOME
EXPENDITURE ON:
Charitable activities
Diocesan Board of Education Measures
4
Special projects
4
School buildings
4
School Improvement
4
Courses, conferences and festivals
4
Grant-making
4
Multi Faith Projects
4
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
NET (EXPENDITURE)/ INCOME
Net gains/(losses) on investments
9
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
Transfer between funds
13
TOTAL FUNDS BROUGHT FORWARD
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD
13		 General funds
Restricted
Funds
Endowment
Total
£
£
£
125,672
3,750
66,020
195,442
15,650
-
-
15,650
10,628
-
-
10,628
139,479
-
-
139,479
63,078
-
-
63,078
17,738
-
-
17,738
63,659
26,482
120,923
211,064
42,612
-
-
42,612
478,516
30,232
186,943
695,691
324,216
-
-
324,216
16,723
-
-
16,723
276
-
-
276
156,140
-
-
156,140
82,353
-
-
82,353
-
29,027
-
29,027
-
1,480
-
1,480
579,708
30,507
-
610,215
(101,192)
(275)
186,943
85,476
32,506
27,210
209,645
269,361
(68,686)
26,935
396,588
354,837
120,923
(120,923)
-
795,011
784,142
5,642,826
7,221,979
847,248
811,077
5,918,491
7,576,816

60