MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
Trustees Report
and Financial Statements
for the year ended 31 July 2025
Registered Charity Number 307006
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
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 2025
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:
| J Angus | (Parent) | (resigned 1 July 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| J Durrant | (Independent) | (resigned 25 July 2025) |
| J Harrison | (Parent) | (appointed 1 September 2023) |
| D Jones | (Teacher) | (appointed 1 September 2023) |
| N Michaels | (Parent) | (appointed 23 November 2020) |
| R Moore | (Independent) | (resigned 26 May 2025) |
| T Souleiman | (Parent) | (appointed 9 December 2019) |
| E Tilezhinskii | (Parent) | (appointed 1 September 2023) |
| J Hulbert | (Self Employed) | (appointed 25 March 2025) |
| C Marcus | (Parent) | (appointed 1 July 2025) |
| S Delfas | (Parent) | (appointed 1 July 2025) |
| H Carter | (Parent) | (appointed 1 July 2025) |
| R Dahele | (Parent) | (appointed 1 July 2025) |
| R Lyon | (Independent) | (appointed 1 July 2025) |
| S King | (Independent) | (appointed 1 July 2025) |
| E Hawker | (Teacher) | (appointed 10 December 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 2024/25 unless stated otherwise)
| S Stokes | Principal (to August 2024) |
|---|---|
| E Hawker | Acting Principal (to August 2025) Director of Studies (to August 2024) |
| J Courtenay | Assistant Principal and Lower School Assistant Principal |
| R Ford-Blanchard | Assistant Principal and Early Years Childhood Lead (to December 2025) |
| M Devaris | Upper School Assistant Principal (to August 2025) |
| C Parker | Designated Safeguarding Lead |
| C Martin | Inclusion Coordinator |
| R Michael | Head of People and Culture |
| C Fullbrook | Head of Finance |
| T Sowter | Head of Operations |
| R Lidert | Designated Safeguarding Lead (from September 2025) |
| S McWilliams | Principal (from August 2025) |
| C Little | Head of Inclusion (from September 2025) |
| R Harkness | Head of Upper School (from September 2025) |
Principal office
Kidbrooke Park Priory Road Forest Row East Sussex RH18 5JA
Charity registered number
307006
Page 1
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
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 2025
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 2025. 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 quality of education
Behaviour and attitudes Personal development Leadership and management Early years provision Sixth-form provision
The ISS standards were met at this inspection. The five Key Performance indicators for this year were therefore achieved and will now require maintenance.
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FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE
Following a robust recruitment process to employ a highly skilled new Principal for September 2025, Stuart McWilliams was appointed. The new Principal was supported with a thorough induction schedule put in place by Waldorf UK and the Trustees. This included visits to other Waldorf schools and a mentor who has been a Principal of a Waldorf school in the past.
The school continues to work with comprehensive School Improvement Plan/Self Evaluation Form (SIP/SEF) which was shared with the Trustees in September 2025. The plan is evaluated and updated regularly, and informs the Trustee monitoring visits which hold leaders to account for progress against the strategic priorities.
The school works closely with Waldorf UK who support and advocate for the school and for the Waldorf movement in a nationwide sense. The School’s relationship with Waldorf UK is strong.
Waldorf UK continue to offer training to all staff, support to Senior Leaders and training to Ofsted in line with 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 new Principal works alongside the Heads of school, INCO and DSL. The Head of Finance also sits within the senior leadership team. The Principal heads both the educational and business functions.
The Business Leadership Team has been disbanded with the positions of Head of People and Culture and Head of Operations no longer in operation, with a view to ensure the leadership team is of appropriate size for the current scale of the school.
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 continues to have a positive presence on social media platforms as well a radio campaign, we also attended the Independent School Show for the first time. 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 social media 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 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 reconnecting with Old Scholars as a positive way to keep everyone engaged with the school once they have left the school.
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 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE
VAT came into full operation on 1st January 2025. The school has also lost business rates relief of 80% and following the budget in 2024 employers’ National Insurance contributions also increased significantly.
Sales of three properties have now completed with funds safeguarded in a separate account. Several rejuvenation projects are planned to make the site sustainable.
Debt from unpaid fees remains steady with parents who build up debt given the chance to spread payments over a certain period (3, 6 or 12 months) to allow them to get back on track. A stringent credit control policy remains in place with cash collection over 95% of fees outstanding. Parents are contacted by credit control in the first instance and then escalated to the Head of Finance should non-payment persist. We try to work with all families to come to a solution, however, should we not, notice is handed to the family and we have a good debt collection agency who works on our behalf to collect the debt.
