Avsnitt
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This week’s Bursarcast focuses on the technology, compliance, safeguarding, staffing and financial developments most likely to affect independent school operations.ISBA Technology Survey 2026 and measuring return on digital investmentDfE call for evidence on children’s screen useFuture scrutiny of EdTech, generative AI, filtering and monitoringInspection readiness and recurring compliance themesDecommissioning of the ISBA Inspection Toolkit on 31 August 2026Safeguarding policy updates linked to draft KCSIE 2026Government consultation on zero and low hours contractsSupreme Court appeals relating to VAT on school feesEnergy renewal risk and market volatilityGuest segment with Helen Woods on the latest ISBA Annual ConferenceKey conference learnings for operational planning, governance and sector prioritiesResources Mentioned:ISBA Technology Survey 2026 ReportDfE call for evidence on children’s screen useISBA Bursar’s Guide to ISI InspectionsISBA Inspection Toolkit/App noticeISBA Template Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy updatesDraft KCSIE 2026 consultation materialGovernment consultation on zero and low-hours contractsSupreme Court VAT legal challenge updatesMindful Energy renewal price forecastISBA Annual Conference reflections with Helen WoodsSubscribe & Follow:
New episodes every Friday at 4pm on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Acast.
Get in touch at: [email protected].uk
Email: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This week’s Bursarcast focuses on safeguarding, security, complaints, estates compliance and end-of-year operational readiness for independent schools.
We cover the DfE consultation on the new information-sharing duty under the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act, including the potential implications for safeguarding practice, policy, training, local partnership working, record-keeping and professional judgement.
We also flag the Home Office’s statutory guidance on Martyn’s Law, now the main source of information on requirements for premises in scope. Education-specific guidance from the DfE is still awaited, and the law is not expected to come into force until spring 2027.
For schools managing parental complaints, we look at the growing use of AI-generated correspondence, including the risk of longer, more legalistic and sometimes inaccurate complaints. The episode highlights the importance of proportionate processes, clear communication boundaries and inspection-ready complaints handling.
The end-of-year checklist is another major theme, with finance, payroll, HR and compliance tasks now coming into sharp focus. We cover charity reporting, P11Ds, PAYE Settlement Agreements, audit planning, budget finalisation, payroll updates, National Minimum Wage and mileage-rate checks, SORP preparation, VAT, employment contracts, staff accommodation documents, SCR checks, policy review and strategic risk-register updates.
We also look at inspection readiness on water supplies, including drinking water, scalding risk, washing facilities, legionella risk assessments, flushing records, temperature monitoring and maintenance evidence.
Digital risk features too, with the launch of the DfE Cyber Security Hub and ISBA’s updated guidance on parent WhatsApp groups, covering data protection, reputation, safeguarding and parent communications.
A focused update for bursars, heads, governors, COOs, DSLs, HR leads, estates teams and compliance leads preparing for the final weeks of term and the start of the next academic year.
Resources Mentioned DfE consultation on the information-sharing duty under the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act — available via GOV.UK Working Together to Safeguard Children 2026 — available via GOV.UK Home Office statutory guidance on Martyn’s Law / Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 — available via GOV.UK Security Industry Authority consultation on Martyn’s Law regulatory guidance — available via GOV.UK Stone King guidance on AI and parental complaints — referenced in the ISBA bulletin ParentKind guidance on effective complaint resolution and AI use — available via ParentKind ISBA end-of-academic-year advice and guidance checklist — available in the ISBA bulletin and member resources Charity Commission annual return and accounts filing services — available via GOV.UK Charity Commission for Northern Ireland annual reporting guidance — available via CCNI OSCR annual reporting guidance — available via OSCR HMRC P11D and P11D(b) guidance — available via GOV.UK HMRC PAYE Settlement Agreement guidance — available via GOV.UK ISBA template employment contracts — available in the ISBA Reference Library ISBA staff accommodation contracts — available in the ISBA Reference Library ISBA Bursar’s Guide to ISI Inspection — available in the ISBA Reference Library HSE guidance on Legionella and Legionnaires’ disease — available via HSE Standards for school premises — available via GOV.UK ISBA Approach to Parent WhatsApp Groups guidance — available in the ISBA Reference Library DfE Cyber Security Hub for schools — available via GOV.UK DfE AI support materials for schools and colleges — available via GOV.UK Chartered College of Teaching AI case studies and research articles — available via the Chartered College of TeachingSubscribe & FollowNew episodes every Friday at 4 pm on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Acast.
