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2024-07-31-accounts

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

Trustees Report

and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 July 2024

Registered Charity Number 307006

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

INDEX

Page
Reference and administrative details 1
Report of the trustee 3
Independent auditor’s report 13
Statement of financial activities 16
Balance sheet 17
Statement of cash flows 18
Accounting policies 19
Notes to the accounts 22

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

Trustee

The sole trustee of the charity is a company limited by guarantee, Michael Hall School Limited, company number 539034. The directors of this company are the Council of Trustees of the charity for charity law purposes and are set out below:

W Forward (Teacher, Chair to 01/09/23) (resigned 1 September 2023)
J Angus (Parent) (appointed 27 May 2022)
J Durrant (Independent) (appointed 11 March 2024)
J Harrison (Parent) (appointed 1 September 2023)
M Hindler (Independent) (resigned 1 September 2023)
D Jones (Teacher) (appointed 1 September 2023)
L Lines (Independent) (resigned 1 September 2023)
E Maslen (Parent) (resigned 31 August 2023)
T Michaels (Parent) (appointed 23 November 2020)
R Moore (Independent) (appointed 1 September 2023)
T Souleiman (Parent) (appointed 9 December 2019)
E Tilezhinskii (Parent) (appointed 1 September 2023)
G Bog (Grandparent) (resigned 1 December 2023)
E De Carlo Davies (Grandparent) (resigned 1 December 2023)
K Whitby (Retired) (resigned 1 December 2023)
J Hulbert (Self Employed) (appointed 25 March 2025)

The Association members are the guarantors of the trustee company and hold the right to appoint or remove members of the Council of Trustees. No person may be appointed as a member unless they are an Association member.

Management

The trustees delegate the day to day management of the school to committees comprised of members of staff.

Key management personnel (throughout year to end of academic year 2022/23 unless stated otherwise)

S Stokes Principal (to August 2024)
E Hawker Acting Principal (to August 2022) Director of Studies (from September 2022)
J Courtenay Assistant Principal and Lower School Assistant Principal
R Ford-Blanchard Assistant Principal (from September 2022) and Early Years Childhood Lead
M Devaris Upper School Assistant Principal
C Parker Designated Safeguarding Lead
J Phillips SENDCO (to December 2023)
C Martin Inclusion Coordinator (from January 2024)
C Lennon Business Manager (to September 2023)
R Michael Head of People and Culture (from September 2023)
C Fullbrook Head of Finance (from October 2023)
T Sowter Head od Operations (from May 2024)

Principal office

Kidbrooke Park Priory Road Forest Row East Sussex RH18 5JA

Charity registered number

307006

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FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

Auditor

Blue Spire Limited Cawley Priory South Pallant Chichester West Sussex PO19 1SY

Solicitor

Ellis Whittham Limited Woodhouse Aldford Chester Cheshire CH3 6JD

Bankers

HSBC Barclays Bank Plc Triodos Bank 38 London Road 18 Southgate Street Brunel House East Grinstead Gloucester 11 The Promenade West Sussex GL1 2DH Bristol RH19 1AB BS8 3NN

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MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE

The Board of Directors of Michael Hall School Limited, as the Trustee of Michael Hall School have pleasure in presenting the annual report for the purposes of the Charities Act 2011, together with the accounts for the year ended 31 July 2024. The Directors have adopted the provisions of the Statement of Recommended Practice “Accounting and Reporting by Charities” (FRS 102) in preparing the annual report and financial statements of the charity.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

1.1 Context

Michael Hall School is a registered charity constituted as an unincorporated association under a Trust deed dated 21 January 1925 and the Memorandum and Articles of Association of the Trust company dated 25 September 1954 as revised. The company was established to act as a trustee of the Michael Hall School Trust, a charitable trust that operates a school in Forest Row, East Sussex. The purpose of the Trust is to provide for, and conduct, the education of children in accordance with the principles and methods of Rudolf Steiner. The sole trustee of Michael Hall School for the purposes of charity law is Michael Hall School Limited.

Michael Hall School Limited is controlled by its Board of Directors whose members are appointed or removed by Association of Company Members. The Board of Directors are known as the “Council of Trustees”. The Directors are referred to as “Trustees” and hold portfolio responsibilities that map onto the school’s priorities and refer to the Ofsted Inspection Framework that came into effect in May 2019. As an independent school, the School also adheres to the Independent School Standards (ISS).

All Trustees are selected based on the contribution that they will make to the governance of the organisation and their relevant knowledge, skills and experiences. They are supported with copies of the Charity Commission’s guidance to Trustees and introduced to the activities of the charity by the existing Board and School’s senior staff. New Trustees are inducted through a process which incorporates training in various relevant areas including Health and Safety, Safer Recruitment, Safeguarding and Child Protection.

Trustees are provided with training as and when required and there is an annual training plan for Trustees which sits alongside the School Improvement Plan (SIP). A comprehensive schedule of monitoring visits enables Trustees to hold leaders to greater account for all strategic development and post-Ofsted priorities.

The setting of pay and remuneration is completed by the Trustees with reference to publicised pay scales and benchmarked against similar roles in comparable organisations.

1.2 Risk Management

The Trustees have assessed the significant risks to which the charity is exposed.

1.3 Ofsted and ISS Inspections

In October 2024, Ofsted conducted at full Section 5 inspection including an assessment of the School's performance against the Independent Schools Standards (ISS) and found the School to be rated "Good" in all areas of:

The ISS standards were met at this inspection. The five Key Performance indicators for this year were therefore achieved but will now require maintenance.

The Principal left due to ill health in August 2024 and an experienced Acting Principal deployed in her place (who was in post at the time of the October 2024 inspection) while a robust recruitment process was undertaken to employ a

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MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE

highly skilled replacement Principal. This replacement has now been recruited and is being inducted with a thorough induction schedule put in place by Waldorf UK and the Trustees.

The School continues to work with a comprehensive School Improvement Plan (SIP) which was shared with Ofsted during the October 2024 inspection and approved by Waldorf UK and Trustees. The plan is updated regularly and used to hold leaders rigorously to account for progress against the strategic priorities.

The School continues to work closely with Waldorf UK (formerly the Steiner Waldorf Schools Fellowship), and relationships between Ofsted and Waldorf UK have seen significant improvements in the outcomes of other Steiner Waldorf organisations’ recent Ofsted inspections. The School’s relationship with Waldorf UK is strong, and the two organisations move together in partnership.

Waldorf UK continue to offer training to all staff, support to Senior Leaders and training to Ofsted in line with Steiner Waldorf education. This alignment is anticipated to continue having a positive effect on Ofsted inspections for all schools within the UK Movement.

1.4 School Leadership

The school has restructured its leadership team (SLT) into both Educational (ELT) and Business (BLT) leadership teams. The educational team comprises of the Heads of Schools, INCO and DSL. The business team are held by the Head of Finance, Head of People and Culture and the Head of Operations. The Principal heads both teams.

Unfortunately, the Principal stepped down late in the school year with the INCO choosing to leave the school in the last academic year. We plan to recruit a new Principal (as described above) and INCO over the coming 24/25 school year, whilst being held by an Acting Principal in the short term.

