ISBA BURSARCAST

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 sti...

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...

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....

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...

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 guid...

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...

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...

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...

In this episode of The ISBA Bursarcast , we welcome Tim James, Chairman of Schoolblazer , to explore how uniform and sportswear are evolving in the independent school sector—and why it's more strategic than you might think. Tim shares valuable insights on: How schools are aligning uniform policy with values like sustainability and inclusion The importance of supply chain resilience and ethica...

In this episode of the ISBA Bursarcast , we bring you the latest news headlines for independent school operations, including: The end of business rates relief for most private schools A look at new duties under Martyn’s Law Mental health and wellbeing support via the Working Minds campaign ISBA’s new VAT resource guide to help schools stay compliant 🎧 Plus, we sit down with Scotty Mills , a forme...

In this episode of The ISBA Bursarcast , we bring you three key updates that school bursars and operations teams need to know – from immigration changes affecting boarding pupils to increased late payment penalties, and the newly launched consultation on the Charity SORP. Then, we’re joined by Amanda Webb, the ISBA’s new Chair, for a special conversation. Amanda reflects on the independent educati...

In this episode of The ISBA Bursarcast , we welcome Richard Harris from Class Technology Solutions back to delve into the evolving world of digital infrastructure in independent schools. From managing budgets to keeping up with rapid tech developments, schools are under increasing pressure to future-proof their IT systems. Richard shares practical insights and strategic guidance on: Common misconc...

In this episode of Bursarcast , we’re joined by special guest Arun Kanwar , Managing Partner at Cairneagle , to explore how UK independent schools are adapting to a rapidly changing educational landscape. With increasing financial pressure, shifting demographics, and the potential introduction of VAT on school fees, many schools are rethinking their strategies for sustainability and growth. Arun s...

📢 Investing in Yourself: Personal Development & The ISBA Annual Conference 🎓 In this episode of Bursarcast , we explore the importance of investing in yourself as a school leader and how the first day of the ISBA Annual Conference is designed to support professional growth. We are joined by Helen Woods, ISBA Director of Development and Learning , who takes us through the conference schedule...

🚍 The Changing Landscape of Independent School Transport 🚍  Join us for a deep dive into the evolving world of independent school transport with Dominic Kalanatary , Director of Vectare . This episode explores the key challenges and opportunities facing school transport today, from shifting demographics to rising parental expectations and regulatory changes.  This is essential listening for burs...

Tune in for an Inspections special with Durell Barnes and Clare Moore. In this episode, they question whether the new framework 23 is working. They also discuss insights shared by both schools and the inspectorate. This is key listening for all independent schools. Alongside our inspection focus, we also cover Crime and Policing Bill updates Neonatal care leave updates New support for workers taki...

Tune in for a sustainability special with Nigel Aylwin-Foster from ReEnergise Group as he chats with John Murphie about the current state of energy resources for independent schools. The content is linked to the Spring '25 Bursars Review. Alongside our sustainability focus, we also cover VAT updates Upcoming Webinars Find ReEnergise here  Contact the podcast at podcast@theisba.org.uk Tune in...

Tune in for a rundown of the week's essentials for Independent Schools, covering sector topics and VAT updates . Joining us in the studio this week is Denise Allen , part of the ISBA Advice and Guidance team to walk us through some helpful new templates she has produced to make your lives easier.  Headlines this week: AI-assisted Deepfake Images of Children Early Years Qualification Requireme...

Listen to all the essential news this week and the VAT headlines from the ISBA. Headlines this week: VAT on Fees: An Important Notice for Schools Receiving an HMRC VAT Notice of Assessment Reassessing and Optimising Your Pupil Recruiting ISC VAT insights HMRC VAT for Armed Forces and CEA HMRC Webinars on VAT Top tip of the week Upcoming events and webinars ISBA support Contact the podcast at podca...

This week, Emily Richards , Founder and Director of The Stickman Consultancy, joins us to share her insight into school admissions marketing. She discusses industry trends , sector insights, and pitfalls to beware of.   Before her appearance, we hear about the following: ISI Inspections Statuatory Attendance SEND procurement Visiting music teachers Generative AI The power of Benchmarking Scams to...

Listen to all the essential news this week and the VAT headlines from the ISBA. Topics explored are:  DfE Update on Material Change Applications    Safeguarding Changes and a Mandatory Reporting Update    Cyber Security – An Increased Threat  HMRC VAT Webinars  Data Protection Implications of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI)  Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Update on Preventing Work-relat...

Listen in for this week's update to get all the essentials. Weekly updates cover: A serious incident around Pupil Images on a school website Updated Budget Template, including impact of VAT, NI and MBRR NABs courses TPT Benefit Review Top tip of the week Upcoming Webinars  Contact the podcast at podcast@theisba.org.uk Tune in to the ISBA Bursarcast Podcast for a comprehensive exploration of t...

Happy New Year! Welcome back to the term. Join us in this episode to hear from John Murphi e and his vision for the year. We also provide weekly updates and reminders of all the resources available to your school through an ISBA membership. Weekly updates cover: ISBA New Director of Advice and Guidance Fees in advance and HMRC Children's wellbeing and Schools bill Initial Teacher Training, Fu...

Join us for the final Bursarcast of the year. With John Murphie in the studio, we look back at the year, the highs, lows and challenges overcome to consider what might be in store for the next 12 months... Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all our listeners! Contact the podcast at podcast@theisba.org.uk Tune in to the ISBA Bursarcast Podcast for a comprehensive exploration of the latest in ind...

This week, Jo Hall and Hayden Hibbert from  allmanhall join us . They provide keen insight into food procurement processes and share best practices to ensure you hit nutritional, economic and sustainable goals in your school.   Alongside their appearance, we get the weeks updates to the sector. Weekly updates cover: VAT and Early Years Funding Fee's in Advance guidance   Parent Contract Safeg...