ISBA BURSARCAST

This week’s ISBA Bursarcast brings you a rapid newsbeat on the latest operational and regulatory developments affecting independent schools—focused on what bursars and senior leaders need to know now.We cover tightened expectations on mobile phone policies, forthcoming statutory allergy guidance, continued cyber-fraud risks, budget planning pressures for catering, and key ISBA deadlines and events, including the Annual Conference.This episode is designed for time-poor professionals who want clarity, context and practical next steps—without wading through long documents.What You’ll LearnWhat the updated Department for Education guidance on mobile phones means in practice from April 2026How Ofsted will factor phone policies into behaviour judgementsWhat’s coming in new statutory allergy guidance—and how schools should prepare nowThe scale of fee-payment scams highlighted by IRIS Education researchWhy catering budgets for 2026–27 need to plan for sustained inflation, based on Independent Schools Catering Consultancy benchmarksWhy participation in ISBA’s Data Navigator benchmarking with Barnett Waddingham mattersKey February and spring-term dates bursars shouldn’t missResources mentionedDfE: Mobile phones in schools — updated guidanceISBA allergy policy template and webinar (4 March)IRIS Education: Protect your school – a practical approach to cybersecurityISCC catering budget benchmarks for 2026–27ISBA Data Navigator (data entry deadline: 12 February 2026)ISBA Annual Conference 2026 — bookings open with early-bird ratesRegional Group meetings and Newly Appointed Bursars programme(Full links available via the ISBA Weekly Bulletin and member resources.)Subscribe & Follow ISBA Bursarcast New episodes every Friday at 4pm. Follow on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or Acast to stay informed on the latest in independent school operations.Email: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this second part of our deep-dive with Jo Hall and Hayden Hibbert from allmanhall, we unpack how a detailed partnership with Royal Russell School led to measurable cost savings and operational improvements in their in-house catering.This episode goes beyond theory—focusing on what bursars, finance leads, and catering managers can actually do to manage budgets, improve quality, and build long-term value through catering provision.Plus, we round off the episode with this week’s ISBA news and insights. What You’ll LearnHow to benchmark supplier pricing effectivelyThe impact of inventory management tech like Saffron ControlPractical examples of sustainability in school cateringThe strategic role of menu design and community feedbackWhat key questions bursars should ask about catering performance and contractsResources mentioned:Foodsight magazine: https://issuu.com/allmanhall/docs/foodsight_-_independent_education_january_2026Hero Recipes: https://issuu.com/allmanhall/stacks/1739dd65f7af4aab8ec6e802ae9b3484Independent Education brochure: https://issuu.com/allmanhall/docs/digital_independent_education_4pp_2025-26Royal Russell case study: https://youtu.be/ou8Cb6L6u5s?si=PxHPE8w6SDq4GDEhallmanhall website: https://allmanhall.co.uk/ Subscribe & FollowNew episodes every Friday at 4pm. Follow to stay informed on the latest in independent school operations.Email: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s ISBA Bursarcast brings you a focused newsbeat on staff accommodation, charity accounting reform, safeguarding consultation changes, restrictive intervention duties and key compliance pressures—centred on what bursars and senior leaders need to know now.We cover the new staff accommodation advice ahead of the Renters’ Rights Act changes coming into force from 1 May, the operational implications of Charities SORP 2026, the latest proposed changes in the KCSIE 2026 consultation, and the new legal duties now in force on recording and reporting seclusion and restraint.This episode is designed for time-poor professionals who want clarity, context and practical next steps—without wading through long guidance notes and technical updates.What You’ll Learn What the new staff accommodation guidance means for schools with employees living on site, and why housing arrangements now need active review How Charities SORP 2026 could affect reserves, lease treatment, income recognition, disclosures and covenant discussions What the proposed KCSIE 2026 changes could mean for staff reading requirements, safeguarding policy, DSL cover, mental health, serious violence and AI-related risks Why do the new seclusion and restraint recording duties now need to be live in school systems and parent communication processes What the latest DfE reminder means for schools considering material change applications for September 2026 Why asbestos management, first aid supply checks and workplace stress prevention remain live operational issues What members can expect from Wednesday at the ISBA Annual Conference, including keynote sessions from Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock and Susannah StreeterResources Mentioned ISBA Reference Library: Staff Accommodation Advice for Schools in England The new Charities SORP 2026 and ISBA webinar: The New Charities SORP Unpacked DfE consultation on Keeping Children Safe in Education 2026 DfE guidance on restrictive interventions, including use of reasonable force, in schools Department for Education guidance on independent schools applying to make a material change HSE and DfE asbestos management resources for schools ISBA Annual Conference 2026 programme and booking information(Full details and links are available via the ISBA Weekly Bulletin and member resources.)Subscribe & Follow ISBA BursarcastNew episodes every Friday at 4pm.Follow on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or Acast to stay informed on the latest in independent school operations.Email: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s ISBA Bursarcast covers the operational issues UK independent schools need on their radar now, followed by a guest discussion on school marketing, admissions strategy and pupil recruitment.In this episodeInspection readiness: Mobile phone guidanceRestrictive interventions from 1 April 2026Key implications for policy, training and oversightCompanies House cyber risk: Why schools should check company recordsRisks for governors, trustees and senior leadersVAT update: Final Bursar’s Guide to VATPTA purchases and VAT recovery watchpointsFinance systems: Low satisfaction, weak reporting and integration issuesWhy this matters for workload, control and decision-makingDfE round-up: Data protection toolkit updatesKCSIE consultationData retention linked to the Grooming Gangs InquiryGuest discussionWe speak to James about School Scout and what it says about the future of independent school marketing.They explore:how families search for and compare schoolswhy location and travel time matterwhat schools can learn from pre-inquiry behaviourwhy insight and personalisation may matter more than bigger budgetshow AI could shape admissions and parent engagementWhy it mattersA practical episode for bursars, finance leads, operations teams and senior leaders focused on compliance, inspection, cyber awareness, systems, and smarter pupil recruitment.Resources mentionedISBA Reference LibraryIncludes the final Bursar’s Guide to VAT, the updated Holiday/Summer Lets Agreement, recorded webinars, and member guidance materials.ISBA Advice and Guidance teamFor school-specific follow-up questions on the issues covered in the bulletin.Companies House guidanceIncludes the update on the WebFiling security issue and the closure of the online accounts and Company Tax Return service from 31 March 2026.DfE guidance and consultationsIncluding the updated data protection in schools toolkit, the Keeping Children Safe in Education consultation, and consultation on support for pupils with medical conditions.The CircuitNational defibrillator database for checking whether a school’s defibrillator is visible to ambulance services and marked rescue ready.UKHSA and NHS meningitis informationFor schools and families following the Kent and Medway meningococcal disease outbreak updates.VWV article and guidance referencesIncluding the copyright infringement reminder and article on restrictive interventions.ISBA Annual Conference 202611–13 May 2026, ICC Wales.More from School Scout https://schoolscout.uk/james.dobson@schoolscout.ukSubscribe & FollowNew episodes every Friday at 4pm on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and AcastEmail: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s ISBA Bursarcast looks at rising fee arrears in independent schools — and what bursars and finance teams can do to respond earlier, more consistently, and with greater confidence.We speak to Richard Monan from Redwood Collections about what schools are seeing on the ground, including debts that are becoming older, larger and harder to recover.In this episodeWhy fee arrears are becoming more difficult to manageHow post-VAT pressure is affecting parent debt and school decisionsWhy good arrears management starts with process and consistencyThe value of a structured 7 / 14 / 21-day follow-up cycleWhy schools should not wait too long before escalating or seeking specialist supportCommon dispute areas, including fees in lieu of notice and separated parentsThe risk of losing credibility by setting timelines and not following throughHow to balance fair treatment, compassion and consistencyWhy governors should keep sight of cost versus recoveryRedwood’s wider support, including credit management, Parent Check Plus, and options for historic debt portfoliosAlso in this week’s sector updatesISBA’s Spring Term Sector Update recording is now availableKey changes on restrictive interventions, mobile phone policy, employment law and TPS budgetingA preview of ISBA Annual Conference 2026Updated Scottish employment contract templatesA useful read on the