Cambridge International School and Holme Court School occupy the same building in Cambridge.

The founder and chief executive of Inspired Learning Group, Amit Mehta, explains how independent schools are navigating and embracing risk

The independent school sector is at a crossroads. With shifting economic landscapes, policy changes like the VAT on school fees, and a world moving faster than ever, schools are being called on to adapt, and many are stepping up to the challenge with clarity, creativity and confidence.

For aspirational families who expect the absolute best for their children academically, pastorally and personally, this is not a time to worry. It is a time to understand how the most forward-thinking schools are not only managing risk but using it as a catalyst for innovation, investment, and future-ready education.

Risk management reimagined – from defence to differentiation

At the Inspired Learning Group (ILG), we see strategic foresight as a catalyst for excellence, not merely a shield against risk. Our approach is rooted in bold decision-making that accelerates innovation, enriches the pupil experience, and secures long-term value for our schools and communities.

The recent acquisition of Cambridge International School is a defining example. This is not just an expansion but a deliberate move that aligns with our vision to lead in a fast-evolving educational landscape. With its strong academic heritage and culture of innovation, Cambridge International School strengthens ILG’s footprint both in the UK and on the global stage.

Our strategy is clear – invest in the future. Whether through dynamic campus development, the integration of transformative technologies, or global partnerships, we are building schools that stand apart; schools that prepare students not just for the world as it is, but for the world they will shape.

Keeping the core strong – why families choose and stay with us

In uncertain times, schools might reduce costs by trimming back subject choices, scaling down co-curricular offerings, or limiting pastoral provision. Our schools are taking a different path. We recognise that it is precisely these elements, the small class sizes, expert teaching in niche A-level subjects, the breadth of sport and performing arts, the exceptional SEND and pastoral care, that will set us apart. And we are protecting these features, not despite the challenges, but because of them.

We remain steadfast in our mission to deliver high-quality inclusive education that empowers every learner. The acquisition of Holme Court School, our first special educational needs setting, is a strategic move that not only strengthens our educational offering but also enhances our ability to navigate an increasingly complex and evolving independent schools landscape.

As the sector continues to face demographic shifts, economic pressures and changing parental expectations, diversification is key to long-term sustainability and managing risk. Holme Court School in Cambridge, with its deep expertise in personalised and specialist education, adds a vital new dimension to ILG’s portfolio and allows us to better support families seeking high-quality SEN provision for their children.

Founded by Dr Anita Sturdy with a powerful vision for inclusive education, Holme Court aligns fully with ILG’s values and strategic direction. This addition marks a significant milestone taking the Inspired Learning Group to 30 independent schools and nurseries across the UK and reflects our commitment to growing responsibly while managing risk through breadth, quality and innovation in our educational provision.

Strategic investment – enhancing the experience, not just preserving it

Leading schools are not shying away from big decisions. They are modernising school settings with sustainable pupil-centred designs. They are adopting artificial intelligence and personalised learning platforms to deliver even more tailored academic support. They are exploring innovative international collaborations and global campuses to give pupils broader horizons and new pathways.

These are not vanity projects. They are part of a long-term vision to prepare pupils not just for exams, but for the world they will inherit and lead.

Financial agility – creating stability in an unpredictable world

VAT on school fees has understandably prompted concern among families. But schools are responding with financial rigour and creative thinking. ILG is diversifying income through smart use of facilities, international partnerships, and expanded summer programmes to keep fee increases in check. We are revisiting bursary strategies to widen access. And we are maintaining strong financial reserves and contingency plans to ensure long-term resilience, no matter what the policy landscape brings.

This level of foresight gives our families confidence that their investment is protected and that our schools are built to last.

People first – why great staff make all the difference

A school is only as good as its people. That is why leading schools are doubling down on staff development, wellbeing, and leadership training. At a time of rapid change, they know that a motivated, future-facing team is essential to delivering continuity, care and excellence in every classroom. Our ILG Heads Academy trains our leaders in both educational and commercial disciplines, ensuring they are prepared for the demands of today’s changing independent school sector.

This people-first approach is paying off; teacher retention is strong, innovation is flourishing, and pupils are benefiting from a culture that values both tradition and transformation.

Reassurance for parents – what this means for you

If you are an aspirational parent considering or currently investing in a top independent education, here’s the bottom line – the best schools are not standing still. They are evolving intelligently, strategically, and in direct response to the world your child is growing up in.

They are balancing financial prudence with bold ambition. They are protecting what matters most while preparing for what comes next. And above all, they are committed to delivering an education that is not only academically elite, but human, holistic and future-ready.

Confidence in a changing climate

The independent sector has faced moments of challenge before and emerged stronger each time. Today it is no different; with clear-eyed leadership and a deep commitment to families, uncertainty is being turned into opportunity

Risk registers and strategic plans should no longer be tick box documents reviewed once a term. In today’s environment, they need to be living tools, referenced regularly, shared with staff and governors, and actively used to drive decisions. Schools that embed risk awareness into their leadership culture will be quicker to adapt, more confident in uncertainty, and better positioned to seize new opportunities when they arise.

For parents, this is not a time for hesitation. It is a time to be inspired by the vision, resilience and integrity of the schools shaping the next generation of leaders, creators and changemakers.

Amit Mehta