The school offers an extensive fee assistance programme, based on a means-tested method, and during the course of the 2024-25 academic year, 42 families have benefitted from this. 48 families have been granted fee assistance for the 2025/26 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. The process remains under constant review 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 is distributed to families on a means tested basis using objective criteria and assessed with the support of a third-party company, under a new clear Fee Assistance Policy. Fee Assistance has now been capped at 30% 2024/25 to ensure the programme can help as many families 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. A Forest Kindergarten has also opened 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 aiming to boost 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 to provide a holistic education, providing the students with skills and a passion for lifelong learning that promotes confidence and 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.
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MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE
The objective is further secured through:
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An expectation of exceptional teaching and learning, within the Steiner Waldorf tradition, that celebrates diversity and promotes inclusivity;
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Regular opportunities for collaborative, high quality CPD to ensure consistent and best practice;
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The promotion of the highest standards of behaviour, achieved through clear expectations and positive relationships within the school community;
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The unique character of the School;
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Shared whole School values of dignity, respect, celebration and ambition for all;
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The School as a hub for its local community and families;
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Networking within the wider Steiner Waldorf community through forging strong links with Waldorf UK and other Schools within the Movement.
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.
Our exam results are shown in the table below. Note the school is non-selective. We believe we have proven that this still allows us to realise each child’s academic potential while also enabling a more rounded appreciation of human value and everyone’s unique gifts.
3.2.a GCSE Results July 2025
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FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE
3.2.b A-Level Results July 2025
Exam results in both GSCEs and A-Levels saw steady results similar to those in 2024 with a slight increase in the higher marks awarded. 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 to increase staff numbers at present.
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FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE
3.5 Pupil Numbers
After the introduction of VAT in January 2025 we have seen a decline of 10% in pupil numbers and forecast to drop a further 10% in the school year 2026/27. 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. The school will begin to explore the opportunity to welcome back international students in 2026/27.
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 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 the Senior leadership have put 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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Three properties have now been sold, with significant investment back into the existing and remaining residential buildings planned over the course of 2026. There are also no further plans to sell the remaining asset which was originally planned to be sold.
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Our wedding licence was renewed for 4 years from May 2023. The renewal includes for the first-time external wedding ceremony locations, allowing anyone to be married on our mansion terraces or under the colonnade.
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Plans are underway to increase letting potential across the site. Targets will include increasing the wedding let provision, theatre use, and wider use of the school grounds during the holiday periods.
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Lettings of all our facilities continue to increase pushed forward by the estate and lettings team. We have retained all our historical bookings of the gym and studio spaces, even with an increase in lettings fees. We have been able to increase our offering of lettings availability over the summer holidays and have incorporated external summer camps, performance companies and an international yoga retreat into our summer schedule.
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Planning process is underway for a number of relevant projects for the School’s development, with two priority identified as specifically important: the refurbishment of the upper floors of the Clock House building and the building of a new stand-alone Craft block to re-home Woodwork, Handwork, Metalwork and Joinery into a modern, state of the art, purpose-built space.
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A comprehensive Site Development Plan has been implemented for building works over the next 15 years, including rebuilding, renewing and refurbishment work. These plans would not only increase and enhance the educational provision but also have major let potential.
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An asset management register is being completed to determine potential areas of income revenue in order to support the School and its development.
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Repairs to the historic Culvert Tunnel running under the school grounds are planned for 2027 with the help of grants/funding to be found.
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FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
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:
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Theatre auditorium rejuvenation and the creation of a new lobby and refreshment area, and toilet facilities, allowing us to host events comprehensively
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Coffee/Refreshments catering trailer to increase income from events
A comprehensive Site Development Plan (SDP) for the next 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
Work continues looking into the investments the school owns via shares. Issues continue 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 continue to fluctuate we are aware that the price over the past 12 months has been erratic 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 £569,100 (2024: £442,934) inclusive of a gain on investments of £11,222 (2024 gain: £24,431) and a net credit on the movement of the pension deficit provision of £18,894 (2024 credit: £25,708), giving an operating surplus of £538,984 (2024 operating surplus: £392,795).
As at 31 July 2025, the charity’s total funds amounted to £7,538,158 (2024: £6,969,058) of which £1,017,271 (2024: £1,019,563) is held within endowment funds with a further £9,507 (2024: £32,308) restricted leaving unrestricted funds of £6,511,380 (2024: £5,917,187). Within unrestricted funds are designated amounts totalling £5,964,660 (2024: £6,476,351) with funds represented by fixed assets amounting to £6,419,133 and a pension deficit position of £580,000 and other designated funds of £125,527 giving an overall reserves position of £546,720 (2024 reserves deficit: £559,164).
