Programme for the day
Join us for a strategic, insight‑rich online event designed for school leaders, governors, and trustees navigating the complex landscape of mergers, acquisitions, and school financial sustainability. Penningtons Manches Cooper will outline the essential considerations for any school preparing to enter the market, what an acquiring school should expect to access during due diligence, the broad stages of the acquisition process, the key risks for both parties, and the critical points at which a transaction can still be halted. Philip Watkins from FRP will spotlight the early warning signs of financial fragility—from persistent operating deficits and declining rolls to unsustainable debt, capital‑works backlogs, and leadership instability—helping Boards recognise when action is needed. Emily Richards from Stickman will also explore the communications imperatives that determine success: maintaining the confidence of current parents, inspiring prospective families with a forward‑looking offer, and giving staff a clear, robust vision for the merged culture. This session offers a rare, joined‑up view of the operational, financial, and human factors that shape successful school mergers and acquisitions.
This online course will consist of four sessions run by restructuring, legal and marketing experts on Mergers and Acquisitions in the sector covering:
- Warning signs, what to analyse to make sure the school is in good financial health
- Initial approaches, deciding the strategy, communications
- Outlining the legal work required.
- Panel discussion Q&A
John Murphie
Hannah McIlwraith
