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.

• Why fundraising matters for financial resilience—even in smaller schools
• Gift Aid explained: what’s required, how to claim, and how to communicate it
• Governance essentials for bursars: policies, records, and ethical guardrails
• How to talk to parents about tax-efficient giving, without pressure
• Legacy giving and share donations: realistic strategies for schools
• What to do first, and what to avoid

• ISBA Reference Library: Fundraising and Development section
• HMRC Guidance on Gift Aid
• Charity Commission Fundraising Guidance
• “Remember A Charity” legacy campaign – rememberacharity.org.uk

For more from Angus and Clarity

www.clarityglobal.com/independent-schools-investment-management

Email: [email protected] – 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.

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 2026
• 
  

Useful Links:

• Verify your identity with Companies House – GOV.UK
• Correcting VAT errors – GOV.UK
• Finance Conference 2026 – Book your place

Key Deadlines:

• 🐦 Early Bird: Submit Data Navigator responses by 16 January 2026
• 📊 Final deadline for Data Navigator: 12 February 2026

Contact ISBA Advice & Guidance:

📧 [email protected]

Subscribe for Weekly Briefings:

Stay updated with ISBA sector insights every Friday at 4pm. Available wherever you get your podcasts.

Email: [email protected] – we’d love to hear from you.

The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO

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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.

• Why schools should now retain unsuccessful applicant records for 12 months
• How the FSM Contextual Data Service ensures disadvantaged pupils are recognised by UCAS
• What the Data Navigator offers bursars — and why early submission unlocks premium features
• The current energy price forecast — and how to time April/October 2026 renewals
• Why reception fees are subject to VAT but EY funding is exempt
• What ISI inspectors are asking about guardianship and homestay arrangements

• Update recruitment retention policies in line with the ACAS extension
• Evaluate if any pupils qualify for FSM contextual UCAS support and register with BAA early
• Block time for your team to upload data to the ISBA Data Navigator before 16 January
• Share the Technology Survey with relevant school staff before the Christmas break
• Run a price discovery exercise if your school renews energy contracts in 2026
• Review your VAT invoicing practices for local authority EY funding
• Prepare to evidence host family and guardianship vetting during inspections

• ISBA Reference Library – Recruitment & Data Retention (Login Required)
• FSM Contextual Data Service – Bursary Assessment Associates
• ISBA Data Navigator Tool – Barnett Waddingham
• Mindful Energy – Energy Market Update
• ISBA Reference Library – VAT & EY Funding (Login Required)
• HSE – Managing Drug and Alcohol Misuse
• Charity Commission – Hostile Environment Guidance

Independent 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 [email protected].

Email: [email protected] – 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.

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.

• 3.6% pupil drop in 2024–25
• VAT impact on fees and demand
• Budget 2025: rising NLW, NI relief cap
• Unfair dismissal: 6-month protection from 2026
• SEND reform on the horizon
• Sector positivity via Partnerships Week

• ISBA Website
• ISC Website
• Partnerships Booklet

Email: [email protected] – 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.

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.

• Why ISI compliance rates have dropped—and the two areas most schools are struggling with
• Practical steps to improve inspection readiness, based on real inspection findings
• What’s changing with the HR1 Form from 1 December 2025—and how to prepare
• How the Employment Rights Bill will restrict “fire and rehire” and casual staffing arrangements
• Why spring 2026 is a critical window for contractual changes before new rules apply

• Review leadership oversight of safeguarding and attendance compliance
• Update 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 advance
• Plan staffing reviews now—consult early to retain flexibility ahead of October 2026
• Use the ISBA Advice & Guidance team to sense-check inspection readiness and staffing plans

• ISBA Reference Library – Inspections and Compliance (Login Required)
• Gov.uk – HR1: Advance Notification of Redundancies
• DfE – Working Together to Improve School Attendance (2024)
• HCR Law – Employment Law for Schools

Independent 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 [email protected].

Email: [email protected] – 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.

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.

