In this week’s episode of the ISBA Bursarcast, we cover key updates that every bursar and school leader needs to know before the summer break.

In the news this week:

• The DfE confirms Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025 will be published next month, with future changes expected to reflect major safeguarding reforms.
• Postgraduate teaching apprenticeships will shorten to 9 months from August 2025 – what that means for recruitment planning.
• New clarity on employment law changes – ‘fire and rehire’ rules won’t apply until October 2026.
• Updated VAT guidance for nursery classes and what counts toward the 10% threshold.
• And we answer your Question of the Week on who to speak to about business rates advice.

Guest Segment:
We’re joined by Simon Holden and Sean Lumley from Safehire.ai, who share highlights from their recent ISBA webinar "The Art of the Possible". We explore how artificial intelligence is already transforming operational processes in schools – from recruitment to compliance – and where it could go next. It’s a practical and thought-provoking conversation about how AI can support safer, smarter decisions in independent schools.

Whether you’re looking to stay compliant, plan for staff changes, or understand what AI can (and can’t) do, this episode is packed with insights tailored to independent school operations.

Contact the podcast at [email protected]
Tune in to the ISBA Bursarcast Podcast for a comprehensive exploration of the latest in independent school finance, legal developments, and their direct relevance to UK-based institutions.

Subscribe now to stay up-to-date with the topics that matter most to you and your school community.

Independent schools vary widely in terms of their size, pupil population, location, provision and practice. Documents are offered as guidance only, in order to help schools prepare their own in a way that suits their own circumstances and reflects the needs of their own community, and the ISBA and our partners who have assisted in the production of the documents accept no liability for any claims or losses arising from their use. Before using documents from the ISBA library, and particularly after adapting them, schools should take specific legal advice

The ISBA Bursarcast is a RAFIKI STUDIO production

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 of The Bursarcast, we’ve got the latest sector updates every independent school bursar should know — from board elections and VAT tweaks to asbestos rules, data law changes, and a new part-time role at the ISBA.

🧠 Guest Spotlight: Smarter School Procurement
Are you getting value from your suppliers, or just getting by?

Procurement expert Paul Wright joins us to break down how schools can stretch budgets further, especially on catering. He shares real insights on benchmarking, contract pitfalls, and using data to get better deals without cutting corners.

🎯 What we cover:

• Where schools overspend (and how to fix it)
• Why Catering Contracts Go Wrong
• How benchmarking drives better supplier value
• Simple steps to boost procurement strategy

📌 Also this week:

• ISBA Board election results & 2025–26 leadership
• Compulsory ID checks coming to Companies House
• The new Data (Use and Access) Act – and what it means for GDPR
• Asbestos compliance – key duties and a cautionary case study
• ISBA is hiring – part-time advisory role now open
• ISC’s Celebrating Partnerships booklet – entries now open
• VAT CGS threshold changes – what’s coming and when
• TPS planning support – new webinars & updates

Whether you’re focused on compliance, contracts, or cutting costs, this episode’s got what you need to stay ahead.

Find more from Quenelles here 

Contact the podcast at [email protected]
Tune in to the ISBA Bursarcast Podcast for a comprehensive exploration of the latest in independent school finance, legal developments, and their direct relevance to UK-based institutions.

Subscribe now to stay up-to-date with the topics that matter most to you and your school community.

Independent schools vary widely in terms of their size, pupil population, location, provision and practice. Documents are offered as guidance only, in order to help schools prepare their own in a way that suits their own circumstances and reflects the needs of their own community, and the ISBA and our partners who have assisted in the production of the documents accept no liability for any claims or losses arising from their use. Before using documents from the ISBA library, and particularly after adapting them, schools should take specific legal advice

The ISBA Bursarcast is a RAFIKI STUDIO production

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 of the Bursarcast, we are joined by Julie Robinson (CEO, ISC) to go over the latest insights around the recent legal challenge brought by the ISC to the High Court around VAT on Independent School Fees. 