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 operated at a negative cashflow from operating activities of £466,421 during the financial year (2024: Surplus £258,176). Having drawn forward on fees previously in annual payments, the sale of houses and the increase in school fees over the last couple of years has put Michael Hall School in a stronger financial position than previously. 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 have been able to free a sum in excess of £600k 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.
Trustees consider that the current level of reserves is below that required and that the charity should aim to generate sufficient surpluses over the next 5-10 years to build the reserves to the required level.
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.
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MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE
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 stabilising around 375 in recent years. Whilst previously trending well towards our target (>400 pupils), the announcement of VAT in July 2024 has had an impact and the school expects a lower number of around 340 in September 2026. 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 including refinancing and payment of historical debts. 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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Credit control continues to be a strong point with over 95% of fees collected. Continued to be around this level for the rest of the 2024/25 school year. A robust zero tolerance is also being taken with older non-paying parents to address legacy issues in this respect with letters being issued for non-payment and termination of the educational contract should payments not be met and appropriate recovery action taken. A review of the current credit control policy will be refined to ensure it is current and relevant.
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School fees have been uplifted by the full 20% VAT during the Spring Term 2025, the current plan is to increase fees by around 4% but freeze fees across the school in the school year 2026/27. This follows an increase of 5% for the academic year 2024/25 and whilst these increases reflect the ending of the low inflationary economic environment, they also begin to recognise the comparably low fees charged by the school relative to other local fee-paying schools and the exceptional value that the school offers. There are also plans to invest into the offering in Upper School to show true value for money.
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The staff discount was reduced in September 2023 for new staff and has been reduced from 80% to 60%.
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A contingency plan is in place, if pupil numbers continue on the downward trajectory, to reduce the size of the school to a single stream setting and balance the income and costs to a sustainable long-term level. However, at present pupil numbers are stable and could increase over the coming months. There is no need to restructure any part of the school at present, but this remains under constant review and will be acted upon should the need arise. New exit interviews for key areas are planned to understand why we lose pupils at key points in the educational journey, such as GCSEs and A-Levels, to ensure we understand the reasons for any significant drop off at these points.
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Additional income from International Students is being explored.
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The College of Teachers is considering the future of the Upper School curriculum to include possible accreditation for the Waldorf elements of our provision.
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A detailed development plan is now in place and will ensure the funds are carefully directed to development, whilst the operating budget will be drafted to balance without consideration of these additional funds.
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A programme to engage the alumni in financial support has been launched and will include endowment giving and regular donation options.
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Income from additional sources will be driven through lettings of the site and events such as Weddings and Theatre opportunities and Summer Camps.
A catering provision is now implemented in-house with huge success during 2024/25 school year 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. With debt falling, loans ending or refinanced, the school enters 2026/27 with a lower pupil number, but with higher fees and lower debt we are confident that with robust cost control and investment we should see a period of growth again despite the lower numbers initially.
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FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE
Current forecasts for September 2026 onwards are based on prudent financial benchmarking, while regular, detailed analysis of the fees and a balanced budget for 2026/27 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 >400 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. With the sale of Assets we currently hold circa £600k in reserves which will be safeguarded against future investment. Marketing and admissions remain the focus along with 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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Cash flow forecasts
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Pupil number predictions
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Principal and Head of Finance Reports
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HR report and staffing salary KPIs – Continual review of affordable staffing levels
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Budget updates
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Strategic plans
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Health and Safety audits
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Outcomes of Financial Working Group
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Post Ofsted Action Plan (current strategic priority)
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School Improvement Plan
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Site Development Plan
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:
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select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
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observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP 2019 (FRS 102);
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make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
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state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;
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prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation.
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.
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FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE
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.
20 May 2026
Approved by the Council on …………………. and signed on its behalf.
…………………………………. Trustee
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FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
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 2025 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:
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give a true and fair view of the state of the charity’s affairs as at 31 July 2025, and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for the year then ended;
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have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
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have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011.
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 trustees' annual report2, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and 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.
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:
-
the information given in the financial statements is inconsistent in any material respect with the trustees’ report; or
-
sufficient accounting records have not been kept; or
-
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records; or
Page 13
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
- we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.
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 the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.
