ISBA BURSARCAST // Shaping the Future of Independent Schools – Insights from ISBA’s Sue Roxby (9th August, 2025)

In this episode of the ISBA Bursarcast, we speak with Sue Roxby, ISBA’s Head of Advice and Guidance, about the forthcoming member survey and the wider issues currently affecting independent schools.

Sue shares how the survey will work this year, what it aims to achieve, and why input from members will be vital in shaping ISBA’s strategy. The discussion also covers the key considerations for bursars and school leaders as the new academic year begins – from budgets and forecasting to compliance, VAT, pensions, and safeguarding.

Listeners will also hear updates on:

• The Teachers’ Pension Scheme rate change due in 2027
• Handling fees in advance and recent media interest
• Developments in safeguarding and allergy awareness
• Sustainability planning and government expectations
• The impact of VAT on bursary provision and how schools can respond

This episode offers clear, practical guidance for leaders looking to make informed decisions and navigate the challenges and opportunities facing the independent school sector.

Contact the podcast at [email protected]
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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

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