Alongside our chat with Julie, we bring you the latest sector insights from the ISBA, including:

🛡️ Operation Encompass Update
Why police notifications about domestic abuse are still failing to reach schools on time — and what every DSL needs to know.

⚖️ Whistleblowing Ruling
We unpack Sullivan v Isle of Wight Council — and explain why external job applicants (outside the NHS) aren’t protected as whistleblowers.

🚨 Scam Alert
Schools are being targeted with fake emails offering delegate lists from ISBA’s Annual Conference. A reminder: we never share member data.

📅 Webinars to Watch
Your quick preview of what’s coming up, from TPS strategy and legal shifts to AI applications and VAT handling best practice.

Contact the podcast at [email protected]
Tune in to the ISBA Bursarcast Podcast for a comprehensive exploration of the latest in independent school finance, legal developments, and their direct relevance to UK-based institutions.

Subscribe now to stay up-to-date with the topics that matter most to you and your school community.

Independent schools vary widely in terms of their size, pupil population, location, provision and practice. Documents are offered as guidance only, in order to help schools prepare their own in a way that suits their own circumstances and reflects the needs of their own community, and the ISBA and our partners who have assisted in the production of the documents accept no liability for any claims or losses arising from their use. Before using documents from the ISBA library, and particularly after adapting them, schools should take specific legal advice

The ISBA Bursarcast is a RAFIKI STUDIO production

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 of the ISBA Bursarcast, we cover the key updates for independent schools this week, including:

• Voting now open for the 2025 ISBA Board elections
• High Court judgment on VAT and school fees expected today
• Updated VAT guidance on pre-registration input tax claims
• DfE policy updates on childcare, school trips, and AI in education
• Important ISI reminder on updating online diaries
• Fraud alert: fake procurement scam targeting suppliers
• HSE course on managing work-related stress
• Free IT asset disposal offer for ISBA schools
• This week’s inspection tip: fire safety compliance

Stay informed in under 10 minutes. For links and full details, visit the ISBA Reference Library.

Contact the podcast at [email protected]
Tune in to the ISBA Bursarcast Podcast for a comprehensive exploration of the latest in independent school finance, legal developments, and their direct relevance to UK-based institutions.

Subscribe now to stay up-to-date with the topics that matter most to you and your school community.

Independent schools vary widely in terms of their size, pupil population, location, provision and practice. Documents are offered as guidance only, in order to help schools prepare their own in a way that suits their own circumstances and reflects the needs of their own community, and the ISBA and our partners who have assisted in the production of the documents accept no liability for any claims or losses arising from their use. Before using documents from the ISBA library, and particularly after adapting them, schools should take specific legal advice

The ISBA Bursarcast is a RAFIKI STUDIO production

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 explore The Art of The Bursar — a timely and insightful new report from the ISBA and RSAcademics. As schools face increasing complexity, financial pressure, and a fast-changing educational landscape, the role of the bursar is evolving beyond operations into strategic leadership.

Our guest, Heather Styche-Patel, CEO of RSAcademics, joins us to unpack the report’s key findings. Together, we examine how the bursar’s role is evolving, what this means for the future of school leadership, and how Heads and Governors can foster stronger, more collaborative relationships with their bursars.

🎧 In this episode:

• Why this research matters now
• What’s changing in the role of the bursar — and what’s not
• The skills and mindset needed for next-generation bursars
• How school leadership teams can better support operational leaders
• Key recommendations for Heads, Chairs, and HR leads

We also have the week's headlines, covering 

• ISC Census
• Teachers pay rise 
• HSBC webinar
• Covid-19 enquiry
• Year 11 attendance - Post exams

📄 Resources & Links:

• Download the report: The Art of the Bursar via the ISBA Reference Library for members or head to the RSAcademics website: https://www.rsacademics.com

Contact the podcast at [email protected]
Tune in to the ISBA Bursarcast Podcast for a comprehensive exploration of the latest in independent school finance, legal developments, and their direct relevance to UK-based institutions.

Subscribe now to stay up-to-date with the topics that matter most to you and your school community.