Email: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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This week’s Bursarcast focuses on the compliance, safeguarding, staffing and financial governance developments most likely to affect independent school operations.
We cover the EHRC’s draft updated Code of Practice, now presented to Parliament, and the connected safeguarding and equality implications for schools as they monitor proposed KCSIE updates on pupils questioning their gender.
We also flag safeguarding policy readiness following the updated Working Together to Safeguard Children guidance, including the importance of keeping policy references current and ensuring school practice matches published procedures.
For schools providing staff accommodation, we note ISBA’s updated assured periodic tenancy and prior notice of grounds templates, linked to the Renters’ Rights Act. The episode also covers updated reserves and investment policy guidance, HMRC’s approved mileage rates from 6 April 2026, and warnings about business rates agents and cold calling.
Digital risk is another theme this week, with practical issues around smart glasses, image capture, acceptable use, exams, visitors and reasonable adjustments. We also look at the wider debate on social media access for under-16s and the direction of travel on mobile phone policy scrutiny.
We highlight two senior recruitment opportunities: bursar roles at The King’s Bruton Foundation and Dover College.
A focused update for bursars, heads, governors, COOs and senior teams tracking the issues that could shape compliance, safeguarding, staffing, finance, property and operational risk planning.
Resources MentionedEHRC draft updated Code of Practice for Services, Public Functions and Associations — available via GOV.UK KCSIE 2026 proposed revisions — available via GOV.UK ISBA webinar: KCSIE on gender questioning pupils – a new statutory safeguarding lens Working Together to Safeguard Children 2026 — available via GOV.UK ISBA safeguarding policy template amendments — available in the ISBA Reference Library National Minimum Standards for Boarding — available via GOV.UK Independent School Standards Guidance — available via GOV.UK Digital and technology standards in schools and colleges — available via GOV.UK Children Missing Education guidance — available via GOV.UK ISBA updated assured periodic tenancy agreement and prior notice of grounds templates — available in the ISBA Reference Library ISBA Reserves and Investment Policy Template and Guidance — available in the ISBA Reference Library HMRC travel mileage and fuel rates and allowances — available via GOV.UK Valuation Office Agency guidance on choosing a business rates agent — available via GOV.UK HSE workplace temperature guidance and checklist — available via HSE DfE hot weather and heatwaves guidance for schools and education settings — available via GOV.UK Government consultation and policy material on children’s use of social media — available via GOV.UK ISI consultations on inspection complaints and significant strengths — available via ISI DfE call for evidence on antisemitism in schools and colleges — available via GOV.UK ISBA recruitment: Bursar at The King’s Bruton Foundation ISBA recruitment: Bursar at Dover CollegeSubscribe & FollowNew episodes every Friday at 4pm on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Acast.
Email: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This week’s Bursarcast focuses on the compliance, safeguarding and financial planning developments most likely to affect independent school operations.
We cover the new data protection complaints duty under the Data Use and Access Act, fresh guidance on protecting images of children from AI manipulation and abuse, and the latest pensions watchpoint following confirmation of the SCAPE discount rate at CPI plus 2%.
We also flag practical inspection-readiness advice on keeping a live log, key policy signals from the King’s Speech, live consultations on children’s use of social media and antisemitism, and DfE updates on AI in education, flu vaccination planning, online misogyny resources and an urgent asbestos-related product safety alert.
A focused update for bursars, heads, governors, COOs and senior teams tracking the issues that could shape compliance, safeguarding, finance and operational risk planning.
Resources MentionedISBA Annual Conference 2026 presentation slides — available in the ISBA Reference LibraryProtecting images of children from AI manipulation and abuse guidance — available via the UK Online Harms Early Warning Working GroupISBA Taking, Storing and Using Images of Children Policy — available in the ISBA Reference LibraryICO guidance on data protection complaints — available via the ICOISBA data protection complaints guidance note and template complaints form — available in the ISBA Reference LibraryISBA external privacy notice template and updated Data Protection Policy — available in the ISBA Reference LibraryGovernment consultation: Growing up in the online world — available via GOV.UKDfE call for evidence: Tackling antisemitism in schools and colleges — available via GOV.UKDfE updated guidance on supporting immunisation programmes for children and young people — available via GOV.UKOPSS Product Safety Alerts, Reports and Recalls page — available via GOV.UKDfE AI in education support materials — available via GOV.UKUpdated National Minimum Standards for boarding schools and residential special schools — available via GOV.UKSubscribe & FollowNew episodes every Friday at 4pm on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Acast.
