Summary

Philip Britton MBE, Head of Foundation at Bolton School and HMC's Chair Elect, discusses the challenges and opportunities facing independent schools as we begin the new school year.

He highlights the importance of understanding your school's strategic direction and communicating clear messages to current and prospective parents.

Britton also emphasises the need for a crisis response communications plan and the importance of showcasing the positive contributions of independent schools. He discusses the impact of VAT on schools and the need for schools to adapt and find solutions that work for their specific circumstances.

Britton looks forward to his role as HMC Chair in 2025/26 and the opportunity to work with diverse schools and shape the purpose of independent schools in the modern age.

Takeaways

• Understanding your school's strategic direction is crucial for admissions and communications teams.
• Clear and consistent messaging is important for current and prospective parents.
• Having a crisis response communications plan is essential in challenging times.
• Independent schools should showcase their positive contributions to counter negative narratives.
• Schools need to adapt and find solutions that work for their specific circumstances in response to VAT.
• Philip Britton looks forward to working with diverse schools and shaping the purpose of independent schools as chair elect of HMC.

Links

www.amcis.co.uk

www.thebonjouragency.com

Welcome to Bolton School

HMC Board - HMC (The Heads' Conference)