• Why ISBA built Data Navigator and how it responds to member needs
• What makes the tool different from generic benchmarking platforms
• How schools can use it to assess staffing, pupil ratios, and operational spending
• Why structured participation now will deliver sector-wide insights by March 2026
• How data collected today can shape future guidance, training, and sector standards

• Register interest: Schools will receive the data form via ISBA communications
• Submit data: All entries must be completed by mid-February 2026
• Access insight: Sector-wide dashboards go live in March 2026, enabling integration into 2026/27 planning

• ISBA Reference Library – Benchmarking Tool Information (Login Required)
• ISBA Advice & Guidance – Need help? [email protected]

Help 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: [email protected] – 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.

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.

• Updates from the latest ISBA news and bulletin headlines
• Why financial efficiency is about systems and people — not just savings
• How to identify bottlenecks and involve staff in process redesign
• The role of third-party audits and user feedback in driving improvements
• Strategic actions schools can take now to embed long-term efficiency

Katie Saunders, TASS Finance Consultant, Furlong Business Solutions

Katie 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.

• ISBA Bulletin and News Headlines: available via www.theisba.org.uk
• More on Furlong: https://furlongschoolbase.co.uk/
• Independent schools strategic finance guidance: see ISBA Reference Library
• Case examples and workflow audit tools: contact Furlong directly

If 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 [email protected].

And don’t forget — ISBA members can access additional resources on financial efficiency and systems reviews in the ISBA Reference Library after listening.

Email: [email protected] – 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.

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.

• The 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 sector
• Key dates and CPD opportunities

Effective 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.

[ISBA Personnel Services – link]

Lucy's Wyatt contact details: 07817 038009

[email protected]

https://www.theisba.org.uk/

Email: [email protected] – we’d love to hear from you.

The Bursarcast is produced by RAFIKI STUDIO

www.rafikistudio.com

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In this episode, Lou Bennett ( CEO of IDPE) joins us to discuss why senior leadership engagement is the cornerstone of successful fundraising in schools. As financial pressures grow, Lou introduces the Fundraising Futures Report — a practical framework to help schools diversify income, build community relationships, and embed fundraising into long-term strategy.

• Why schools must diversify income and invest in fundraising.
• The Fundraising Futures Report and its six key success factors.
• The vital role of heads and governors in driving a culture of philanthropy.
• Building lasting relationships with parents, alumni, and the wider community.
• How to set meaningful KPIs and measure engagement beyond financial targets.
• 
  

Fundraising thrives when leaders lead. With a clear strategy, community engagement, and active involvement from heads and governors, schools can build sustainable fundraising programmes that align with their broader vision.

• [Fundraising Futures Report – link]
• [ISBA Development Resources – link]

Email: [email protected] – 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.

In this edition of The Bursarcast Podcast, 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 by Paul Gregory, Group Commercial Director at HSEnergy Group, to explore how schools can take practical steps toward energy independence.

Paul explains how HSEnergy is helping schools address rising energy costs and sustainability targets through solar generation, AI-powered battery storage, and fully funded energy solutions that require no upfront investment. He shares real examples from education projects across the UK, showing how intelligent energy management can reduce reliance on the grid, lower costs, and strengthen resilience — while allowing schools to lead the way in sustainable innovation.

• Updates from the latest ISBA news and bulletin headlines
• How AI-powered battery systems help schools optimise solar energy use
• Understanding fully funded energy models and how they deliver savings
• Case studies from schools already benefitting from these innovations
• Practical steps towards achieving energy independence and carbon reduction

Paul Gregory, Group Commercial Director, HSEnergy Group

Paul specialises in energy strategy and sustainable infrastructure, working with schools and public sector organisations to deliver efficient, cost-effective solutions that combine renewable generation, storage, and intelligent optimisation.

• ISBA Bulletin and News Headlines: available via www.theisba.org.uk
• See more from HSEnergy at www.hsenergy.co.uk
• Contact: [email protected] for details on school energy projects
• ISBA Sustainability Resources and Guidance Notes (Reference Library)

If 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 [email protected].

And don’t forget — ISBA members can access additional sustainability resources and guidance in the ISBA Reference Library after listening.

Email: [email protected] – 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.