updated Charity Governance CodeCurrent bursar vacancies at Stover School and St Cedd’s SchoolAdvice on verifying referencesAn inspection reminder on supply staff and the SCRThe latest update on the meningitis outbreak in KentA call for feedback on the template safeguarding policyThe extended Stickman Pupil Recruitment Risk CheckA free ACAS neurodiversity webinarUpdates to Working Together to Safeguard ChildrenThe next NABs programme and upcoming ISBA webinarsResources mentioned (Members only)ISBA Weekly Bulletin 10ISBA Reference LibraryISBA Spring Term Sector UpdateISBA Annual Conference 2026 — 11–13 May, ICC WalesISBA Safer Recruitment PackMore from Redwood Collections: https://www.redwoodcollections.com/Subscribe & FollowNew episodes every Friday at 4pm on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Acast.Email: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s ISBA Bursarcast asks a practical question for bursars and estates leaders: if schools are building again, what are they building for — and what actually counts as value now?Karl Stokes from TG Escapes joins us to talk about renewed enquiry levels, the rise of early years, sports and wellbeing spaces, and why schools are taking a more considered approach to sustainability, design and whole-life cost.Alongside the feature, we deliver a short newsbeat from the latest ISBA bulletin, including: bookings for ISBA Annual Conference 2026 at ICC Wales from 11–13 May, updated DfE generative AI product safety standards, current bursar recruitment opportunities, a VAT reminder on school photographer commission, this week’s inspection tip on provision of information, the upcoming data protection webinar on 20 March, fresh sector commentary on SEND reform, new medical conditions and allergy guidance expected from September 2026, the extended Pupil Recruitment Risk Check offer, updated Prevent principles, and a reminder on HMRC’s “don’t get caught out” campaign on staff expense claims.What You’ll LearnWhy independent school building enquiries appear to have picked up againWhich facilities are schools prioritising most right nowWhy wellbeing and pastoral spaces are becoming a more prominent part of the estates conversationWhat panelised construction is — and how it differs from “modular boxes”How to think about school building value beyond the initial capital spendWhy are sustainability expectations rising in school estate projectsWhy planning and consultation may require longer lead times than expectedThis week’s key operational headlines from the ISBA bulletinResources MentionedISBA Annual Conference 2026, 11–13 May 2026, ICC WalesISBA webinars on SEND, data protection, Charities SORP, CDC pensions, and KCSIEISBA Reference Library and multimedia recordingsDfE Generative AI Product Safety StandardsHMRC guidance on VAT and school photographer commissionHome Office key principles of PreventDraft guidance on supporting children and young people with medical conditions and allergyTG Escapes Subscribe & FollowNew episodes every Friday at 4pm on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Acast.Email: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s ISBA Bursarcast looks at how independent schools are rethinking uniform and sportswear — with Tim James from Schoolblazer — as budgets tighten and parents become more value-conscious.Tim describes a challenging year, driven by VAT changes and a sharper focus on pricing. His headline: parents will still pay for quality, but they increasingly resent paying for items that are rarely worn.In response, schools are moving towards multi-use garments — such as reversible rugby tops and puffer jackets — and taking a harder look at how lists are specified and communicated.We also explore how uniform design is evolving, including a trend toward aligning boys’ and girls’ uniforms in appearance and cost (while still designing appropriately for each), and the growing influence of high-street fashion, including quarter-zip styles.Sportswear — around half of School Blazers’ business — is positioned as a key lever for participation and wellbeing, especially amid concerns about sedentary, body-conscious pupils. Tim highlights kit developments, including new leggings, a new sports bra, and more choices in girls’ kit.Operationally, Tim shares what “good” looks like from a supplier perspective: tight KPIs on stock, delivery and returns, plus a practical bursar reminder — review termination clauses early, not when you’re already under pressure. We also touch on international growth and what to expect at the ISBA Conference (11–13 May, ICC Wales).Alongside the feature, we deliver a short newsbeat from Weekly Bulletin 8 (05 Mar 2026), including: ISBA’s new Chief Executive (from 01 May 2026), new guidance on safe and responsible streaming, VAT risks around bursary grant arrangements, the 31 Mar 2026 action deadline to begin business rates appeals for potential backdated savings, advice to refund (not transfer) unused Fees in Advance, a reminder