Academy trusts face tighter procurement requirements from 1 October 2026

The new Academy Trust Handbook places greater emphasis on how trusts make and record purchasing decisions.

Academy trusts must be able to demonstrate:

• value for money
• appropriate competition
• compliance with procurement rules and thresholds
• suitable supplier due diligence
• consideration of relevant Department for Education purchasing opportunities
• a clear record of how the final decision was reached

This should not simply encourage schools to choose the lowest initial price. Genuine value for money means considering durability, maintenance, environmental impact and the total cost over the product’s working life.

That is particularly relevant when replacing classroom furniture.

If table frames remain sound, replacing only the damaged table tops can cost considerably less than buying complete new tables. It also reduces waste, avoids disposing of usable steel frames and can allow a classroom to be refurbished with minimal disruption.

SaveYourLegs supplies replacement classroom table tops in a range of sizes, finishes and edge options. We can provide clear quotations and product information to help schools and academy trusts compare replacement with complete furniture renewal—and document why their chosen approach represents good value.

The new requirements take effect on 1 October 2026.

Read the official guidance:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/academy-trust-handbook/academy-trust-handbook-2026-effective-from-1-october-2026

Find out more about replacing classroom table tops:
https://saveyourlegs.uk/collections/replacement-classroom-table-tops