1.5 School Reputation

The Trustees are mindful that now the school has achieved a good Ofsted rating that the momentum of positive reputation continues. We must work hard to bring new families to the community and communicate all that a Waldorf education has to offer as well as to retain our existing families. The School enters its 100[th] year in 2025 and plans are in place to celebrate this milestone with both the staff, parent, pupil body of past and present. The school continues to have a positive presence on social media platforms as well as a new radio campaign. Access to the children’s learning, festivals and all other aspects of school life are promoted widely and this offers us a strong basis for marketing and promoting the School in a variety of ways. We continue to monitor these sites for any negative comments or feedback from individual parents, and approach these parents directly to see if we can help to resolve their issue. whilst also ensuring that comments remain in adherence to our values and Parent Code of Conduct.

1.6 Promotion of the School

Our new school website presents the School in a fresh, modern light, while still firmly grounded in Steiner principles of education and Anthroposophy. This includes a fundraising page and a donate button, making it easier for interested parties to donate to the School. Online ticketing has been introduced which has increased ticket sales for the School's events. Our newsletter on the website also includes a paid advertising section for the community.

The school is also raising is social media presence and a plan for a radio campaign to begin in Autumn 2025 to get the Michael Hall name to a wider audience and promote the school over as many channels as possible.

1.7 Finances

Other risks that Trustees carefully monitor relate to the specific operational areas of the charity and its finances. The Trustees closely monitor reserve levels, ensure controls exist over critical financial systems, and examine the operational and business risks faced by the charity. A comprehensive strategic plan for the business has been agreed, which sets out a range of desirable reinvestment opportunities for growing the fabric of the school and improving its offering and commercial performance to ensure an upturn in the organisation’s financial security.

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MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE

Following the general election on the 4[th] July 2024 the government announced plans to remove the VAT exemption from private school fees which in effect is a cost that has needed to be passed on to parents in full. The government also announced plans for schools who are charities to lose the benefit of the 80% business rate relief they have previously received from 1[st] April 2025.

The governments indications were the VAT exemption was to be bought into effect from September 2025, however, this has now been brought forward to January 2025 following the budget in October 2025 giving the school little time to plan and implement this change.

Debt from unpaid fees continues on the downward trajectory as payment plans come to an end and a stringent credit control policy remains in place with cash collection over 97% of fees outstanding and parents who have not paid fees being issued a warning to make a significant payment or notice issued to these parents.

The school offers an extensive fee assistance programme, based on a means-tested method, and during the course of the 2023-24 academic year, 35 families have benefitted from this. 42 families have been granted fee assistance for the 2024/25 school year. As one of the many initiatives to ensure the school’s business model is redeveloped with sustainability in mind, the fee assistance programme has been thoroughly reviewed and redesigned and is now fixed at 30% maximum allowance. A further review is planned for the year 2025/26 to ensure the process remains current and sustainable.

An allocation of 5% of gross fee income remains in place has been set as a maximum fee assistance budget which distributed to families on a means tested basis on an objective basis and assessed with the support of a third-party company, under a new clear Fee Assistance Policy. The policy has also reduced the extent of individual fee assistance offered from 60% in 2021/22 to 45% in 2022/23 and was reduced further to the current level of 30% in 2023/24 to ensure the programme offers a wider range of assistance as possible but within the more sustainable parameters established.

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

The charity’s principal objective is to provide for and conduct the education of children in accordance with Steiner Waldorf educational principles.

It pursues this objective by the administering of Michael Hall School at its premises in Forest Row, East Sussex. In doing so it provides education to and attends to the welfare of children in the school, whilst maintaining and improving the school’s premises and grounds.

In determining how best to pursue this objective, the Trustees have had regard to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit.

Early Childhood has now been split into 2 areas. Our ‘Saplings’ provision for 2-3 year olds opened in September 2023 and our existing Kindergarten will now have a provision for 4-6 year olds. This has enabled the School to offer an education to children from 2 years through to 18. There are also plans to open a Forest Kindergarten in September 2025.

Fees continue to represent over 90% of the charity’s income. Fees continue to be the main driver of income, and our Marketing and Admissions Manager is addressing the needs of the school further by boosting pupil numbers and beginning to market the school to its full potential as well as boost our connections with the alumni body.

Taking its inspiration from Rudolph Steiner, the School’s curriculum is delivered with age-appropriate awareness, which takes into account the cognitive and emotional stages of child development. The aim of the school is through a holistic education, providing the students with skills and a passion for lifelong learning that promotes confidence and

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REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE

encourages well rounded, creative and practical individuals. Alongside traditional GCSE and A level qualifications, the education is delivered through an extremely diverse Steiner Waldorf curriculum portfolio.

The objective is further secured through:

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

3.1 Context

The annual programme of cultural events, festivals, trips and residentials has enriched the curriculum for children of all ages. Immersive learning experiences are evident in abundance and colleagues’ creative approaches to delivering the curriculum are a source of inspiration.

3.2.a GCSE Results July 2024

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MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE

3.2.b A-Level Results July 2024

Exam results in both GSCEs and A-Levels saw steady results similar to those in 2023. This demonstrates our ability to combine both the Steiner curriculum and achieve academic results.

3.3 Internal Progress and Attainment

Our systems for tracking and monitoring pupil progress and attainment for all internal year cohorts have improved significantly this year, since the arrival of the new School Principal. A programme of termly pupil progress meetings enable staff to feel confident that they are meeting the needs of every child in their care, with support from appropriate colleagues, such as senior school leaders and the learning support team.

Senior Leaders currently analyse the assessment data, to ensure that academic performance targets are accurate and that students remain on track. This work will continue to be delegated to core Subject Leads over the course of the next academic year as part of their continuing professional development in role.

There is a greater sense of accountability and autonomy for the progress data that is being produced and this programme will continue to be developed across the School in greater depth next year.

3.4 Staff Numbers

Staff numbers have remained stable through the course of the year which shows robust recruitment. The resignations that have been made have not all been replaced in a like for like role. There has been consideration regarding redeployment of existing staff and amalgamating roles, therefore reducing cost. There are no plans for a significant increase in staff numbers at present.

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MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE

3.5 Pupil Numbers

Pupil numbers continued to grow during the 23/24 school year. Projections for the following academic were initially looking to continue that growing trend, however, the late VAT announcement in the middle of summer did mean a slight drop in numbers predicted. Whilst the full extent of the impact of this change in legislation on our parent body cannot be known at this time, as news of VAT settles we currently expect a further softening of our numbers with a drop of around 10% in pupil numbers potentially indicated. The Trustees and SLT continue to consider the impact of this on the schools’ finances and what mitigating action might be appropriate to best align to those changes.

Open days have been streamlined to represent each area of the school and has been a huge success. This is evident in the record number of attendees, contributing to a substantial conversion rate within the past year. Interestingly despite VAT the interest in the school is still there and hunger from other Waldorf and International schools remains.

The school has initiated weekly tours, providing prospective families with regular opportunities to visit the School and gain insight on what Michael Hall has to offer.

The School's positive reputation is increasing, with a majority of new enquiries coming from word of mouth and via online searches. Efforts to enhance visibility through platforms such as Waldorf UK, various social media channels, and national press advertisements are contributing to this. A radio campaign has also been launched to broaden the scope of the Michael Hall name.