Independent schools vary widely in terms of their size, pupil population, location, provision and practice. Documents are offered as guidance only, in order to help schools prepare their own in a way that suits their own circumstances and reflects the needs of their own community, and the ISBA and our partners who have assisted in the production of the documents accept no liability for any claims or losses arising from their use. Before using documents from the ISBA library, and particularly after adapting them, schools should take specific legal advice

The ISBA Bursarcast is a RAFIKI STUDIO production

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 post-conference episode of the Bursarcast, we're joined by Sue Roxby, ISBA's Head of Advice and Guidance, to reflect on all the highlights, insights, and moments of connection from the ISBA Annual Conference 2025 in Manchester.

We unpack the key themes that emerged from sessions, touch on what we heard from members on the ground, and share what’s next as we turn our attention to the summer term and beyond. Whether you were with us in person or catching up from afar, this episode brings you back into the conversation.

Plus, we take a moment to say a heartfelt thank you to all our members for your continued engagement and support — from questions to conversations, you make the ISBA community what it is.

In this episode:

• A behind-the-scenes look at the 2025 Conference
• Highlights from advice surgeries and member feedback
• What’s on Sue’s radar as we move into the second half of the term
• A general check-in and thank-you from the ISBA team
• New features on the podcast
• Feedback survey requests

🎧 Tune in now and stay connected with your community.

Contact the podcast at [email protected]
Tune in to the ISBA Bursarcast Podcast for a comprehensive exploration of the latest in independent school finance, legal developments, and their direct relevance to UK-based institutions.

Subscribe now to stay up-to-date with the topics that matter most to you and your school community.

Independent schools vary widely in terms of their size, pupil population, location, provision and practice. Documents are offered as guidance only, in order to help schools prepare their own in a way that suits their own circumstances and reflects the needs of their own community, and the ISBA and our partners who have assisted in the production of the documents accept no liability for any claims or losses arising from their use. Before using documents from the ISBA library, and particularly after adapting them, schools should take specific legal advice

The ISBA Bursarcast is a RAFIKI STUDIO production

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 packed episode of The Bursarcast, we bring you the latest policy and legal updates every independent school bursar should be across, including new developments in employment law, protections for zero-hours workers, and a landmark report redefining the role of the bursar itself.

We also highlight a must-read feature on staffing cost-saving strategies from Farrer & Co — a practical guide for schools navigating tough financial terrain.

🧠 Guest Segment: Understanding Risk in 2025
We’re joined by Ian Morgan and Dom Haigh from Assured Partners, headline sponsors of this year’s ISBA Conference, to unpack the risk landscape facing independent schools in 2025. From cyber threats and AI to rising costs and VAT, Ian and Dom share what bursars need to know — and what they can do next.

🎯 Key Talking Points:
• Managing rising costs and financial exposures
• Cyber security: growing risks, smarter defences
• Crisis planning and the growing role of AI
• Why property valuations shouldn’t be a “once and done” exercise
• Multi-insurer solutions: a stronger, smarter approach to risk

Whether you're fine-tuning your budgets, reviewing contracts, or planning long-term resilience, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you stay ahead.

Find more from Assured Partners 

Contact the podcast at [email protected]
Tune in to the ISBA Bursarcast Podcast for a comprehensive exploration of the latest in independent school finance, legal developments, and their direct relevance to UK-based institutions.

Subscribe now to stay up-to-date with the topics that matter most to you and your school community.

Independent schools vary widely in terms of their size, pupil population, location, provision and practice. Documents are offered as guidance only, in order to help schools prepare their own in a way that suits their own circumstances and reflects the needs of their own community, and the ISBA and our partners who have assisted in the production of the documents accept no liability for any claims or losses arising from their use. Before using documents from the ISBA library, and particularly after adapting them, schools should take specific legal advice

The ISBA Bursarcast is a RAFIKI STUDIO production

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 of Bursarcast, we’re joined by Ben Lowe from TG Escapes to explore how biophilic design and modular construction are reshaping educational spaces.