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:
-
Enquiry of management, those charged with governance around actual and potential litigation and claims;
-
Enquiry of entity staff to identify any instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations;
-
Reviewing minutes of meetings of those charged with governance;
-
Reviewing financial statement disclosures and testing to supporting documentation to assess compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
-
Performing audit work over the risk of management override of controls, including testing of journal entries and other adjustments for appropriateness, evaluating the business rationale of significant transactions outside the normal course of business and revieing accounting estimates for bias.
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.
Page 14
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
- A further description of our responsibilities is available on the FRC's website at: https://www.frc.org.uk/auditors/audit assurance/auditor-s-responsibilities-for-the-audit-of-the-fi/description-of-the-auditor%E2%80%99s-responsibilitiesfor.This description forms part of our auditor’s report.
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
Cawley Priory South Pallant Chichester West Sussex PO19 1SY
Date 20 May 2026
Blue Spire Limited is eligible for appointment as auditor of the charity by virtue of its eligibility for appointment as auditor of a company under section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006
Page 15
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
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 £ 1,123 286,625 10,620 5,161,407 5,459,775 52,790 4,868,001 4,920,791 13,514 552,498 22,801 575,299 594,193 5,917,187 6,511,380 18,894 |
Restricted Funds £ - - - - - - - - - - (22,801) (22,801) (22,801) 32,308 9,507 - |
Endowment Funds £ - - - - - - - - (2,292) (2,292) - (2,292) (2,292) 1,019,563 1,017,271 - |
2025 Total Funds £ 1,123 286,625 10,620 5,161,407 5,459,775 52,790 4,868,001 4,920,791 11,222 550,206 - 550,206 569,100 6,969,058 7,538,158 18,894 |
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 25,708 |
|||||
| 442,934 6,526,124 |
|||||
| 6,969,058 |
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 2025
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 JULY 2025
| Note FIXED ASSETS Tangible assets 11 Investments 12 Total fixed assets CURRENT ASSETS Debtors 13 Cash at hand and in bank Total current assets CURRENT LIABILITIES Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 14 Net current assets/(liabilities) Total assets less current liabilities Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year 15 Net assets/(liabilities) excluding pension asset/(liability) Defined benefit pension scheme obligation 16 Total net assets THE FUNDS OF THE CHARITY Endowment funds 18 Restricted funds 18 Unrestricted funds Designated funds 18 General funds 18 Total unrestricted funds Total charity funds |
£ £ 7,071,133 506,480 7,577,613 511,561 524,873 1,036,434 495,889 540,545 8,118,158 - 8,118,158 (580,000) 7,538,158 1,017,271 9,507 5,964,660 546,720 6,511,380 7,538,158 2025 |
£ £ 7,839,356 495,258 8,334,614 456,974 446,707 903,681 1,138,810 (235,129) 8,099,485 (304,427) 7,795,058 (826,000) 6,969,058 1,019,563 32,308 6,476,351 (559,164) 5,917,187 6,969,058 2024 |
£ £ 7,839,356 495,258 8,334,614 456,974 446,707 903,681 1,138,810 (235,129) 8,099,485 (304,427) 7,795,058 (826,000) 6,969,058 1,019,563 32,308 6,476,351 (559,164) 5,917,187 6,969,058 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8,099,485 (304,427) |
|||
| 7,795,058 (826,000) |
|||
| 6,969,058 | |||
| 1,019,563 32,308 5,917,187 |
|||
| 6,969,058 |
The notes on pages 22 to 35 form part of the financial statements.
20 May 2026
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 2025
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
| Note £ £ Net cash flow from operating activities (see below) (466,421) Cash flow from investing activities Interest and dividends received 10,620 Proceeds from sale of property 875,692 Purchase of property, plant and equipment 11 - Net cash flow from investing activities 886,312 Cash flow from financing activities Receipts from issue of new loans - Repayments of long term loans (341,725) Net cash flow from investing activities (341,725) Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 78,166 Cash and cash equivalents at 1 August 446,707 Cash and cash equivalents at 31 July 524,873 Cash and cash equivalents consist of: Cash at bank and in hand 22 524,873 Cash and cash equivalents at 31 July 524,873 Reconciliation of net income to net cash flow from operating activities £ £ Net income for the year 569,100 Adjusted for: Interest and dividends (10,620) Interest paid - (Gains)/losses on investments (11,222) (Profit)/loss on disposal of tangible fixed assets (111,945) Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets 4,473 Decrease/(increase) in debtors (54,587) Increase/(decrease) in creditors less than one year (605,620) Increase/(decrease) in provisions for liabilities (246,000) (1,035,521) (466,421) 2025 2025 |
£ £ 258,176 10,407 - - 10,407 - (101,687) (101,687) 166,896 279,811 446,707 446,707 446,707 £ £ 442,934 (10,407) - (24,431) - 5,131 21,715 65,234 (242,000) (184,758) 258,176 2024 2024 |
£ £ 258,176 10,407 - - 10,407 - (101,687) (101,687) 166,896 279,811 446,707 446,707 446,707 £ £ 442,934 (10,407) - (24,431) - 5,131 21,715 65,234 (242,000) (184,758) 258,176 2024 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| 258,176 |
Page 18
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
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:
-
Costs of raising funds includes staff and other costs of raising the charity's profile and investment management fees; and
-
Expenditure on charitable activities includes costs of delivery the charity's objects together with support and governance costs.