The website has been updated to include a fundraising page, an easy-to-use application form and online ticketing, which makes the customer experience better and the website easier to use.

Regular exit interviews with outgoing families continue to be carried out, with valuable information gathered and shared with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and trustees. This aims to enhance efficiency, address any issues, and continually refine school processes.

3.6 Estate and Buildings

The Estates Manager and Interim School Business Manager continue to look into the rejuvenation of the school’s buildings, and the longer-term strategic direction of the facilities and parkland grounds. A comprehensive plan of improvements and funding is being formulated in association with the Rural Payments Agency, Historic England, Natural England and the Forestry Commission, with an emphasis on two main aspects:

Relationships have been renewed with Table Hurst Farm, who are our tenant farmers, and throughout the local business and village community, which has helped to support many School events and continues to improve our standing within Forest Row. Community work-day projects hosted on-site have also increased awareness of the School to a wider market.

A comprehensive strategic business plan is in place to maximise the potential from the entire School site, which includes the following targeted elements:

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REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE

To support these elements and our School community in general, fundraising opportunities are featured on our website and some of the projects to be considered are:

A comprehensive Site Development Plan (SDP) for the next 1-3-5 years is now in place and is being used as a central planning document for all anticipated building projects, budget considerations and planning applications.

3.7 Public Benefit

The Trustees acknowledge the duty to have due regard to the Charity’s Commission’s published General and relevant sub sector guidance on public benefit. We have referred to this guide when reviewing our aims, strategy and in planning future activities. All activities undertaken by the School are for the public benefit.

3.8 Investments and performance

A lot of work has gone into looking into the investments the school owns via shares. Issues have remained around access to these funds given the historical nature and issues regarding permanent endowments limiting the school’s ability to form an investment policy, however, as market conditions seem to be deteriorating we are aware that the

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MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE

value of these share has decreased over the past 12 months and we are looking at options to release the funds to invest back into the school.

FINANCIAL REVIEW

During the year under review the school is reporting net movement on funds of £442,934 (2023: £150,578) inclusive of a gain on investments of £24,431 (2023 loss: £12,519) and a net credit on the movement of the pension deficit provision of £25,708 (2023 £75,283), giving an operating surplus of £392,795 (2023: £87,814).

As at 31 July 2024, the charity’s total funds amounted to £6,969,058 (2023: £6,526,124) of which £1,019,563 (2023: £993,079) is held within endowment funds with a further £32,308 (2023: £32,308) restricted leaving unrestricted funds of £5,917,187 (2023: £5,500,737). Within unrestricted funds are designated amounts totalling £6,476,352 (2023: £6,240,005) with funds represented by fixed assets amounting to £7,187,356 and a pension deficit position of £826,000 and other designated funds of £114,995 giving an overall deficit reserves position of £559,164 (2023 reserves deficit: £739,268).

The Trustees consider that the charity should hold positive reserves equivalent to two months operating costs (estimated at £500,000) in order to ensure the ongoing delivery of its charitable objects during an unforeseen downturn in income. The Trustees recognise the school returned to operate a positive cashflow from operating activities of £258,176 (2023: £102,066) during the financial year. The significant increase in fees over the last couple of years should put the place in a stronger financial position. There is currently an additional need to accumulate reserves in order to provide for the future development of the charity’s facilities and the Trustees estimate that a sum in excess of £1,400,000 will be freed from assets to form part of a detailed and carefully planned business rejuvenation strategy and to provide the funding support that the schools current operating performance requires during this turnaround. In making this statement the Trustees are particularly minded of the government policy changes implemented since the date of these Annual Accounts. In particular, the flexibility this additional source of capital may provide, without being unnecessarily dissipated, to implement any necessary changes to the organisation to respond to the financial challenges these pose and ensure the School continues to operate on a sustainable basis.

The school’s principal funding source continues to be income generated by school fees. Expenditure continues to be on teaching and support costs for the provision of education to those pupils. Michael Hall School had investments in COIF unitised funds throughout the year.

PLANS FOR FUTURE PERIODS and GOING CONCERN

The Trustees of Michael Hall School have formally assessed the Charity as a going concern. Through information submitted by the School’s Principal and Operational Heads, including Finance, HR, Admissions and Estates, Trustees have critically appraised the school’s financial position and are satisfied that the school will remain financially operational for the coming 12 months.

Pupil numbers remain the largest driver of the school’s finances, with numbers enjoying a period of stability in recent years. Whilst previously trending well towards our target (>450 pupils), the announcement of VAT in July 2024 has had an impact; however the school still expects a figure in excess of 410 in September 2024. The work done over the last financial year has resulted in a good Ofsted., Significant work has been undertaken to ensure spending is brought in line with the current pupil numbers. There have been numerous strategies undertaken to ensure that the 3-year budget is balanced against income from fees (even with worst case pupil numbers). These include:

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MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE

New catering provisions were explored during the current year without success and that resulted in a decision to implement an in-house model during the school year 2024/25 which has better met the needs of the school.

Historical debt has continued to decrease without the sale of the assets, which means more money available to reinvest back into the school. A comprehensive review to build a balanced budget for 2025-26 and beyond which incorporates the schools liabilities in full. The increased revenue from pupils and lettings currently forecast will allow us to re-invest these funds back into the school recognising the investment and maintenance obligations that the wonderful historic estate of Michael Hall requires. They will be accompanied by robust cost control measures as the Business Leadership Team maintains a tight control over the budget.

Current forecasts for September 2025 onwards are based on prudent financial benchmarking, while regular, detailed analysis of the fees and a balanced budget for 2025/26 demonstrate a more manageable cash-flow projection. Having reviewed the current financial data, Trustees are confident that predictions for financial improvements are sound, and are committed to developing a rigorous and comprehensive business plan to focus on marketing and retention to reach the target of 450 pupils on roll in the future. It is recognised that in order to underpin a healthy and resilient business model, the focus must be on pupil numbers and marketing, as well as clearing historic debt, to free up well earned cash and not a reliance on assets. Current plans anticipate a final, significant asset sale (over £1.4m) that can be carefully channelled into marketing, pupil retention and capitalising on the potential of the estate to broaden our sources of income.

The Resources Committee, followed by the Full Trustee Board, meet termly to scrutinise data submitted by school leaders which include the following data sets:

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REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE

Given the critical analysis of all the data provided, combined with the current strategic plans for the growth of the business, Trustees are confident that the school will remain operational and financially viable for the next 12 months

STATEMENT OF TRUSTEE'S RESPONSIBILITIES

The Trustees are responsible for preparing the Report of the Trustee and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

The law applicable to charities in England & Wales requires the trustee to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the charity for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the trustee is required to:

The trustee is responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011 and the provisions of the trust deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

The trustee is responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the charity and financial information included on the charity’s website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

APPOINTMENT OF AUDITORS

The charity’s auditors, Blue Spire Limited, have expressed their willingness to continue as auditors to the charity. A resolution proposing Blue Spire Limited be reappointed will be put forward at the AGM of the charity.

07 May 2025

Approved by the Council on …………………. and signed on its behalf.

………………………………….