on prohibition from teaching checks, and cautious budgeting guidance on TPS.What You’ll LearnHow to pressure-test uniform lists for value without undermining qualityWhy multi-use items are rising — and how they can reduce friction with parentsWhat’s changing in boys’/girls’ uniform alignment and sports kit choiceSupplier KPIs bursars should ask for: stock, delivery performance, returnsContract basics: why termination clauses need an early reviewThis week’s key operational actions from ISBA’s bulletinResources MentionedISBA Weekly Bulletin 8 (05 Mar 2026)ISBA Reference Library: Safe, Responsible Streaming guidance; VAT bursary grants note; TPS briefing; trackers (member-only)ISBA Annual Conference: 11–13 May 2026, ICC WalesGOV.UK: Check a teacher’s record (prohibition from teaching)DfE consultation: supporting pupils with medical conditions at schoolSchoolBlazer website https://www.schoolblazer.com/Subscribe & Follow: New episodes every Friday at 4pm on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Acast.Email: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s ISBA Bursarcast looks at the changing shape of school transport in the independent sector — with Dominic Kalantary from Vectare — ahead of the ISBA Conference (11–13 May at ICC Wales), where Vectare is one of the headline sponsors.We explore key market trends, including widening catchments, express and park-and-ride style routes designed to compete with car travel, and a notable shift from externally operated services to in-house fleets for cost, control and branding benefits — including an example of a school moving quickly to internal vehicles.Alongside the feature, we also deliver a short newsbeat covering the week’s key operational headlines, including SEND reform consultation, VAT guidance consolidation, regional meetings, mobile phone policy expectations, inspection readiness for RAAC/cladding, and the KCSIE consultation.This episode is designed for time-poor professionals who want clarity, context and practical next steps — especially those responsible for budgeting, compliance, estates operations and stakeholder communications.What You’ll LearnWhy transport spend is back under the microscope — and what the “tale of two halves” means for planning and procurementThe trend towards wider catchments and express / park-and-ride routes — and how this changes cost and service designThe pros and trade-offs of moving from outsourced provision to an in-house fleet — including control, consistency and brand visibilityWhy mid-day trips can quietly inflate costs — and how routinely quoting each trip can drive savingsWhat “active compliance management” looks like for fleets — and why updates such as DVSA roadworthiness guidance matterHow transport tech is evolving: responsible AI for insight, operational integrations (including OpenApply) and WhatsApp notificationsA quick scan of this week’s headlines: SEND reform (England), VAT guidance, regional meetings, mobile phones, parent contracts, RAAC/cladding inspection readiness, and KCSIE consultationResources MentionedISBA Weekly Bulletin 7 (26 Feb 2026) — key operational headlinesISBA Reference Library — consolidated VAT guidance (Bursar’s Guide to VAT + appendices), Parent Contract FAQs, asbestos/estates resources, previous bulletins and webinar recordings (member-only)DfE consultation: SEND reform proposals (England) (as referenced in the bulletin)DfE guidance: Mobile phones in schools (non-statutory)KCSIE consultation: Keeping Children Safe in Education — 2026 proposed revisions (England) (as referenced in the bulletin)DVSA roadworthiness guidance updates (as referenced in discussion)ISBA Conference: 11–13 May 2026, ICC WalesVectare Website Subscribe & FollowISBA BursarcastNew episodes every Friday at 4pm.Follow on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or Acast to stay informed on the latest in independent school operationsEmail: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s ISBA Bursarcast is led by a practical deep-dive on what a high-quality, safe and effective nursing service looks like in independent schools — with Jane Graham, an experienced paediatric nurse and independent school medical lead.Jane explains why registered nurses are not simply “highly qualified first aiders”, and what robust school nursing governance looks like day-to-day: medicines management, confidentiality, safeguarding, record-keeping, clinical space, and the line management and clinical supervision needed to keep pupils safe — especially where nurses are lone-working.Alongside the feature, we also deliver a short newsbeat covering the week’s key operational headlines, including KCSIE consultation, measles/infectious disease resources, mobile phone policy and inspection readiness, and Charities SORP changes.This episode is designed for time-poor professionals who want clarity, context and practical next steps — especially those responsible for risk, compliance and pupil wellbeing provision.What You’ll LearnWhy a