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 2025
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 registered for VAT and complies with the requirements of partial exemption. Irrecoverable VAT is accounted for within the expenditure category to which the underlying costs relate.
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 2025
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 2025
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. Donations and legacies
| 1. Donations and legacies | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Donations Donations to bursaries Donations Donations to bursaries |
Unrestricted Funds £ 123 1,000 1,123 Unrestricted Funds £ 7,415 1,000 8,415 |
Restricted Funds £ - - - Restricted Funds £ - - - |
Endowment Funds £ - - - Endowment Funds £ - - - |
2025 Total Funds £ 123 1,000 |
| 1,123 | ||||
| 2024 Total Funds £ 7,415 1,000 |
||||
| 8,415 |
2. Other trading activities
| 2. Other trading activities | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Christmas fair Estate and rental income Ancillary income Profit on disposal of fixed assets Christmas fair Estate and rental income Ancillary income 3. Income from investments Investment income Bank interest |
Unrestricted Funds £ 19,950 107,387 47,343 111,945 286,625 Unrestricted Funds £ 21,546 76,388 50,407 148,341 Unrestricted Funds £ 9,975 645 10,620 |
Restricted Funds £ - - - - - Restricted Funds £ - - - - Restricted Funds £ - - - |
Endowment Funds £ - - - - - Endowment Funds £ - - - - Endowment Funds £ - - - |
2025 Total Funds £ 19,950 107,387 47,343 111,945 |
| 286,625 | ||||
| 2024 Total Funds £ 21,546 76,388 50,407 |
||||
| 148,341 | ||||
| 2025 Total Funds £ 9,975 645 |
||||
| 10,620 |
Page 22
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
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 £ 9,896 511 10,407 Unrestricted Funds £ 5,129,703 (223,477) 194,827 60,354 5,161,407 Unrestricted Funds £ 4,625,740 (212,307) 198,345 33,288 4,645,066 Unrestricted Funds £ 14,392 31,967 6,431 52,790 Unrestricted Funds £ 5,433 20,922 6,835 33,190 |
Restricted Funds £ - - - Restricted Funds £ - - - - - Restricted Funds £ - - - - - Restricted Funds £ - - - - Restricted Funds £ - - - - |
Endowment Funds £ - - - Endowment Funds £ - - - - - Endowment Funds £ - - - - - Endowment Funds £ - - - - Endowment Funds £ - - - - |
2024 Total Funds £ 9,896 511 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10,407 | ||||
| 2025 Total Funds £ 5,129,703 (223,477) 194,827 60,354 |
||||
| 5,161,407 | ||||
| 2024 Total Funds £ 4,625,740 (212,307) 198,345 33,288 |
||||
| 4,645,066 | ||||
| 2025 Total Funds £ 14,392 31,967 6,431 |
||||
| 52,790 | ||||
| 2024 Total Funds £ 5,433 20,922 6,835 |
||||
| 33,190 |
Page 23
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
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 salaries 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 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 £ 2,535,186 55,068 151,686 220,651 1,651 (18,748) 73 2,945,567 44,399 60,019 40,204 (1,180) 143,442 35,945 272,927 171,868 4,859 114,716 66,013 97,852 92,346 856,526 537,151 5,845 884 16,299 196,717 43,199 32,142 8,517 2,749 56,953 3,360 18,650 922,466 4,868,001 |
Restricted Funds £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
Endowment Funds £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
2025 Total Funds £ 2,535,186 55,068 151,686 220,651 1,651 (18,748) 73 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2,945,567 | ||||
| 44,399 60,019 40,204 (1,180) |
||||
| 143,442 | ||||
| 35,945 272,927 171,868 4,859 114,716 66,013 97,852 92,346 |
||||
| 856,526 | ||||
| 537,151 5,845 884 16,299 196,717 43,199 32,142 8,517 2,749 56,953 3,360 18,650 |
||||
| 922,466 | ||||
| 4,868,001 |
Page 24
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
| 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 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 25
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
7. Governance costs
| Unrestricted Funds £ Salaries 10,000 Auditors' fees - current year 8,650 18,650 Unrestricted Funds £ Salaries 10,000 Auditors' fees - current year 10,380 20,380 8. Fees payable to independent auditors Unrestricted Funds £ Auditors' remuneration - audit 8,650 Unrestricted Funds £ Auditors' remuneration - audit 10,380 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 £ £ - - 2025 Total £ 3,069,817 312,540 81,348 3,166 3,466,871 at either period end 2025 117 |
