Charting the Course: Catholic Independent Schools Embrace Courage and Collaboration for the Future
Following on from the recent publication of the report ‘The Future of Catholic Independent Schools in the UK: A Strategic Call to Safeguard Our Mission’, the Catholic Independent Schools’ Conference (CISC) recently convened its Annual Leadership Briefing, “Charting the Course: Innovative Pathways for Securing the Future of Catholic Independent Schools,” on Monday, October 13, 2025, at St Benedict’s School in Ealing. This vital one-day event brought together dedicated leaders during what is an undeniably demanding time, demonstrating a deep and shared commitment to the enduring mission of Catholic education.
The spirit of the day was defined by both candid realism and profound faith. Discussions were challenging and essential, centred on strategic agility, long-term sustainability, and the courage required to navigate inevitable change within the sector. The collective wisdom shared among the CISC network reinforced a fundamental truth: we are stronger when we support each other through uncertainty, anchored by our core mission.
Key Pathways for a Secure Future
The briefing sessions focused sharply on strategic survival and the practical steps required to ensure the long-term viability of our schools.
- Facing Uncertainty with Candour and Compassion
Perhaps the most moving and essential session was led by Jack Murphy and Rachael Shields, who offered an incredibly generous and honest reflection on the deeply difficult and emotional journey of a school closure. Their willingness to speak candidly provided invaluable lessons for all leaders, emphasising the need to approach uncertainty with clarity and compassion. Their wisdom will undoubtedly better equip fellow school leaders to support their communities when faced with such difficult decisions, ensuring the human and spiritual element remains paramount.
- The Mandate for Strategic Agility
Anjali Kothari’s session, “Are You Agile?,” served as a timely and practical challenge to move beyond wishful thinking and embrace realistic planning. The key takeaway was the necessity for leaders to plan based on current and projected pupil attraction. She provided a robust framework for long-term sustainability that included preparing for all eventualities, even the necessity of a longer approach to managed closure. This approach empowers leaders to make necessary, timely changes to secure their school’s viability.
- Building Strength Through Structural Unity
Collaboration emerged as a critical theme, with expert insights demystifying the process of structural change, including mergers, acquisitions, and collaborative group models.
- Dan Leaman shared reflections on the clear advantages of school groups, stressing that the path to merger depends on identifying a shared culture and purpose that goes beyond balance sheets. He highlighted the importance of thorough due diligence and achieving economies of scale.
- Stephen Ravenscroft from Stone King provided clear guidance on the practical and legal considerations of structural change, framing the process not merely as a legal transaction, but as a strategic and fundamentally human endeavour.
- Managing Risk and Financial Viability
Adding a critical layer to the discussion on sustainability, Mike Albinson from Gallagher Insurance shared his expert experience of trends in the insurance sector for Catholic independent schools. His insights underscored the importance of proactive risk management and proper governance structures in securing favourable terms. This session served as a practical reminder that financial viability is intrinsically linked to effectively managing risk across the property, liability, and governance landscapes.
- Remaining Faithful to the Core Mission
The day concluded with an encouraging and enlightening look at new models of Catholic education. Hugh Dickinson presented the inspiring work of Concept Education and the Catholic Schools’ Trust. His insights demonstrated how schools can successfully navigate profound structural change while remaining absolutely faithful to their Catholic mission and faith-based educational commitment. The focus remains on passing the faith to the next generation, regardless of the structural framework.
The collective expertise shared across all sessions has already sparked vital, necessary conversations among the CISC community. Members present voted to establish a permanent, CES/CBCEW-linked body under CISC to coordinate strategy for survival, mission, and growth and collaboratively develop strategies to ensure the future viability and distinctiveness of Catholic independent schools in the face of current and anticipated challenges. We look forward to setting up the new Catholic Independent Schools Group as quickly as possible and warmly welcome any volunteers keen to help drive this exciting next chapter of collaboration.
Thank you again to all our Headline Sponsors Stone King, Moore Kingston Smith, Gallaghers Insurance, our expert panel, speakers and delegates for your dedication to “Charting the Course,” and finally, of course, our grateful thanks to Joe Smith, Luke Ramsden and the team at St Benedict’s, Ealing for the excellent hospitality.
Sarah Barreto
General Secretary
CISC