registered nurse’s role in school goes well beyond first aid — and what NMC registration means in practiceThe non-negotiables for safe medicines management: administration, storage, documentation, training and oversightHow to scope your nursing provision around your school’s needs — boarding/day, SEN, mental health, allergies, sport, controlled medsWhat “good governance” looks like on the ground: confidential records, appropriate clinical space, safeguarding integration, and clinical supervisionCommon pitfalls schools make — including mis-scoping the role, under-resourcing, and placing newly qualified nurses into unsupported lone-working postsA quick scan of this week’s headlines: KCSIE 2026 consultation, measles readiness, mobile phones and inspection focus from 01 Apr 2026, and Charities SORP 2026 basicsResources MentionedISBA Weekly Bulletin (19 Feb 2026) — key operational headlinesISBA Reference Library — infectious disease resourcesKCSIE 2026 draft consultation (England)DfE guidance: Mobile phones in schoolsUKHSA measles guidance and reporting routesCharities SORP 2026 overview and implementation considerationsSAPHNA Independent School Nursing Governance Guidance (endorsed by the RCN) (as signposted in the episode)Subscribe & FollowISBA BursarcastNew episodes every Friday at 4pm.Follow on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or Acast to stay informed on the latest in independent school operations.Email: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s ISBA Bursarcast brings you a focused newsbeat on employment law timelines, payroll changes, smartphone policy research, inspection readiness and key sector deadlines—centred on what bursars and senior leaders need to know now.We cover the delay to ‘fire and rehire’ reform under the Employment Rights Act 2025, the postponement of mandatory payrolling of benefits in kind, new research into the operational cost of smartphone policies, and the launch of ISBA’s new Bursar’s Guide to ISI Inspections.This episode is designed for time-poor professionals who want clarity, context and practical next steps—without wading through technical notes and legislative updates.What You’ll LearnWhat the delayed implementation of the Employment Rights Act 2025 means for contract variations and restructuring timelinesHow the postponement of mandatory payrolling for benefits in kind from HM Revenue & Customs affects payroll planningWhat new research from the University of Birmingham suggests about the time and cost of restrictive vs permissive smartphone policiesHow to use ISBA’s new Bursar’s Guide to ISI Inspections as a practical compliance toolWhat the forthcoming statutory allergy guidance means for senior leadership accountabilityWhy now is the moment to review nursery sustainability in light of funded-hours pressuresKey February deadlines and professional development opportunitiesResources MentionedEmployment Rights Act 2025 — revised implementation timelineHMRC technical note on mandatory payrolling of benefits in kindUniversity of Birmingham study on smartphone policy economics (BMJ Mental Health)ISBA Reference Library: The Bursar’s Guide to ISI Inspections(Full details and links are available via the ISBA Weekly Bulletin and member resources.)Subscribe & FollowISBA BursarcastNew episodes every Friday at 4pm.Follow on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or Acast to stay informed on the latest in independent school operations.Email: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“It’s less likely that this year will be a return to normal and more a year for managing persistent and underlying inflation using insights and an understanding of the food and commodity markets to plan both budgets and menus.” In part one of this two-part conversation, Jo Hall and Hayden Hibbert from allmanhall join us to explore food procurement trends and inflation pressures facing independent schools in 2026.We cover:Inflation outlook for food through to 2027Core drivers of costStrategies for better menu planning and budgetingThe role of plant-based and seasonal ingredientsHow catering quality links to student experience and retentionPlus:Your monthly regulatory newsbeat—from the Employment Rights Act to restrictive interventions reporting, and key dates for spring term events.Resources mentioned:Foodsight magazine: https://issuu.com/allmanhall/docs/foodsight_-_independent_education_january_2026Hero Recipes: https://issuu.com/allmanhall/stacks/1739dd65f7af4aab8ec6e802ae9b3484Independent Education brochure: https://issuu.com/allmanhall/docs/digital_independent_education_4pp_2025-26Royal Russell case study: https://youtu.be/ou8Cb6L6u5s?si=PxHPE8w6SDq4GDEhallmanhall website: https://allmanhall.co.uk/ Part 2 continues next week with more on supply chain dynamics, benchmarking catering performance, and practical tips for procurement.Email: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when pupils are given a voice in the dining hall — and their feedback drives real