In this week’s episode, we’re tackling two key areas that are front of mind for many school leaders right now: crisis leadership and inspection readiness.

[News Round-Up | 00:00 – 04:00]

We start with the latest sector updates, including insights from the newly released ISI Annual Review of Inspections 2024–25. With a notable dip in compliance rates — down to 82.1% for routine inspections — we highlight where schools are falling short and what lessons can be drawn, particularly in areas such as safeguarding, attendance, and safer recruitment checks.

We also look at the recent update to ISBA’s Attendance Policy Template, following reports from members that inspectors are expecting to see statutory attendance codes included in documentation. While not a formal regulatory requirement, we explore why it may now be considered best practice and what has changed in the updated template.

[Guest Interview | 4.00 – End]

Our guest this week is Richard Gordon, Director of the Bournemouth University Disaster Management Centre. Richard brings decades of expertise in crisis management and has worked closely with ISBA on enhancing leadership readiness in the independent sector.

In this conversation, we explore:

• Why school leadership teams must move beyond reactive crisis management
• The value of scenario-based exercises, even when time is tight
• Key crisis scenarios schools should prepare for — from safeguarding issues to reputational risks
• How better planning could also support schools' relationships with insurers
• And what the next evolution of crisis capability might look like for independent schools

If you’re thinking about resilience planning, preparing for the unexpected, or improving decision-making under pressure, this one’s not to be missed.

📌 Resources and links mentioned:

• ISI Annual Review of Inspections 2024–25
• ISBA Webinar: Preparing for Inspection – The New Normal
• ISBA Reference Library – Updated Attendance Policy Template

💡 For further guidance on inspections, compliance, or crisis planning, ISBA members can contact the Advice and Guidance team or browse additional materials in the Reference Library.

📣 Not yet a member? Learn more about how ISBA supports independent schools at theisba.org.uk

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