Trustee

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INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Independent Auditor’s Report to the Trustee of Michael Hall School

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Michael Hall School (the ‘charity’) for the year ended 31 July 2024 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet, the Statement of Cash Flows and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the auditor responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees’ use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the report of the trustee, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. The trustee is responsible for the other information contained within the financial statements. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

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INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 require us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of the trustee

As explained more fully in the trustee’s responsibilities statement, the trustee is responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustee determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the trustee is responsible for assessing the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustee either intends to liquidate the charity or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and report in accordance with regulations made under section 154 of that Act.

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below.

Based on our understanding of the Charity and the sector in which it operates, we identified the principal laws and regulations that directly affect the financial statements to be the Charities Act, Employment Act, Independent Schools Standards. We assessed the extent of compliance with these laws and regulations as part of our procedures on the related financial statement items.

In addition, the Charity is subject to many other laws and regulations where the consequences of non-compliance could have a material effect on amounts or disclosures in the financial statements, for instance through the imposition of fines or litigation. There is a limitation to areas most likely to have such an effect. Auditing standards limit the required audit procedures to identify non-compliance with these laws and regulations to enquiry of the Trustees and other management and inspection of regulatory and legal correspondence if any.

Audit procedures performed by the engagement team included:

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INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the financial statements or non-compliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that compliance with a law or regulation is removed from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, as we will be less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance. The risk is also greater regarding irregularities occurring due to fraud rather than error, as fraud involves intentional concealment, forgery, collusion, omission or misrepresentation.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charity’s trustee, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity’s trustee those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity’s trustees as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Blue Spire Limited, Statutory Auditor Date 07 May 2025

Cawley Priory South Pallant Chichester West Sussex PO19 1SY

Blue Spire Limited is eligible to act as an auditor in terms of section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.

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FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

Note
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM:
Donations and legacies
1
Other trading activities
2
Investments
3
Charitable activities
4
Total
EXPENDITURE ON:
Raising funds
5
Charitable activities
6
Total
Net gains/(losses) on investments
12
Net income/(expenditure)
Transfers between funds
18
Net movement in funds
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward
18
Total funds carried forward
18
Actuarial
gains/(losses)
on
defined
benefit pension schemes
16		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
8,415
148,341
10,407
4,645,066
4,812,229
33,190
4,386,244
4,419,434
(2,053)
390,742
-
390,742
416,450
5,500,737
5,917,187
25,708		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
32,308
32,308
-		 Endowment
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
26,484
26,484
-
26,484
26,484
993,079
1,019,563
-		 2024
Total
Funds
£
8,415
148,341
10,407
4,645,066
4,812,229
33,190
4,386,244
4,419,434
24,431
417,226
-
417,226
442,934
6,526,124
6,969,058
25,708		 2023
Total
Funds
£
21,714
151,504
10,045
3,904,763
4,088,026
34,882
3,965,330
4,000,212
(12,519)
75,295
-
75,295
75,283
150,578
6,375,546
6,526,124

None of the charity’s activities were acquired or discontinued during the above two financial years.

The charity has no recognised gains or losses other than those dealt with in the statement of financial activities.

Page 16

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 JULY 2024

2024 2023
Note £ £ £ £
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible assets 11 7,839,356 7,844,487
Investments 12 495,258 470,827
Total fixed assets 8,334,614 8,315,314
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors 13 456,974 478,689
Cash at hand and in bank 446,707 279,811
Total current assets 903,681 758,500
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 14 1,138,810 1,061,547
Net current assets/(liabilities) (235,129) (303,047)
Total assets less current liabilities 8,099,485 8,012,267
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year 15 (304,427) (418,143)
Net assets/(liabilities) excluding pension asset/(liability) 7,795,058 7,594,124
Defined benefit pension scheme obligation 16 (826,000) (1,068,000)
Total net assets 6,969,058 6,526,124
THE FUNDS OF THE CHARITY
Endowment funds 18 1,019,563 993,079
Restricted funds 18 32,308 32,308
Unrestricted funds
Designated funds 18 6,476,351 6,240,005
General funds 18 (559,164) (739,268)
Total unrestricted funds 5,917,187 5,500,737
Total charity funds 6,969,058 6,526,124

The notes on pages 22 to 35 form part of the financial statements.

07 May 2025

The financial statements on pages 16 to 35 we approved and authorised for issue by the trustee on ……………………………………. and signed on its behalf by:

…………………………………………….

Trustee

Page 17

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

Note
£
£
Net cash flow from operating activities (see below)
258,176
Cash flow from investing activities
Interest and dividends received
10,407
Proceeds from sale of property
-
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
11
-
Net cash flow from investing activities
10,407
Cash flow from financing activities
Receipts from issue of new loans
-
Repayments of long term loans
(101,687)
Net cash flow from investing activities
(101,687)
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
166,896
Cash and cash equivalents at 1 August 2023
279,811
Cash and cash equivalents at 31 July 2024
446,707
Cash and cash equivalents consist of:
Cash at bank and in hand
22
446,707
Cash and cash equivalents at 31 July 2024
446,707
Reconciliation of net income to net cash flow from operating activities
£
£
Net income for the year
442,934
Adjusted for:
Interest and dividends
(10,407)
Interest paid
-
(Gains)/losses on investments
(24,431)
(Profit)/loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets
-
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets
5,131
Decrease/(increase) in debtors
21,715
Increase/(decrease) in creditors less than one year
65,234
Increase/(decrease) in provisions for liabilities
(242,000)
(184,758)
258,176
2024
2024		 £
£
102,066
10,045
-
-
10,045
-
(100,125)
(100,125)
11,986
267,825
279,811
279,811
279,811
£
£
150,578
(10,045)
-
12,519
-
5,934
(186,485)
413,565
(284,000)
(48,512)
102,066
2023
2023		 £
£
102,066
10,045
-
-
10,045
-
(100,125)
(100,125)
11,986
267,825
279,811
279,811
279,811
£
£
150,578
(10,045)
-
12,519
-
5,934
(186,485)
413,565
(284,000)
(48,512)
102,066
2023
2023
102,066

Page 18

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Scope and basis of the financial statements

Michael Hall School is an unincorporated charity governed by a trust deed. The address of the principal office is given in the reference and administrative details section and the nature of the charity’s operations and principal activities are given in the trustees' report.

The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland issued in October 2019, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102), the Charities Act 2011 and UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.

The financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis under the historical cost convention, modified to include certain items at fair value. The financial statements are presented in sterling which is the functional currency of the charity and rounded to the nearest £ except where marked.

The significant accounting policies applied in the preparation of these financial statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all years presented unless otherwise stated.

Judgements in applying accounting policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty

Preparation of the financial statements requires management to make judgements and estimates. The key sources of estimation uncertainty that have a significant effect on the amounts recognised in the financial statements are that of the Mercury Provident Pension Scheme obligation. More information is provided in the pension scheme policy below and in note 24.

Incoming resources

All incoming resources are included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SoFA) when the charity is legally entitled to the income after any performance conditions have been met, the amount can be measured reliably and it is probable that the income will be received.

For donations to be recognised the charity will have been notified of the amounts and the settlement date in writing. If there are conditions attached to the donation and this requires a level of performance before entitlement can be obtained then income is deferred until those conditions are fully met or the fulfilment of those conditions is within the control of the charity and it is probable that they will be fulfilled.

