Bursar’s Review Spring 2021

5 @the_isba Spring 2021 £6.99 | TheOfficialMagazineof the ISBA Spring2021 The Bursar’s Review Spring 2021 Socialresponsibility– compliancewith the ModernSlaveryAct Page22 Racialequality in schools– inclusion andequalityplans Page28 Staffmorale, mentalhealth andwellbeing Page 40 GRASPING OPPORTUNITIES & MANAGING RISKS Page14 Spring2021_COVER.indd 1 18/02/2021 12:01 Check List TOP TIPS This year we will have to deal with the impact of Brexit, the vaccine rollout, an increased emphasis on tackling climate change and, potentially, a very different way of making decisions and doing politics. All of these will impact on schools and mean that decisions will need to be made but it is about utilising opportunities as well as managing risks. PAGE 14 Out of all the articles in this issue of the Bursar’s Review, we have agged up some of the critical topics for your ‘to do’ list. Compliance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015 • Look at your supply chains to avoid being associated with modern slavery • If you have any concerns act swiftly and take advice Racial equality in schools • Address your school’s racial equality and diversity as a strategic priority • How is your school embedding an inclusive culture? Staff mental health and wellbeing • Look out for changes in behaviour or signs of difficulty coping • Maintaining effective contact will be key to monitoring staff wellbeing Financial flexibility • Lombard lending enables businesses to use capital in the most efficient way • Lombard lending increases your agility and ability to respond to shifting circumstances Facing up to financial challenges • Liquidation is not an inevitable consequence of insolvency • Work with creditors, partners and parents to come up with solutions Good governance • Undertake an annual policy review to identify any gaps on your board • Make sure any licences or consents needed are renewed and you can evidence compliance Acoustics in learning environments • Acoustics is as important as lighting and heating • Poor classroom acoustics have a negative effect on the health and performance of pupils and teachers Brexit and food supply chains • Increase your order lead time • Be prepared to order own-label goods where availability issues or cost increases occur Raise the bar of your food offering • Locally sourced food is usually cheaper, higher quality and better for your carbon footprint • Simple changes to menus may help to improve mood and enable pupils to think more clearly COVID-19 and staffing considerations • The law and the Acas Code of Practice on disciplinary and grievance procedures continues to apply during the pandemic • Schools should continue to review their financial viability and staffing requirements in the usual way HR 81 COVID-19 AND STAFFING CONSIDERATIONS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 90 ISBA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WEBINAR PROGRAMME IT 94 E-LEARNING – A BURDEN OR AN OPPORTUNITY? COFFEE BREAK 84 A DAY IN THE LIFE OF JOHN MURPHIE, ISBA'S CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER 84 80