{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/68b04f352dd519b5b4708280/6adb85f34395ebfbf15278a9?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"ISBA BURSARCAST // School Website Security Alert, Parent Contracts & Employment Law (23rd October 2026)","description":"<p>An urgent cyber security warning, changes to school parent contracts, and new employment law obligations are among the key developments affecting independent schools this week.</p><p><br></p><p>In this episode of the <strong>ISBA Bursarcast</strong>, we bring you a concise roundup of the latest operational, regulatory and sector news, highlighting the developments that bursars, heads and senior leadership teams need to have on their radar.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>This week&#39;s key stories include:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Cyber security – urgent PHP vulnerability:</strong> The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has issued an alert concerning a serious PHP security vulnerability. With many independent school websites potentially affected, schools are being urged to check their systems and take appropriate action.</li><li><strong>Updated ISBA Model Parent Contract:</strong> The 2026–27 model contract introduces changes covering fees, deposits, parental behaviour and school closure. What should schools be reviewing?</li><li><strong>Employment law – third-party harassment:</strong> New duties taking effect on 30 October 2026 raise important questions about protecting school employees from harassment by parents, visitors and other third parties.</li><li><strong>Flexible working and bereavement leave:</strong> Forthcoming employment reforms could have significant implications for school staffing policies and operational planning.</li><li><strong>Inspection and compliance:</strong> ISBA clarifies the position on School Food Standards and publishing remote learning arrangements.</li><li><strong>Sector updates:</strong> Members approve resolutions connected to the proposed ISBA–AGBIS merger, while the closure of Rendcomb College presents an opportunity for schools to acquire equipment through an online auction.</li></ul><p>We also highlight the latest issue of <em>The Bursar&#39;s Review</em>, upcoming regional meetings and professional development opportunities.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Further information</strong></p><p><br></p><p>ISBA members can access the full bulletin, updated guidance, model documents and supporting resources through the <strong>ISBA Reference Library</strong>.</p><p><br></p><p>For the latest independent school news, compliance updates and practical insights for bursars and senior leaders, subscribe to the <strong>ISBA Bursarcast</strong> on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform.</p>","author_name":"ISBA"}