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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 miss Resources 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: [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 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 contracts 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/ Subscribe & FollowNew episodes every Friday at 4pm. Follow to stay informed on the latest in independent school operations. 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.

“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] – 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.

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 waste Whether 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] – 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 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 avoid Resources 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 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 2026Useful Links: Verify your identity with Companies House – GOV.UKCorrecting VAT errors – GOV.UKFinance 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 www.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 arrangements Key Action Points Update 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 inspections Links & 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 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. 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 Week Links mentionedISBA WebsiteISC WebsitePartnerships 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. 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 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. 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? [email protected] 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. 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 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. 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 [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. 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 opportunities Key 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 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. In This EpisodeWhy 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.Key TakeawayFundraising 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. Resources[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. Highlights include:Updates from the latest ISBA news and bulletin headlinesHow AI-powered battery systems help schools optimise solar energy useUnderstanding fully funded energy models and how they deliver savingsCase studies from schools already benefitting from these innovationsPractical steps towards achieving energy independence and carbon reductionGuest InformationPaul 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. Resources & Links MentionedISBA Bulletin and News Headlines: available via www.theisba.org.ukSee more from HSEnergy at www.hsenergy.co.ukContact: [email protected] for details on school energy projectsISBA Sustainability Resources and Guidance Notes (Reference Library)Stay 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 [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.

In this edition of Bursarcast, we bring you a crisp, up‑to‑date news roundup followed by a deep dive with Kieran Smith and Josie Morgan Jones from Crowe, discussing VAT issues for independent schools. Highlights include: The 2025 refresh of ISBA’s parent contract templates, and the new offer letter and bursary conditions documentsISBA’s confidential mentoring service: what it is and how it worksA refreshed policy on Martyn’s Law, and how it’s shaping requirements for education settingsClarification on the DfE / ISI inspectorate transfer process for schools that join a recognised associationThen we hand over to Sue Roxby to host Kieran and Josie from Crowe for the VAT segment, where we’ll explore key issues, upcoming risks, and practical steps for schools. Guest InformationKieran Smith & Josie Morgan Jones, Crowe Experts in tax, accounting and charitable status in education, Kieran and Josie join us to unpack VAT challenges facing independent schools, especially where bursaries, grants, and income streams intersect. Resources & Links MentionedISBA Reference Library: 2025 Parent Contract templates & comparison toolRecording of the ISBA webinar on the parent contract updatesGOV.UK: policy paper on Martyn’s Law (10 October update)DfE / ISI inspectorate transfer guidanceContact for ISBA mentoring service: Lucy Wyatt ➜ [email protected] and Kieran: [email protected], [email protected] Stay Connected & Next StepsIf you found this episode useful, please follow/subscribe on your preferred podcast platform. Have questions, or want us to cover a topic in a future episode? Email us at [email protected]. And if you’re an ISBA member, don’t forget to check your Reference Library after listening — those updated templates and supplementary materials will be there for you. 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.