change? In this episode, we speak with Patrick McDermott from DigiTally, Michelle Howard, Sustainability and Energy Officer at Woodhouse Grove School, and Kevin Grant, the school’s Head Chef.Together, they explore how Woodhouse Grove took part in DigiTally’s Food Waste Challenge, using real-time pupil feedback to track what was left uneaten, identify what worked (and what didn’t), and make targeted changes to reduce waste and improve satisfaction.This short, practical conversation covers:How feedback tools helped the school understand and cut food wasteThe role of student voice in shaping more effective menusOperational changes made by the catering team based on the dataFinancial and sustainability benefits already being realisedThe wider educational impact on pupils’ awareness of food and wasteWhether or not your school uses digital tracking, this episode offers a clear case study in how data and dialogue can help align catering, sustainability, and budget priorities — without adding complexity. Resources MentionedDigitally Website ISBA Reference Library (Members only)Email: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we are joined by two guests: Sue Roxby, ISBA Head of Advice & Guidance, to provide an overview of the sector and how the ISBA will support its members. Then, Angus Jones, CEO of Clarity, shares practical steps any independent school can take to start or strengthen a charitable giving programme. From setting up Gift Aid correctly to introducing legacy giving, we cover the must-haves, common pitfalls, and strategies that boost both income and impact.Topics CoveredWhy fundraising matters for financial resilience—even in smaller schoolsGift Aid explained: what’s required, how to claim, and how to communicate itGovernance essentials for bursars: policies, records, and ethical guardrailsHow to talk to parents about tax-efficient giving, without pressureLegacy giving and share donations: realistic strategies for schoolsWhat to do first, and what to avoidResources MentionedISBA Reference Library: Fundraising and Development sectionHMRC Guidance on Gift AidCharity Commission Fundraising Guidance“Remember A Charity” legacy campaign – rememberacharity.org.ukFor more from Angus and Claritywww.clarityglobal.com/independent-schools-investment-managementEmail: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this final briefing of 2025, we cover urgent and practical updates for independent school business leaders—starting with a fraud alert on a payroll scam targeting school offices. We also unpack new legal requirements for Companies House ID verification, share how you can benefit from ISBA’s enhanced benchmarking tool, and outline how to correct VAT return errors. Plus, inspection trends, conference highlights, and key training dates for the new year.What’s Inside:🛡 Fraud Alert – Payroll scam attempt flagged by a member school🧾 Companies House – New identity verification rules for directors📊 Data Navigator Relaunch – Benchmarking made better (and free for early birds)💷 Correcting VAT Errors – Don’t panic; here’s how to fix them🏫 ISI Inspections – Trends in non-compliance and how to prepare📅 Key Dates – Webinars in January and Finance Conference 2026🎄 Festive Sign-Off – A thank you from ISBA and a look ahead to 2026Useful Links:Verify your identity with Companies House – GOV.UKCorrecting VAT errors – GOV.UKFinance Conference 2026 – Book your placeKey Deadlines:🐦 Early Bird: Submit Data Navigator responses by 16 January 2026📊 Final deadline for Data Navigator: 12 February 2026Contact ISBA Advice & Guidance:📧 AdviceatISBA@theisba.org.ukSubscribe for Weekly Briefings:Stay updated with ISBA sector insights every Friday at 4pm. Available wherever you get your podcasts.Email: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we cover critical end-of-term updates from ISBA Bulletin No. 27 — including new retention advice for recruitment records, UCAS contextual data for FSM-eligible pupils, and a renewed push to get schools participating in the Data Navigator benchmarking tool.We also unpack the latest guidance on VAT and early years funding, highlight the final call for the 2026 Tech Survey, and offer procurement insights for schools renewing energy contracts in 2026.This episode gives bursars, finance leads, and senior operational staff a clear, concise overview of what’s changing — and what steps to take before term ends.What You’ll LearnWhy schools should now retain unsuccessful applicant records for 12 monthsHow the FSM Contextual Data Service ensures disadvantaged pupils are recognised by UCASWhat the Data Navigator offers bursars — and why early submission unlocks premium featuresThe current energy price forecast — and how to time April/October 2026 renewalsWhy reception fees are subject to VAT but EY funding is exemptWhat ISI inspectors are asking about guardianship and homestay arrangementsKey Action PointsUpdate recruitment retention policies in line with the ACAS extensionEvaluate if any pupils qualify for