Celebrating 21 years and over 800 completed projects, TG Escapes is leading the way in creating sustainable, carbon-neutral environments that meet the evolving needs of schools, including adaptable spaces for neurodiverse students.

Ben shares practical insights on today’s biggest facilities challenges, the benefits of nature-inspired design, and why smart, sustainable spaces are no longer a luxury but a necessity.

🎧 Listen in for ideas to inspire your next capital project.

Contact the podcast at [email protected]
Tune in to the ISBA Bursarcast Podcast for a comprehensive exploration of the latest in independent school finance, legal developments, and their direct relevance to UK-based institutions.

Subscribe now to stay up-to-date with the topics that matter most to you and your school community.

Independent schools vary widely in terms of their size, pupil population, location, provision and practice. Documents are offered as guidance only, in order to help schools prepare their own in a way that suits their own circumstances and reflects the needs of their own community, and the ISBA and our partners who have assisted in the production of the documents accept no liability for any claims or losses arising from their use. Before using documents from the ISBA library, and particularly after adapting them, schools should take specific legal advice

The ISBA Bursarcast is a RAFIKI STUDIO production

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 of the podcast, we are joined by Stewart Ward, Head of School Fee Plan, to discuss how independent schools are approaching their financial strategy in 2025 amidst growing concerns around affordability, fee structures, and the need for long-term planning. 

Stewart shares insights on how schools can 

• Adopt more agile financial strategies
• Reassess fee models
• Engage parents on payment options. 

We delve into the evolving role of the bursar, the strategic use of credit facilities, and how schools can manage financial risks and build greater financial agility.

Tune in for expert advice on navigating economic volatility, enhancing financial sustainability, and supporting families in the independent school sector.

We are also joined by John Murphie to discuss the upcoming ISBA Annual Conference programme. Last chance to book!

Support John's chosen charity here

Contact the podcast at [email protected]
Tune in to the ISBA Bursarcast Podcast for a comprehensive exploration of the latest in independent school finance, legal developments, and their direct relevance to UK-based institutions.

Subscribe now to stay up-to-date with the topics that matter most to you and your school community.

Independent schools vary widely in terms of their size, pupil population, location, provision and practice. Documents are offered as guidance only, in order to help schools prepare their own in a way that suits their own circumstances and reflects the needs of their own community, and the ISBA and our partners who have assisted in the production of the documents accept no liability for any claims or losses arising from their use. Before using documents from the ISBA library, and particularly after adapting them, schools should take specific legal advice

The ISBA Bursarcast is a RAFIKI STUDIO production

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 of The Bursarcast, we’re joined by Robin Bidgood and Scott Morley, Managing Directors at Holroyd Howe, to explore how independent schools can respond to the fast-changing landscape of school dining.

They unpack the impact of recent government policy shifts, economic pressures, and rising food and labour costs. The conversation highlights the growing importance of sustainable and seasonal sourcing, efficient waste management, and maintaining quality and standards under financial strain.

We also discuss how caterers and schools can collaborate to:

• Promote nutrition and sustainability among pupils
• Build flexibility into menu planning
• Strengthen communication and long-term partnerships

📢 Plus, we kick off the episode with a roundup of the latest sector news – key updates that every bursar and school business leader should have on their radar.

Whether you're reviewing your catering contract or rethinking your whole approach to food in schools, this episode offers strategic insight and practical advice.

Contact the podcast at [email protected]
Tune in to the ISBA Bursarcast Podcast for a comprehensive exploration of the latest in independent school finance, legal developments, and their direct relevance to UK-based institutions.

Subscribe now to stay up-to-date with the topics that matter most to you and your school community.

Independent schools vary widely in terms of their size, pupil population, location, provision and practice. Documents are offered as guidance only, in order to help schools prepare their own in a way that suits their own circumstances and reflects the needs of their own community, and the ISBA and our partners who have assisted in the production of the documents accept no liability for any claims or losses arising from their use. Before using documents from the ISBA library, and particularly after adapting them, schools should take specific legal advice

The ISBA Bursarcast is a RAFIKI STUDIO production

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.