ISBA BURSARCAST // Inspections, the new normal ft.Durell Barnes ( 26th September 2025)
Understanding the new Inspections Framework, and sector updates
ISBA BURSARCAST · ISBA
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Show Notes
This week, we’re diving into a topic that’s always on the radar for school leaders and operational staff: inspections.
Joining us is:
Durell Barnes, consultant and inspections expert
Together, we explore how to stay inspection-ready without letting it become an operational drain.
Topics include:
- The latest thinking on compliance and safeguarding
- What inspectors are really looking for in 2025
- Practical steps schools can take this term to feel confident and prepared
We also highlight a brand-new inspection webinar now available in the ISBA Reference Library, designed to help bursars, DSLs and leadership teams navigate the process clearly and calmly.
🔐 Sector News You Can’t Miss:
This week’s bulletin includes several key updates:
- VAT and bursary grants – why HMRC sees some charitable support as taxable, and what that means for schools
- New PRS & PPL Digital Music Licences – covering digital streaming, video use and internal music storage
- Recruitment spotlight – Cransley School seeks a Director of Finance
- NAB Cohort #16 – Meeting 2 on Safeguarding & SCR (29 Sept) and Meeting 3 on Finance & Mentoring (8 Oct)
- So You Want to Be a Bursar – Feb 2026 programme now open for booking
📌 Resources & Links Mentioned:
- ISBA Reference Library – inspection webinar and all bulletin documentation
- CEFM Contact – for queries about digital music licences
- ISBA Advice & Guidance Team – for VAT or bursary grant queries
- Membership Support – help accessing NAB sessions: [email protected]
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Email: [email protected] – we’d love to hear from you.
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