FSM contextual UCAS support and register with BAA earlyBlock time for your team to upload data to the ISBA Data Navigator before 16 JanuaryShare the Technology Survey with relevant school staff before the Christmas breakRun a price discovery exercise if your school renews energy contracts in 2026Review your VAT invoicing practices for local authority EY fundingPrepare to evidence host family and guardianship vetting during inspectionsLinks & ResourcesISBA Reference Library – Recruitment & Data Retention (Login Required)FSM Contextual Data Service – Bursary Assessment AssociatesISBA Data Navigator Tool – Barnett WaddinghamMindful Energy – Energy Market UpdateISBA Reference Library – VAT & EY Funding (Login Required)HSE – Managing Drug and Alcohol MisuseCharity Commission – Hostile Environment GuidanceIndependent schools are entering a high-stakes period for compliance, planning and benchmarking. This episode helps you close the term well and start 2026 prepared.For personalised guidance, contact the ISBA Advice and Guidance team at adviceat@theisba.org.uk.Email: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julie Robinson, CEO of the ISC joins us this week to unpack the latest pressures on the independent sector—from pupil number drops and VAT concerns to Autumn Budget implications and staffing risks.We touch on headline data, including a 3.6% fall in pupil numbers, and explore wider financial signals like rising staff costs and a new cap on pension-related NI relief.Also covered: changes to unfair dismissal law, SEND funding reform, and how schools are using partnerships to stay resilient in challenging conditions. Key Points3.6% pupil drop in 2024–25VAT impact on fees and demandBudget 2025: rising NLW, NI relief capUnfair dismissal: 6-month protection from 2026SEND reform on the horizonSector positivity via Partnerships WeekLinks mentionedISBA WebsiteISC WebsitePartnerships BookletEmail: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we unpack the latest inspection data from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), break down changes to the HR1 Form from 1 December 2025, and flag urgent implications of the forthcoming Employment Rights Bill.With compliance rates falling and new legal restrictions coming into force from 2026, schools need to act now to maintain flexibility and meet statutory requirements.This episode gives bursars, HR leads, and senior staff a concise, practical update on what’s changing—and how to respond. What You’ll LearnWhy ISI compliance rates have dropped—and the two areas most schools are struggling withPractical steps to improve inspection readiness, based on real inspection findingsWhat’s changing with the HR1 Form from 1 December 2025—and how to prepareHow the Employment Rights Bill will restrict “fire and rehire” and casual staffing arrangementsWhy spring 2026 is a critical window for contractual changes before new rules apply Key Action PointsReview leadership oversight of safeguarding and attendance complianceUpdate safer recruitment checks and maintain a robust Single Central Record (SCR)Familiarise HR teams with the new HR1 Form process and prepare the required data in advancePlan staffing reviews now—consult early to retain flexibility ahead of October 2026Use the ISBA Advice & Guidance team to sense-check inspection readiness and staffing plans Links & ResourcesISBA Reference Library – Inspections and Compliance (Login Required)Gov.uk – HR1: Advance Notification of RedundanciesDfE – Working Together to Improve School Attendance (2024)HCR Law – Employment Law for SchoolsIndependent schools face tightening regulations and reduced employment flexibility. This episode outlines what’s coming—and what to do next.For full guidance, log in to the ISBA Reference Library or contact the Advice and Guidance team at adviceat@theisba.org.uk.Email: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Independent schools need data they can trust—and use. In this episode, ISBA’s Sue Roxby (re)introduces Data Navigator, a purpose-built benchmarking tool designed specifically for bursars and finance teams across the sector.With sector-specific metrics, clean visuals, and peer-group comparisons, Data Navigator helps schools move from instinct to evidence—supporting better planning, clearer reporting, and more strategic conversations with heads and governors.Allan Englelhardt from Barnett Waddingham explains how the tool works in practice, while Sue highlights why this year’s data window (open now until mid-February 2026) is critical to unlocking the tool’s full value for every member school.Whether you’ve taken part before or are new to benchmarking, this is the year to engage.What You’ll LearnWhy ISBA built Data Navigator and how it responds to member needsWhat makes the tool different from generic benchmarking platformsHow schools can use it to assess staffing, pupil ratios, and operational spendingWhy structured participation now will deliver sector-wide insights by March 2026How data