For legacies, entitlement is the earlier of the charity being notified of an impending distribution or the legacy being received. At this point income is recognised. On occasion legacies will be notified to the charity however it is not possible to measure the amount expected to be distributed. On these occasions, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset and disclosed.

Income from trading activities includes income earned from fundraising events and trading activities to raise funds for the charity. Income is received in exchange for supplying goods and services in order to raise funds and is recognised when entitlement has occurred.

Income from grants are recognised at fair value when the charity has entitlement after any performance conditions have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably. If entitlement is not met then these amounts are deferred.

Investment income is earned through holding assets for investment purposes such as shares and property. It includes dividends, interest and rent. Where it is not practicable to identify investment management costs incurred within a scheme with reasonable accuracy the investment income is reported net of these costs. It is included when the amount can be measured reliably. Interest income is recognised using the effective interest method and dividend and rent income is recognised as the charity’s right to receive payment is established.

Resources expended

All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Expenditure is recognised where there is a legal or constructive obligation to make payments to third parties, it is probable that the settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. It is categorised under the following headings:

Grants payable to third parties are within the charitable objectives. Where unconditional grants are offered, this is accrued as soon as the recipient is notified of the grant, as this gives rise to a reasonable expectation that the recipient will receive the grants. Where grants are conditional relating to performance then the grant is only accrued when any unfulfilled conditions are outside of the control of the charity.

Page 19

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Resources expended (continued)

Support costs allocation

Support costs are those that assist the work of the charity but do not directly represent charitable activities and include office costs, governance costs, administrative payroll costs. They are incurred directly in support of expenditure on the objects of the charity. Where support costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to cost of raising funds and expenditure on charitable activities on a basis consistent with use of the resources.

The analysis of these costs is included in notes 7 and 8.

Redundancy and termination payments

Termination payments are accounted for on an accruals basis, as above, and classified to the relevant category of expenditure.

Employee benefits

When employees have rendered service to the Charity, short-term employee benefits to which the employees are entitled are recognised at the undiscounted amount expected to be paid in exchange for that service.

Pensions

The charity operates a defined benefit plan. A liability for the charity’s obligations under the plan is recognised net of plan assets. The net change in the net defined benefit liability is recognised as the cost of the defined benefit plan during the period. Pension plan assets are measured at fair value and the defined benefit obligation is measured on an actuarial basis.

In addition the charity makes contributions towards a defined contribution group personal pension plan which are charged to the SOFA as they fall due.

Leases

Rentals payable and receivable under operating leases are charged to the SoFA on a straight line basis over the period of the lease.

Tax

The charity is considered to pass the tests set out in sections 521 to 536 Income Tax Act 2007 (ITA 2007), as such no income tax is payable on the charity's activities.

VAT

The charity is not registered for VAT and cannot recover VAT incurred on costs. These are therefore stated inclusive of any VAT element.

Fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are stated at cost or valuation less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. Cost includes costs directly attributable to making the asset capable of operating as intended.

Depreciation is provided on all tangible fixed assets, at rates calculated to write off the cost, less estimated residual value, of each asset on a systematic basis over its expected useful life as follows:

School site No depreciation is charged, however the site is subject to an annual impairment review.
Machinery and office equipment 20% reducing balance
Fixtures and fittings 10% reducing balance
Motor vehicles 25% reducing balance
Classroom equipment 7½% to 20% reducing balance

Fixed asset investments

Investments are recognised initially at fair value which is normally the transaction price excluding transaction costs. Subsequently, they are measured at fair value with changes recognised in ‘net gains / (losses) on investments’ in the SoFA if the shares are publicly traded or their fair value can otherwise be measured reliably.

Page 20

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Debtors receivable and creditors payable within one year

Debtors and creditors with no stated interest rate and receivable or payable within one year are recorded at transaction price. Any losses arising from impairment are recognised in expenditure.

Doubtful debts provision

Fees outstanding at the balance sheet date are provided in full where no payments are currently being received. Where payments are being received, amounts expected to be recovered in the next 12 months are not provided.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents includes cash at bank and in hand inclusive of foreign currency accounts. Foreign currency transactions are initially recognised by applying to the foreign currency amount the spot exchange rate between the functional currency and the foreign currency at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in a foreign currency at the balance sheet date are translated using the closing rate.

Fund accounting

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the charity and which have not been designated for other purposes.

Restricted funds are funds which are to be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors or which have been raised by the charity for particular purposes. The cost of raising and administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. The aim and use of each restricted fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements.

Endowment funds represent those assets which must be held permanently by the charity, principally held as fixed asset investments. Income arising on the endowment funds can be used in accordance with the objects of the charity and is included as unrestricted income. Any capital gains or losses arising on the investments form part of the fund. Investment management charges and legal advice relating to the fund are charged against the fund.

Going concern

The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis as the trustees believe that no material uncertainties exist. The trustees have considered the level of funds held and the expected level of income and expenditure for 12 months from authorising these financial statements. The budgeted income and expenditure is sufficient with the level of reserves for the charity to be able to continue as a going concern.

Page 21

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. Donations and legacies

Donations
Grants received
Donations to bursaries
Donations
Grants received
Donations to bursaries		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
7,415
-
1,000
8,415
Unrestricted
Funds
£
3,569
5,111
13,034
21,714		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-		 Endowment
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
Endowment
Funds
£
-
-
-
-		 2024
Total
Funds
£
7,415
-
1,000
8,415
2023
Total
Funds
£
3,569
5,111
13,034
21,714

2. Other trading activities

Christmas fair
Estate and rental income
Ancillary income
Christmas fair
Estate and rental income
Ancillary income
3. Income from investments
Investment income
Bank interest		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
21,546
76,388
50,407
148,341
Unrestricted
Funds
£
19,508
72,085
59,911
151,504
Unrestricted
Funds
£
9,896
511
10,407		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-		 Endowment
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
Endowment
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
Endowment
Funds
£
-
-
-		 2024
Total
Funds
£
21,546
76,388
50,407
148,341
2023
Total
Funds
£
19,508
72,085
59,911
151,504
2024
Total
Funds
£
9,896
511
10,407

Page 22

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

3. Income from investments (continued)

Investment income
Bank interest
4. Income from charitable activities
Tuition fees
Reduced fee contracts
Chargeable disbursements
Lunches and catering income
Tuition fees
Reduced fee contracts
Chargeable disbursements
Lunches and catering income
5. Raising funds
Ancillary expenditure
Salary costs of raising funds
Christmas fair and other fundraising costs
Ancillary expenditure
Salary costs of raising funds
Christmas fair and other fundraising costs		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
9,738
307
10,045
Unrestricted
Funds
£
4,625,740
(212,307)
198,345
33,288
4,645,066
Unrestricted
Funds
£
3,973,460
(315,726)
149,569
97,460
3,904,763
Unrestricted
Funds
£
5,433
20,922
6,835
33,190
Unrestricted
Funds
£
4,508
23,103
7,271
34,882		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-		 Endowment
Funds
£
-
-
-
Endowment
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
Endowment
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
Endowment
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
Endowment
Funds
£
-
-
-
-		 2023
Total
Funds
£
9,738
307
10,045
2024
Total
Funds
£
4,625,740
(212,307)
198,345
33,288
4,645,066
2023
Total
Funds
£
3,973,460
(315,726)
149,569
97,460
3,904,763
2024
Total
Funds
£
5,433
20,922
6,835
33,190
2023
Total
Funds
£
4,508
23,103
7,271
34,882

