ISBA
ISBA
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS’ BURSARS ASSOCIATION
The Independent Schools’ Bursars Association (ISBA) is the only national association representing those who lead the business and operation of independent schools. ISBA provides high-quality resources, expert guidance and practical tools that help support strategic planning and the smooth running of day-to-day operations in an increasingly challenging landscape. By equipping school business leaders with what they need to stay informed and resilient, ISBA helps schools focus on what matters most educating pupils.
ISBA can trace its origins to the Public Schools Bursars’ Association, which held its first general meeting on 26 April 1932 at Epsom College. It became the Independent Schools’ Bursars Association in 1983 and has continued to evolve to meet the needs of schools across the sector.
Today, ISBA supports around 1,300 independent schools. From smaller preparatory schools to large boarding and day schools and international associate schools, with the bursar (or equivalent) serving as the nominated representative.
ISBA is a constituent member of the Independent Schools Council (ISC) and works closely with the other seven other ISC associations. Through representation on the ISC Governing Council and various committees, ISBA contributes strategic and operational insight from their member schools to help shape sector-wide thinking. It is also regularly invited to contribute to discussion with bodies such as the Department for Education, the Health & Safety Executive and Teachers’ Pensions.
Full membership is open to schools belonging to the constituent associations of the ISC, while associate membership is open to certain other schools/organisations which are recognised as educational charities.
ISBA’s support is available to all senior operational leaders, including bursars, finance directors, chief operations officers, business managers and their functional teams across financial management, risk management, regulatory compliance, facilities management, HR, technology, environmental sustainability and wider school operations.
ISBA’s services are available to all staff within a member school and designed to help managers stay ahead of change and make informed, confident decisions. Support includes:
A Reference Library with more than 2,000 contracts, templates and model policies, helping schools save time and stay compliant.
A professional development programme offering timely and topical free webinars and in-person conferences, providing sector updates, legal and regulatory clarity and keynote thinking.
The Annual Conference (11 to 13 May 2026), giving space to think away from school, share challenges, explore solutions, connect with 180+ exhibitors and hear from leading experts to bring practical ideas back into school.
The Data Navigator benchmarking tool to support financial planning, scenario development and strategic decision-making.
The Bursar’s Review magazine, regular e-bulletins and podcasts sharing the latest contextual, legal, financial, HR and operational developments affecting schools.
A recruitment service offering free advice and a job vacancy board, alongside paid services including recruitment support, interim bursars, bursar appraisals, guidance on complex change projects and confidential mentoring.
The Business Directory, providing easy access to businesses that understand and support the independent school sector.
The ISBA Board is led by the Chair, Amanda Webb, Bursar at Lady Barn House School, and includes between eight and 12 bursars from leading independent schools.
The Independent Schools’ Bursars Association is a Registered Charity, number 1121757, and a Company Limited by Guarantee, registered in England and Wales, number 6410037.
Chief Executive: Mr David Woodgate
Independent Schools’ Bursars Association
167-169 Great Portland Street, 5th Floor, London, W1W 5PF