Email: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This week’s Bursarcast focuses on the developments most likely to affect school operations, governance and risk planning.
We cover the proposed ISBA and AGBIS merger, ISC’s governance changes, early preparation for Charities SORP 2026, and continuing inspection risk around attendance and compliance evidence.
We also flag live ISI consultations, VAT treatment of sponsorship, Canvas/Instructure cyber reports, and a reminder for schools with vehicle operator licences to keep contact details up to date.
A focused update for bursars, heads, governors and senior teams tracking the issues that could shape compliance, finance and operational decision-making.
Resources MentionedISBA/AGBIS merger webinar recording — available in the ISBA Reference Library
Charities SORP 2026 Preparation Checklist — available in the ISBA Reference Library
ISBA School Attendance Policy template — available in the ISBA Reference Library
ISBA Attendance FAQs — available in the ISBA Reference Library
ISI consultations on complaints policy and removal of “significant strength” — available in the latest bulletin
HMRC VAT Notice 701/41: Sponsorship — https://www.gov.uk/guidance/vat-notice-70141-sponsorship
Manage your vehicle operator licence / VOL account — https://www.gov.uk/manage-vehicle-operator-licence
ISBA The Bursar’s Guide to ISI Inspections, Appendix 1 — available in the ISBA Reference Library
Subscribe & FollowNew episodes every Friday at 4pm on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Acast.
Email: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode of ISBA Bursarcast, we begin with the latest operational updates for independent school leaders, including new holiday record-keeping duties under the Employment Rights Act 2025, future employment reforms expected in 2027, HMRC payroll changes, inspection readiness reminders and recent updates from the DfE and Charity Commission.
We then turn to the wider risk environment facing independent schools.
Ian Morgan and Laura Armstrong from Assured Partners ( Gallagher) discuss how schools are managing a more complex landscape shaped by inflation, fee sensitivity, wage growth, demographic change, technology, cyber threats, digital safeguarding and increased political and regulatory scrutiny.
They explore the impact of VAT-linked pupil departures, financial strain across the sector, mergers and acquisitions, restructuring, international boarding pressures, estates risk, underinsurance, business continuity planning and more forensic inspection expectations.
The conversation also looks at the rising importance of leadership resilience — including preparedness, clear escalation routes, transparent communication, strong governance and reducing over-reliance on individuals.
In this episode:
Employment Rights Act 2025: holiday record-keeping duties from 6 April 2026Planning ahead for 2027 employment law changesHMRC updates, including SSP, parental leave and P11D reportingInspection readiness: written agreements for over-16s living on siteDfE updates on medical conditions, allergies, antisemitism and SEND reformCharity Commission updates on online safety and conflicts of interestThe changing risk profile for independent schoolsVAT, fee sensitivity and pupil movementCyber risk, AI, digital safeguarding and insurance readinessEstates risk, commercial use of facilities and underinsuranceBusiness continuity, governance and leadership resilienceGuestsLaura Armstrong is a specialist in working with global school groups, independent schools, universities and multi-academy trusts. She has 17 years of experience in the insurance and risk management industry, with strong relationships across the education insurance market. She leads on insurer negotiations, advises on bespoke insurance programmes and structures, and highlights emerging risks for the education sector.
Ian Morgan is Risk Services Director at Assured Partners. Chartered since 2012, Ian has worked across the education sector for more than 15 years and as a consultant for eight years, mainly with independent schools and charities. He is a fire risk assessor and leads a team of consultants across the UK.
More from them here
Useful links and remindersISBA members can find further details on the weekly bulletin items, including employment guidance, inspection resources and professional development opportunities, through the ISBA website and reference library.
The ISBA Annual Conference 2026 takes place from 11 to 13 May at ICC Wales.
Email: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This week’s ISBA Bursarcast asks a timely operational question for schools: how secure is the journey between a parent receiving a fee request and the school actually receiving the money?
Peter Othen, Director of IT at Magdalen College School, and Simon Freeman, Managing Director of Education at iSAMS, join us to discuss the risks around fee collection, parent payment scams and the wider cyber challenges facing independent schools.