Page 23

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

6. Charitable activities
Education
Teachers salaries
Staff training and development
Supplies and equipment
Chargeable disbursements cost
Depreciation
Historical VAT recoverable
Minibus depreciation
Welfare
Catering supplies and equipment
Medical salaries
Medical
Premises
Health and safety
Estate salaries
Property maintenance
Site improvements
Light and heat
Insurance
Cleaning
Rates & water
Support costs
Administration salaries
Telephone and postage
Printing and stationery
Communications and PR
Insurance
Office equipment and IT
Legal and professional fees
Subscriptions
General admin expenses
Depreciation
Finance costs
Bad debts and provision for bad debts
Governance costs (see note 7)		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
2,334,814
46,300
131,961
187,881
1,844
(42,855)
73
2,660,018
74,396
27,818
998
103,212
34,693
226,356
164,871
36,648
123,834
59,134
99,001
54,894
799,431
457,757
12,177
749
8,464
-
148,540
47,772
25,791
9,030
3,214
43,473
46,236
20,380
823,583
4,386,244		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 Endowment
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 2024
Total
Funds
£
2,334,814
46,300
131,961
187,881
1,844
(42,855)
73
2,660,018
74,396
27,818
998
103,212
34,693
226,356
164,871
36,648
123,834
59,134
99,001
54,894
799,431
457,757
12,177
749
8,464
-
148,540
47,772
25,791
9,030
3,214
43,473
46,236
20,380
823,583
4,386,244

Page 24

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

6. Charitable activities (continued)

6. Charitable activities (continued)
Education
Teachers salaries
Staff training and development
Supplies and equipment
Chargeable disbursements cost
Depreciation
Historical VAT recoverable
Minibus depreciation
Welfare
Catering supplies and equipment
Medical salaries
Medical
Premises
Health and safety
Estate salaries
Property maintenance
Site improvements
Light and heat
Insurance
Cleaning
Rates & water
Support costs
Administration salaries
Telephone and postage
Printing and stationery
Communications and PR
Insurance
Office equipment and IT
Legal and professional fees
Subscriptions
General admin expenses
Depreciation
Finance costs
Bad debts and provision for bad debts
Governance costs (see note 7)		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
2,013,869
39,287
113,257
146,454
2,067
-
98
2,315,032
193,473
22,468
28
215,969
43,985
242,067
88,624
11,434
129,478
50,451
50,171
51,798
668,008
414,170
7,239
1,604
2,036
4,667
175,790
50,685
26,153
12,216
3,769
48,092
-
19,900
766,321
3,965,330		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 Endowment
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 2023
Total
Funds
£
2,013,869
39,287
113,257
146,454
2,067
-
98
2,315,032
193,473
22,468
28
215,969
43,985
242,067
88,624
11,434
129,478
50,451
50,171
51,798
668,008
414,170
7,239
1,604
2,036
4,667
175,790
50,685
26,153
12,216
3,769
48,092
-
19,900
766,321
3,965,330

Page 25

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

7. Governance costs

Unrestricted
Funds
£
Salaries
10,000
Auditors' fees - current year
10,380
20,380
Unrestricted
Funds
£
Salaries
10,000
Auditors' fees - current year
9,900
19,900
8. Fees payable to independent auditors
Unrestricted
Funds
£
Auditors' remuneration - audit
10,380
Unrestricted
Funds
£
Auditors' remuneration - audit
9,900
9. Staff costs and information
Gross wages
Employer's national insurance costs
Pension costs
Termination payments
The termination payments above represent full settlement with no amounts payable or due
Staff numbers:
Average head count		 Restricted
Endowment
Funds
Funds
£
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
Restricted
Endowment
Funds
Funds
£
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
Restricted
Endowment
Funds
Funds
£
£
-
-
Restricted
Endowment
Funds
Funds
£
£
-
-
2024
Total
£
2,744,806
247,771
73,931
15,010
3,081,518
at either period end
2024
107		 2024
Total
Funds
£
10,000
10,380
20,380
2023
Total
Funds
£
10,000
9,900
19,900
2024
Total
Funds
£
10,380
2023
Total
Funds
£
9,900
2023
Total
£
2,401,878
216,368
67,757
22,420
2,708,423
2023
102

During the year under review two employees (2023: two employees) received employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) of more than £60,000; one employee (2023: two employees) in the range of £60,000 to £70,000 (2023: £60,000 to £70,000) and one employee (2023: no employee) in the of range £70,000 to £80,000 (2023: £70,000 to £80,000).

The pension costs charge above has been charged to the Statement of Financial Activities.

Page 26

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

10. Related party transactions

No trustee received remuneration, or other employment benefits for being a trustee in this or the comparative year.

Remuneration was paid to the following trustees in relation to their employment as teachers and support staff:

D Jones £
30,914
30,914
Salary		 £
3,115
3,115
2024
National
insurance		 £
927
927
Pension		 £
-
-
Salary		 £
-
-
2023
National
insurance		 £
-
Pension
-

During the year under review remuneration for spouses and children of trustees amounted to £1,301 (2023: £15,563). In addition national insurance contributions totalling £75 (2023: £912) and pension contributions totalling £39 (2023: £467) were made on behalf of spouses and children of trustees.

Trustees (and spouses) who are teachers or other staff members receive remuneration in that capacity and not for acting as a trustee. This remuneration is authorised under section 4 of the Memorandum of Association of Michael Hall School Limited.

Total employee benefits, inclusive of employer national insurance contributions and employer pension contributions, received by the school's twelve (2023: eight) key management personnel amounted to £530,115 (2023: £412,904) during the year under review.

During the year one (2023: one) of the school's key management personnel received staff discounts in relation to their children's school fees of £11,700 (2023: £10,630). These discounts were received on the same terms in relation to discounts given to teachers without key management personnel status. At the balance sheet date £114 (2023: £267) was outstanding from these individuals.

No trustee (2023: no trustee) had expenses reimbursed or paid on their behalf for training or reimbursed for medical costs.

Expenses reimbursed to and paid on behalf of seven members (2023: five member) of key management personnel totalled £2,542 (2023: £1,916) for training and other costs in relation to their role in the year under review.

Tuition fees are charged on normal commercial terms, except for teacher trustees who, as with all teachers, receive a 80% (2023: 80%) discount after other discounts on a pro-rata basis. No trustees who are teachers at the school had children in education in the year under review of the comparative year.

The following individuals who were trustees for all or part of the year were educating their children at the school:
J Angus
N Michaels
T Souleiman
E Tilezhinski
2024
£
Tuition fees charged to 4 (2023: 3) Parent Trustees net of discounts amounted to
95,373		 2023
£
58,827

The discounts, inclusive of sibling and reduced fees, which were provided on the same basis as those to other parents amounted to £17,077 (2023: £3,075). At the balance sheet date £6,309 (2023: £4,433) was outstanding from trustees educating their children at the school.