2025 Total Funds £ 10,000 8,650 |
|---|---|---|
| 18,650 | ||
| 2024 Total Funds £ 10,000 10,380 |
||
| 20,380 | ||
| 2025 Total Funds £ 8,650 |
||
| 2024 Total Funds £ 10,380 |
||
| 2024 Total £ 2,744,806 247,771 73,931 15,010 |
||
| 3,081,518 | ||
| 2024 107 |
During the year under review two employees received employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) of more than £60,000; one in the range of £60,000 - £70,000 and one in the range of £80,000 - £90,000. In the comparative year 2024, two employees received employee benefits of more than £60,000; one in the range of £60,000 to £70,000 and one in the of range £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 2025
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 | £ 38,898 38,898 Salary |
£ 4,438 4,438 2025 National insurance |
£ 1,166 1,166 Pension |
£ 30,914 30,914 Salary |
£ 3,115 3,115 2024 National insurance |
£ 927 Pension |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 927 |
In the current year, no remuneration was paid to spouses and children of trustees. In the prior year, remuneration for spouses and children of trustees amounted to £1,301. In addition national insurance contributions totalling £75 and pension contributions totalling £39 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 ten (2024: twelve) key management personnel amounted to £529,432 (2024: £530,115) during the year under review.
During the year one (2024: one) of the school's key management personnel received staff discounts in relation to their children's school fees of £13,800 (2024: £11,700). 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 £167 (2024: £114) was outstanding from these individuals.
No trustee (2024: 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 (2024: seven) of key management personnel totalled £1,426 (2024: £2,542) for training, travel 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% (2024: 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 J Harrison Tuition fees charged to 5 (2024: 4) Parent Trustees net of discounts amounted to |
2025 £ 140,527 |
2024 £ 95,373 |
|---|---|---|
The discounts, inclusive of sibling and reduced fees, which were provided on the same basis as those to other parents amounted to £18,573 (2024: £17,077). At the balance sheet date £13,182 (2024: £6,309) was outstanding from trustees educating their children at the school.
Page 27
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
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 - (763,750) 7,034,817 - - - - 7,034,817 7,798,567 |
Machinery & office equipment £ 393,046 - - 393,046 387,320 1,146 - 388,466 4,580 5,726 |
Fixtures & fittings £ 284,722 - - 284,722 268,690 1,603 - 270,293 14,429 16,032 |
Motor vehicles £ 21,904 - - 21,904 21,681 73 - 21,754 150 223 |
Classroom equipment £ 308,366 - - 308,366 289,558 1,651 - 291,209 17,157 18,808 |
Total £ 8,806,605 - (763,750) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8,042,855 | ||||||
| 967,249 4,473 - |
||||||
| 971,722 | ||||||
| 7,071,133 | ||||||
| 7,839,356 |
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 |
2025 £ 495,258 - - 11,222 506,480 141,209 365,271 506,480 |
2024 £ 470,827 - - 24,431 |
| 495,258 | ||
| 127,695 367,563 |
||
| 495,258 |
13. Debtors
| Fees outstanding Fee provision Prepayments VAT recoverable |
2025 £ 709,471 (250,000) 52,090 - 511,561 |
2024 £ 572,650 (250,000) 91,469 42,855 |
|---|---|---|
| 456,974 |
Page 28
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
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 |
2025 £ 68,000 121,517 73,597 232,775 495,889 £ 591,116 (591,116) 73,597 73,597 2025 £ - - |
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 |
16. Defined benefit obligation
| Brought forward Payments made Charge to statement of financial activities Carried forward |
2025 £ 826,000 (227,106) (18,894) 580,000 |
2024 £ 1,068,000 (216,292) (25,708) |
|---|---|---|
| 826,000 |
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 £ - 15,682 1,026,927 (495,889) - - 546,720 |
Designated funds £ 6,419,133 125,527 - - - (580,000) 5,964,660 |
Restricted funds £ - - 9,507 - - - 9,507 |
Endowment funds £ 652,000 365,271 - - - - 1,017,271 |
2025 Total funds £ 7,071,133 506,480 1,036,434 (495,889) - (580,000) 7,538,158 |
