Finance and insurance group The Brightstar Group has launched Schools-Finance to help independent schools with a range of funding needs, such as banking facility reviews, debt restructuring, estate development finance, property acquisition, working capital facilities, sustainability projects and investment plans, The Intermediary has reported.

Schools-Finance managing director Clare Jupp said: “Independent schools are facing an increasingly complex operating environment. Alongside delivering outstanding education, many are also looking at how they can strengthen their long-term financial sustainability, invest in their facilities and maximise the value of their assets.

“Schools-Finance has been created to provide schools with access to specialist funding expertise that understands both the opportunities and challenges they face.

“Whether a school is looking to refinance existing facilities, fund development projects, improve cash flow flexibility or invest in future growth, our role is to help identify the right funding strategy and connect them with the most appropriate lenders and funding partners.”

Schools-Finance has also become a corporate partner of the Schools’ Enterprise Association (SEA), which supports more than 250 schools across the independent sector helping them with commercial opportunities to make better use of their assets and develop income streams that support their educational aims.

The SEA’s chief executive Dorothy McLaren said: “The Schools’ Enterprise Association is doing important work helping schools think creatively about their futures and how they can make the most of their assets while always keeping education at the heart of their decision-making.

“Our vision is to support schools as they plan for the future, invest in their estates and create sustainable foundations for future generations.

“We are pleased to welcome Schools-Finance to the SEA where they will join a valued group of trusted corporate partners who are on hand to provide support and advice wherever needed.

“Schools increasingly need trusted specialist partners who understand both the educational environment but also the funding landscape.”