Page 27

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

11. Tangible fixed assets

Cost
Brought forward
Additions
Disposals
Depreciation
Accumulated brought forward
Charge
On disposals
Net book value carried forward
Net book value brought forward		 School
site
£
7,798,567
-
-
7,798,567
-
-
-
-
7,798,567
7,798,567		 Machinery
& office
equipment
£
393,046
-
-
393,046
385,887
1,433
-
387,320
5,726
7,159		 Fixtures &
fittings
£
284,722
-
-
284,722
266,909
1,781
-
268,690
16,032
17,813		 Motor
vehicles
£
21,904
-
-
21,904
21,608
73
-
21,681
223
296		 Classroom
equipment
£
308,366
-
-
308,366
287,714
1,844
-
289,558
18,808
20,652		 Total
£
8,806,605
-
-
8,806,605
962,118
5,131
-
967,249
7,839,356
7,844,487

On transition to FRS 102 SORP (2015) a valuation, provided by Strutt and Parker, of the school site has been included as deemed cost as at 1 August 2014. The site is considered for impairment at each balance sheet date.

12. Investments

12. Investments
Listed investments
Market value brought forward
Additions at cost
Disposals at carrying value
Gains/(losses) on revaluation
Market value carried forward
The investments above are analysed as follows:
Listed investments
Unit trusts and similar investments		 2024
£
470,827
-
-
24,431
495,258
127,695
367,563
495,258		 2023
£
483,346
-
-
(12,519)
470,827
132,626
338,201
470,827

13. Debtors

Fees outstanding
Fee provision
Prepayments
VAT recoverable		 2024
£
572,650
(250,000)
91,469
42,855
456,974		 2023
£
623,837
(250,000)
104,852
-
478,689

Page 28

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

14. Creditors: amounts falling due in less than one year

Loans
Trade creditors
Deferred income (see below)
Other creditors and accruals
Deferred income
Deferred income brought forward
Released in year
Deferred in year
Deferred income carried forward
15. Creditors: amounts falling due after one year
Loans		 2024
£
105,298
75,393
591,116
367,003
1,138,810
£
419,906
(419,906)
591,116
591,116
2024
£
304,427
304,427		 2023
£
93,269
158,965
419,906
389,407
1,061,547
£
500
(500)
419,906
419,906
2023
£
418,143
418,143

One bank loan, with a year end balance of £273,725 (2023: £307,413), is secured over several of the school's freehold properties and is repayable over a period of 25 years from August 2005. The remaining balance of loans is unsecured.

16. Defined benefit obligation

Brought forward
Payments made
Charge to statement of financial activities
Carried forward		 2024
£
1,068,000
(216,292)
(25,708)
826,000		 2023
£
1,352,000
(208,717)
(75,283)
1,068,000

The above provision arises from the pension scheme's deficit funding arrangement. More information regarding the pensions scheme can be found in note 24.

17. Analysis of net assets between funds

Tangible assets
Investments
Current assets
Creditors: <1 year
Creditors: >1 year
Pension scheme deficit
Net assets at 31 July		 General
funds
£
-
12,700
871,373
(1,138,810)
(304,427)
-
(559,164)		 Designated
funds
£
7,187,356
114,995
-
-
-
(826,000)
6,476,351		 Restricted
funds
£
-
-
32,308
-
-
-
32,308		 Endowment
funds
£
652,000
367,563
-
-
-
-
1,019,563		 2024
Total
funds
£
7,839,356
495,258
903,681
(1,138,810)
(304,427)
(826,000)
6,969,058		 2023
Total
funds
£
7,844,487
470,827
758,500
(1,061,547)
(418,143)
(1,068,000)
6,526,124

Page 29

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

18. Analysis of movement in funds
Permanent endowment funds
Permanent Endowment Fund
Endowment Recoupment Fund
Total endowment funds
Restricted funds
ESCC
Clockhouse Fund
Outdoor terrace repair
Natural England Fund
Total restricted funds
Designated and general funds
WO Field bequest
Pension deficit (see note 24)
Fixed asset reserve (see note 17)
Total designated funds
General reserves
Total unrestricted funds
Total funds
Restricted funds
ESCC
Clockhouse Fund
Outdoor terrace repair
Natural England Fund
Designated funds
WO Field bequest		 Brought
Incoming
Outgoing
All gains/
Carried
forward
resources
resources
(losses)
Transfers
forward
£
£
£
£
£
£
652,000
-
-
-
-
652,000
341,079
-
-
26,484
-
367,563
993,079
-
-
26,484
-
1,019,563
3,000
-
-
-
-
3,000
3,789
-
-
-
-
3,789
22,801
-
-
-
-
22,801
2,718
-
-
-
-
2,718
32,308
-
-
-
-
32,308
115,518
-
-
(523)
-
114,995
(1,068,000)
-
-
25,708
216,292
(826,000)
7,192,487
-
(5,131)
-
-
7,187,356
6,240,005
-
(5,131)
25,185
216,292
6,476,351
(739,268)
4,812,229
(4,414,303)
(1,530)
(216,292)
(559,164)
5,500,737
4,812,229
(4,419,434)
23,655
-
5,917,187
6,526,124
4,812,229
(4,419,434)
50,139
-
6,969,058
Grant received from East Sussex County Council for healthy eating programme
Grants received to support the costs of repair to the Clockhouse
Funds received to support the costs of repair to the outdoor terrace
Grant received to conduct an environmental study on the school site
Funds received to support complementary health care costs for employees of the school.		 Carried
forward
£
652,000
367,563
1,019,563
3,000
3,789
22,801
2,718
32,308
114,995
(826,000)
7,187,356
6,476,351
(559,164)
5,917,187
6,969,058

19. Transfer between funds

From
To
Transfer 1
General fund
Pension deficit
Transfer of funds from unrestricted general funds representing payments made during the year.		 General
Designated
£
£
(216,292)
216,292
(216,292)
216,292
Unrestricted Funds		 General
Designated
£
£
(216,292)
216,292
(216,292)
216,292
Unrestricted Funds
216,292

Page 30

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

20. Financial instruments

The carrying amounts of the charity's financial instruments are as follows:

Financial assets
Measured at fair value through net income/(expenditure):
Fixed asset investments (note 12)
Debt instruments measured at amortised cost:
Trade debtors (note 13)
Financial liabilities
Measured at amortised cost:
Trade creditors (note 14)
Bank loan (notes 14 and 15)		 2024
Total
Funds
£
495,258
495,258
572,650
572,650
75,393
409,725
485,118		 2023
Total
Funds
£
470,827
470,827
623,837
623,837
158,965
511,412
670,377

The income, expense, net gains and net losses attributable to the charity's financial instruments are summarised as follows:

Income and expense
Financial assets measured at fair value through net income/(expenditure)
Investment income
Net gains and losses (including changes In fair value)
Financial assets measured at fair value through net income/(expenditure)
Unrealised gains/(losses) on investments		 2024
Total
Funds
£
7,274
7,274
24,431
24,431		 2023
Total
Funds
£
7,122
7,122
(12,519)
(12,519)

21. Operating leases

At the balance sheet date the school had total future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases payable as follows:

Less than one year
More than one year less than five years
More than five years		 Office
equipment
£
105,030
63,273
173,442
341,745		 Vehicles
£
5,438
-
-
5,438
2024		 Total
£
110,468
63,273
173,442
347,183		 Office
equipment
£
53,019
52,767
5,812
111,598		 Vehicles
£
14,175
4,660
-
18,835
2023		 Total
£
67,194
57,427
5,812
130,433

Page 31

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

22. Analysis of changes in net debt
Long term borrowings
Short term borrowings
Total liabilities
Cash and cash equivalents
Total net debt		 2022
£
1,244,826
-
1,244,826
(212,384)
1,032,442		 Cash flows
£
(733,414)
-
(733,414)
(67,427)
(800,841)		 2023
£
511,412
-
511,412
(279,811)
231,601		 Cash flows
£
(101,687)
-
(101,687)
(166,896)
(268,583)		 2024
£
409,725
-
409,725
(446,707)
(36,982)

23. Comparative Statement of Financial Activities and Analysis of movement in funds

Note
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM:
Donations and legacies
1
Other trading activities
2
Investments
3
Charitable activities
4
Total
EXPENDITURE ON:
Raising funds
5
Charitable activities
6
Total
Net gains/(losses) on investments
12
Net income/(expenditure)
Transfers between funds
18
Net movement in funds
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward
18
Total funds carried forward
18
Actuarial
gains/(losses)
on
defined
benefit pension schemes
16		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
21,714
151,504
10,045
3,904,763
4,088,026
34,882
3,965,330
4,000,212
(9,616)
78,198
-
78,198
153,481
5,347,256
5,500,737
75,283		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
32,308
32,308
-		 Endowment
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
(2,903)
(2,903)
-
(2,903)
(2,903)
995,982
993,079
-		 2023
Total
Funds
£
21,714
151,504
10,045
3,904,763
4,088,026
34,882
3,965,330
4,000,212
(12,519)
75,295
-
75,295
75,283
150,578
6,375,546
6,526,124

Page 32

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

23. Comparative Statement of Financial Activities and Analysis of movement in funds (continued)

Permanent endowment funds
Permanent Endowment Fund
Endowment Recoupment Fund
Total endowment funds
Restricted funds
ESCC
Clockhouse Fund
Outdoor terrace repair
Natural England Fund
Total restricted funds
Designated and general funds
WO Field bequest
Pension deficit (see note 18)
Fixed asset reserve (see note 12)
Total designated funds
General reserves
Total unrestricted funds
Total funds		 Brought
forward
£
652,000
343,982
995,982
3,000
3,789
22,801
2,718
32,308
123,096
(1,352,000)
7,198,421
5,969,517
(622,261)
5,347,256
6,375,546		 Incoming
resources
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
4,088,026
4,088,026
4,088,026		 Outgoing
resources
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
(5,934)
(5,934)
(3,994,278)
(4,000,212)
(4,000,212)		 Unrealised
gains/
(losses)
£
-
(2,903)
(2,903)
-
-
-
-
-
(7,578)
75,283
-
67,705
(2,038)
65,667
62,764		 Transfers
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
208,717
-
208,717
(208,717)
-
-		 Carried
forward
£
652,000
341,079
993,079
3,000
3,789
22,801
2,718
32,308
115,518
(1,068,000)
7,192,487
6,240,005
(739,268)
5,500,737
6,526,124

24. Pensions

The Charity participates in the Main Section of the Mercury Provident Pension Scheme (the Scheme), a UK registered trust based pension scheme that provides defined benefits.

Pension benefits are linked to the members’ final pensionable salaries and service at their retirement (or date of leaving if earlier). The Trustee of the Scheme is responsible for running the Scheme in accordance with the Scheme’s Trust Deed and Rules. The Trustee is required to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries of the Scheme.

There are two categories of Scheme members:

The value of the defined benefit obligation for the 31 July 2024 is derived by approximately adjusting the results of the triennial valuation as at 29 December 2021.

In adjusting the value of the defined benefit obligation allowance has been made over the relevant periods for:

All other experience is assumed to be in line with the assumptions at the start of the period. The value of the defined benefit obligation is adjusted for changes in the assumptions.

The results of the most recent formal actuarial valuation as at 29 December 2021 has been updated to the Charity year end by a qualified independent actuary. The assumptions used were as follows:

Page 33

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

24. Pensions (continued)
Year end 31 July 2024 Year end 31 July 2023
Significant actuarial assumptions
Discount rate 5.00% pa 5.10% pa
RPI inflation 3.20% pa 3.20% pa
CPI inflation 2.90% pa 2.80% pa
Mortality assumptions
Mortality 100% S3PMA_All/ 100% S3PMA_All/
100% S3PFA_All 100% S3PFA_All
CMI_2023_M/F CMI_2022_M/F
[1.25%] (yob) [1.25%] (yob)
Other actuarial assumptions
Pension increases:
Pre 88 GMP Nil Nil
Post 88 GMP 2.40% pa 2.40% pa
Pre 97 excess Nil Nil
97-05 pension 2.90% pa 2.80% pa
Post 2005 pension 2.10% pa 2.10% pa
Revaluation of deferred pensions in excess of GMP: 2.90% pa 2.80% pa
Life expectancies (in years)
Male Female Male Female
For an individual aged 65 in 2024 21.4 23.9 21.5 23.9
At age 65 for an individual aged 45 in 2024 22.6 25.3 22.7 25.3
The fair value of the Charity’s share of the assets of the Scheme was:
Year end 31 July 2024 Year end 31 July 2023
£'000s £'000s
Asset class
Equities 1,201 1,581
Diversified Credit Funds (DCFs) 418 308
Liability Driven Investments (LDIs) 432 439
Diversified Growth Funds (DGFs) 746 217
Buy and Maintain Funds 73 -
Cash 22 154
Total 2,892 2,699
The return on the assets was:
Year end 31 July 2024 Year end 31 July 2023
£'000s £'000s
Return
Interest income 134 103
Return on assets less interest income 216 (390)
Total return on assets 350 103
Reconciliation to the balance sheet:

Page 34

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2024

MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

24. Pensions (continued)
Year end 31 July 2024 Year end 31 July 2023
£'000s £'000s
Market value of assets 2,892 2,699
Present value of defined benefit obligation 2,718 3,767
Funded status (826) (1,068)
Irrecoverable surplus - -
Pension asset/(liability) recognised in the Statement of Financial
Position before allowance for deferred tax		 (826) (1,068)
Reconciliation of Scheme's assets and defined benefit obligation
Assets Defined benefit obligation Net position
£'000s £'000s £'000s
At 1 August 2023 2,699 (3,767) (1,068)
Benefits paid:
Pensions (215) 215 -
Transfers - - -
Other (36) 36 -
Employer contributions 216 - 216
Member contributions - - -
Current service cost - - -
Administration expenses (122) - (122)
Past service cost - - -
Settlements - - -
Business combinations/bulk transfers - - -
Interest income/cost 134 (186) (52)
Remeasurement gains/(losses):
Actuarial gains/(losses): Change of
basis		 - (34) (34)
Actuarial gains/(losses): Experience - 18 18
Return on assets excluding interest
income		 216 - 216
At 31 July 2024 2,892 (3718) (826)

Page 35