2024 Total funds £ 7,839,356 495,258 903,681 (1,138,810) (304,427) (826,000) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6,969,058 |
Page 29
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
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 - - - - 652,000 367,563 - - (2,292) - 365,271 1,019,563 - - (2,292) - 1,017,271 3,000 - - - - 3,000 3,789 - - - - 3,789 22,801 - - - (22,801) - 2,718 - - - - 2,718 32,308 - - - (22,801) 9,507 114,995 - - 10,532 - 125,527 (826,000) - - 18,894 227,106 (580,000) 7,187,356 - (768,223) - - 6,419,133 6,476,351 - (768,223) 29,426 227,106 5,964,660 (559,164) 5,459,775 (4,152,568) 2,982 (204,305) 546,720 5,917,187 5,459,775 (4,920,791) 32,408 22,801 6,511,380 6,969,058 5,459,775 (4,920,791) 30,116 - 7,538,158 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 £ 652,000 365,271 |
|---|---|---|
| 1,017,271 | ||
| 3,000 3,789 - 2,718 |
||
| 9,507 | ||
| 125,527 (580,000) 6,419,133 |
||
| 5,964,660 546,720 |
||
| 6,511,380 | ||
| 7,538,158 |
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 £ £ (227,106) 227,106 (227,106) 227,106 Unrestricted Funds |
General Designated £ £ (227,106) 227,106 (227,106) 227,106 Unrestricted Funds |
|---|---|---|
| 227,106 | ||
Page 30
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
20. Financial instruments
The carrying amounts of the charity's financial instruments are as follows:
| 2025 Total Funds £ Financial assets Measured at fair value through net income/(expenditure): Fixed asset investments (note 12) 506,480 506,480 Debt instruments measured at amortised cost: Trade debtors (note 13) 709,471 709,471 Financial liabilities Measured at amortised cost: Trade creditors (note 14) 121,517 Bank loan (notes 14 and 15) 68,000 189,517 The income, expense, net gains and net losses attributable to the charity's financial instruments are summarised as follows: 2025 Total Funds £ Income and expense Financial assets measured at fair value through net income/(expenditure) Investment income 7,222 7,222 Net gains and losses (including changes In fair value) Financial assets measured at fair value through net income/(expenditure) Unrealised gains/(losses) on investments 11,222 11,222 |
2024 Total Funds £ 495,258 |
|---|---|
| 495,258 | |
| 572,650 | |
| 572,650 | |
| 75,393 409,725 |
|
| 485,118 | |
| 2024 Total Funds £ 7,274 |
|
| 7,274 | |
| 24,431 | |
| 24,431 |
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 £ 52,727 52,727 79,091 184,545 |
Vehicles £ 34,404 34,404 77,312 146,120 2025 |
Total £ 87,131 87,131 156,403 330,665 |
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 |
The total operating lease payments recognised as an expense in the Statement of Financial Activities during the year were £125,373.
Page 31
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
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 |
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) |
Cash flows £ (341,725) - (341,725) (78,166) (419,891) |
2025 £ 68,000 - |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 68,000 (524,873) |
|||||
| (456,873) |
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 £ 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 25,708 |
||||
| 442,934 6,526,124 |
||||
| 6,969,058 |
Page 32
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
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 Fixed asset reserve Total designated funds General reserves Total unrestricted funds Total funds |
Brought 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 |
Incoming resources £ - - - - - - - - - - - - 4,812,229 4,812,229 4,812,229 |
Outgoing resources £ - - - - - - - - - - (5,130) (5,130) (4,414,302) (4,419,432) (4,419,432) |
Unrealised gains/ (losses) £ - 26,484 26,484 - - - - - (522) 25,708 - 25,186 (1,529) 23,657 50,141 |
Transfers £ - - - - - - - - - 216,292 - 216,292 (216,292) - - |
Carried forward £ 652,000 367,563 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1,019,563 | ||||||
| 3,000 3,789 22,801 2,718 |
||||||
| 32,308 | ||||||
| 114,996 (826,000) 7,187,357 |
||||||
| 6,476,353 (559,162) |
||||||
| 5,917,191 | ||||||
| 6,969,062 |
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:
-
Deferred members: members who have left pensionable service with deferred benefits which have yet to come into payment.
-
Pensioner members: members in receipt of pension.
