| | | | | | | | | | Technology, cybersecurity and safeguarding
Independent schools face increasing risks from cybercrime, ransomware, and phishing attacks, as well as challenges from social media and artificial intelligence used by pupils. Governing bodies should regularly review cybersecurity and safeguarding policies, ensure staff and pupil training is up to date, and maintain evidence of oversight. Safeguarding should remain a standing agenda item at board meetings. Governance and internal assurance
Strong governance is a key priority for regulators, including the Charity Commission, ISI, and ISC. Boards should review structures, internal assurance arrangements, and the follow-up of audit or review recommendations. Demonstrating effective oversight of risk management, safeguarding, and financial sustainability is critical for maintaining stakeholder confidence. | | Financial sustainability and the introduction of VAT
Rising staffing, energy, and maintenance costs continue to challenge the sector. From 1 January 2025, VAT on school fees represented a major change. Schools should stress-test budgets under various fee and pupil scenarios, review reserves policies, and ensure medium-term financial plans are resilient to economic or regulatory changes. | | | | Sustainability and ESG reporting
Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting is becoming increasingly important. While not yet mandatory, early adopters benefit from improved reputation and preparedness. Boards should consider ESG or sustainability strategies, including measuring energy use and carbon footprint, reviewing supplier sustainability, setting achievable reduction targets, and supporting social responsibility initiatives.
Regulatory and legal developments
Schools should remain alert to changes in employment law, data protection, and safeguarding regulations. The Charity Commission’s guidance on Responsible Investment may influence investment strategies and disclosure. Governing bodies should ensure that governance policies, whistleblowing procedures, and risk registers are regularly reviewed, and that inspection readiness remains a standing priority. | | | | If you wish to discuss this further, please contact one of our Education team members here at James Cowper Kreston. If you would like to arrange a virtual meeting to discuss your specific circumstances in relation to any of the above, please get in touch with your usual contact within James Cowper Kreston or contact me using the details below.
Sam West Audit Manager T: +44 (0)7823 353589 E: SWest@jamescowper.co.uk | | | | | | The information in this newsletter must not be relied on as giving sufficient advice in any specific case. | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
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