The conversation looks beyond technical systems alone. We explore how fraudsters exploit trust, why parent communications are part of cyber resilience, and how schools can think more strategically about future-proofing their IT infrastructure.
Alongside the feature, we deliver a condensed newsbeat from the latest ISBA bulletin, including: residential tenancy changes from 1 May 2026, updated safeguarding expectations under Working Together to Safeguard Children 2026, the SEND reform consultation, mobile phone expectations and inspection readiness, and new data protection complaints requirements from 19 June 2026.
What You’ll Learn Why fee collection is becoming a more prominent cyber-risk issue for schools How parents can be targeted by scammers posing as schools or payment providers Why cyber resilience is about communication, trust and process, not just technology What senior leaders should understand about future-proofing school IT systems Why finance, IT and communications teams need to work closely on payment journeys How cyber incidents can create operational, reputational and data protection risk This week’s key operational headlines from the ISBA bulletinResources Mentioned ISBA Reference Library ISBA guidance on residential tenancies and staff accommodation Working Together to Safeguard Children 2026 ISC SEND reform questionnaire and government consultation DfE guidance on mobile phones in schools ISBA GDPR and data protection complaints guidance iSAMSMore from iSAMSSubscribe & FollowNew episodes every Friday at 4pm on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Acast.
Email: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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A key question asked this week is, What does catering now signal about culture, quality and the day-to-day school experience?
This week’s ISBA Bursarcast opens with the key operational and regulatory developments for the sector this week, including updated Independent School Standards Regulations on restrictive interventions, refreshed Independent Schools Standards Guidance, and sharper inspection expectations around behaviour policy, mobile phones and implementation on the ground.
We also look at the wider compliance picture for schools, including the DfE consultation on supporting children with medical conditions and allergy, plus practical reminders on Renters’ Rights, teachers’ pensions re-enrolment, and current health and safety developments.
Then, in our guest segment, we are joined by Scott and Robin from sector-leading independent school caterers Holroyd Howe, ahead of the ISBA Annual Conference at ICC Wales, where Holroyd Howe will be one of the headline sponsors. In a wide-ranging discussion, we explore the impact of catering on the school experience for pupils, parents and staff, what best practice looks like, and where school catering may be heading next. Whether your school caters in-house or works with a specialist provider, there are useful takeaways across the school community.
In this episode:
New ISSR requirements on recording and reporting force, seclusion and restraintUpdated Independent Schools Standards GuidanceInspection implications for behaviour, mobile phone policy and staff understandingDfE consultation on medical conditions and allergyRenters’ Rights, TPS automatic re-enrolment and HSE updatesGuest discussion with Scott and Robin from Holroyd Howe on catering, culture and the school experienceResources mentioned (Members only)ISBA template Behaviour Management PolicyISBA’s Bursar’s Guide to ISI InspectionsISBA guidance note on TPS and managing automatic re-enrolmentISBA member guidance and source bulletin materialsISBA Annual Conference at ICC WalesMore from Holroyd Howe https://holroydhowe.com/
Subscribe & FollowNew episodes every Friday at 4pm on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Acast.
Email: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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 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: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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 Inquiry
Guest 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 engagement
Why 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 Library
Includes the final Bursar’s Guide to VAT, the updated Holiday/Summer Lets Agreement, recorded webinars, and member guidance materials.
ISBA Advice and Guidance team
For school-specific follow-up questions on the issues covered in the bulletin.
Companies House guidance
Includes 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 consultations
Including the updated data protection in schools toolkit, the Keeping Children Safe in Education consultation, and consultation on support for pupils with medical conditions.
The Circuit
National defibrillator database for checking whether a school’s defibrillator is visible to ambulance services and marked rescue ready.
UKHSA and NHS meningitis information
For schools and families following the Kent and Medway meningococcal disease outbreak updates.
VWV article and guidance references
Including the copyright infringement reminder and article on restrictive interventions.
ISBA Annual Conference 2026
11–13 May 2026, ICC Wales.
More from School Scout https://schoolscout.uk/
james.dobson@schoolscout.uk
Subscribe & FollowNew episodes every Friday at 4pm on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Acast
Email: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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 bulletin
Resources 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: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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 consultation
Resources 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 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: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
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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 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: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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 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: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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 & FollowISBA 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: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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“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: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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: [email protected].uk – we’d love to hear from you.
The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO
www.rafikistudio.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Visa fler