The value of the defined benefit obligation for the 31 July 2025 is derived by approximately adjusting the results of the triennial valuation as at 29 December 2024.
In adjusting the value of the defined benefit obligation allowance has been made over the relevant periods for:
-
benefits paid out to members;
-
price inflation; and
-
member movements; and
-
impact of known inflation.
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 2024 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 2025
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
| 24. Pensions (continued) | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | end 31 July | 2025 | Year | end 31 July | 2024 | |
| Significant actuarial assumptions | ||||||
| Discount rate | 5.60% pa | 5.00% pa | ||||
| RPI inflation | 3.10% pa | 3.20% pa | ||||
| CPI inflation | 2.60% pa | 2.90% pa | ||||
| Mortality assumptions | ||||||
| Mortality | 100% S4PMA_All/ | 100% S3PMA_All/ | ||||
| 100% S4PFA_All | 100% S3PFA_All | |||||
| CMI_2024_M/F | CMI_2023_M/F | |||||
| [1.25%] (yob) | [1.25%] (yob) | |||||
| Other actuarial assumptions | ||||||
| Pension increases: | ||||||
| Pre 88 GMP | Nil | Nil | ||||
| Post 88 GMP | 2.30% pa | 2.40% pa | ||||
| Pre 97 excess | Nil | Nil | ||||
| 97-05 pension | 2.60% pa | 2.90% pa | ||||
| Post 2005 pension | 2.00% pa | 2.10% pa | ||||
| Revaluation of deferred pensions in excess of GMP: | 2.60% pa | 2.90% pa | ||||
| Life expectancies (in years) | ||||||
| Male | Female | Male | Female | |||
| For an individual aged 65 in 2024 | 21.6 | 23.8 | 21.4 | 24.0 | ||
| At age 65 for an individual aged 45 in 2024 | 22.8 | 25.3 | 22.7 | 25.4 | ||
| The fair value of the Charity’s share of the assets of the Scheme was: | ||||||
| Year | end 31 July | 2025 | Year | end 31 July | 2024 | |
| £'000s | £'000s | |||||
| Asset class | ||||||
| Equities | 1,333 | 1,201 | ||||
| Diversified Credit Funds (DCFs) | 489 | 418 | ||||
| Liability Driven Investments (LDIs) | 441 | 432 | ||||
| Diversified Growth Funds (DGFs) | 679 | 746 | ||||
| Buy and Maintain Funds | 82 | 73 | ||||
| Cash | 98 | 22 | ||||
| Total | 3,122 | 2,892 | ||||
| The return on the assets was: | ||||||
| Year | end 31 July | 2025 | Year | end 31 July | 2024 | |
| £'000s | £'000s | |||||
| Return | ||||||
| Interest income | 141 | 134 | ||||
| Return on assets less interest income | 231 | 216 | ||||
| Total return on assets | 372 | 350 | ||||
| Reconciliation to the balance sheet: |
Page 34
MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2025
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
| 24. Pensions (continued) | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year end | 31 July 2025 | Year end | 31 July 2024 | ||
| £'000s | £'000s | ||||
| Market value of assets | 3,122 | 2,892 | |||
| Present value of defined benefit obligation | 3,702 | 2,718 | |||
| Funded status | (580) | (826) | |||
| Irrecoverable surplus | - | - | |||
| Pension asset/(liability) recognised in the Statement of Financial Position before allowance for deferred tax |
(580) | (826) | |||
| Reconciliation of Scheme's assets and defined | benefit obligation | ||||
| Assets | Defined benefit obligation | Net position | |||
| £'000s | £'000s | £'000s | |||
| At 1 August 2024 |
2,892 | (3,718) | (826) | ||
| Benefits paid: | |||||
| Pensions |
(217) | 217 | - | ||
| Transfers |
- | - | - | ||
| Other |
- | - | - | ||
| Employer contributions |
227 | - | 227 | ||
| Member contributions |
- | - | - | ||
| Current service cost |
- | - | - | ||
| Administration expenses |
(152) | - | (152) | ||
| Past service cost |
- | - | - | ||
| Settlements |
- | - | - | ||
| Business combinations/bulk transfers |
- | - | - | ||
| Interest income/cost |
141 | (181) | (40) | ||
| Remeasurement gains/(losses): | |||||
| Actuarial gains/(losses): Change of basis |
- | 230 | 230 | ||
| Actuarial gains/(losses): Experience | - | (250) | (250) | ||
| Return on assets excluding interest income |
231 | - | 231 | ||
| At 31 July 2025 |
3,122 | (3,702) | (580) |
Page 35