collected today can shape future guidance, training, and sector standards Key Action PointsRegister interest: Schools will receive the data form via ISBA communicationsSubmit data: All entries must be completed by mid-February 2026Access insight: Sector-wide dashboards go live in March 2026, enabling integration into 2026/27 planning Links & ResourcesISBA Reference Library – Benchmarking Tool Information (Login Required)ISBA Advice & Guidance – Need help? adviceat@theisba.org.ukHelp shape the most accurate, sector-wide financial benchmarking resource available. Submit your school’s data by mid-February and gain valuable insight in March 2026.ISBA members: this tool was built for you. Let’s make it work for all of us.Email: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We begin with a concise round-up of the latest ISBA news and bulletin headlines — including sector updates, new resources, and key policy developments for independent schools.Then we turn to the main feature, where we’re joined once again by Katie Saunders from Furlong to explore how schools can take a strategic, system-wide approach to financial efficiency.Katie explains how true efficiency goes beyond cost-cutting to include streamlined workflows, automation, and better user experience for teachers, admin teams and support staff. She shares common pain points in financial systems, the role of regular audits and feedback, and the importance of designing processes that scale — not just patchwork fixes for the current budget cycle.This is a must-listen for any school looking to reduce friction, unlock capacity, and future-proof their financial operations.Highlights include:Updates from the latest ISBA news and bulletin headlinesWhy financial efficiency is about systems and people — not just savingsHow to identify bottlenecks and involve staff in process redesignThe role of third-party audits and user feedback in driving improvementsStrategic actions schools can take now to embed long-term efficiencyGuest InformationKatie Saunders, TASS Finance Consultant, Furlong Business SolutionsKatie supports schools in transforming their financial processes through smart system design, user-first approaches, and strategic automation. She brings insight from working closely with independent schools across the UK on workflow and efficiency projects that make a measurable difference.Resources & Links MentionedISBA Bulletin and News Headlines: available via www.theisba.org.ukMore on Furlong: https://furlongschoolbase.co.uk/Independent schools strategic finance guidance: see ISBA Reference LibraryCase examples and workflow audit tools: contact Furlong directlyStay Connected & Next StepsIf you found this episode useful, please follow or subscribe on your preferred podcast platform.Have questions or ideas for future episodes? Email the team at podcast@theisba.org.uk.And don’t forget — ISBA members can access additional resources on financial efficiency and systems reviews in the ISBA Reference Library after listening.Email: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we are joined by Lucy Wyatt, Director of ISBA’s Recruitment Services, to discuss the growing challenges schools face in recruitment and retention. With rising costs, shifting regulations, and an increasingly competitive job market, Lucy explores how ISBA supports schools in building strong, adaptable teams that can meet the demands of a changing sector.Lucy shares insights into emerging trends such as the centralisation of business functions and the need for agile, change-ready personnel. She also outlines ISBA’s comprehensive recruitment and mentoring services — designed to help schools find, develop, and retain the right people for long-term success.In This EpisodeThe current recruitment and retention challenges facing independent schools.How ISBA’s personnel services support schools with permanent, interim, and mentoring solutions.The growing importance of agility, adaptability, and change management in school staffing.Aligning recruitment with a school’s ethos, strategy, and future direction.Insights into the diverse professional backgrounds entering the independent sector.How mentoring and advisory support can strengthen leadership pipelines.The latest HR and sector updates impacting recruitment and compliance.The latest headlines for the sectorKey dates and CPD opportunitiesKey TakeawayEffective recruitment goes beyond filling roles — it’s about finding people who align with a school’s culture, values, and strategic goals. With the right guidance, planning, and mentoring, schools can build resilient teams ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow.Resources[ISBA Personnel Services – link]Lucy's Wyatt contact details: 07817 038009LucyWyatt@theisba.org.ukhttps://www.theisba.org.uk/Email: podcast@theisba.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you. The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIOwww.rafikistudio.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.