ISBA BURSARCAST // Inspection readiness, employment reform, and staffing risks—three critical areas that independent schools need to stay on top of. ( 28th November 2025)

2025-11-28

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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...

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 Learn

Why ISI compliance rates have dropped—and the two areas most schools are struggling with
Practical steps to improve inspection readiness, based on real inspection findings
What’s changing with the HR1 Form from 1 December 2025—and how to prepare
How the Employment Rights Bill will restrict “fire and rehire” and casual staffing arrangements
Why spring 2026 is a critical window for contractual changes before new rules apply

Key Action Points

Review leadership oversight of safeguarding and attendance compliance
Update 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 advance
Plan staffing reviews now—consult early to retain flexibility ahead of October 2026
Use the ISBA Advice & Guidance team to sense-check inspection readiness and staffing plans

Links & Resources