Facilities hire: Maximise school resources with caution

In the current landscape of financial uncertainty, SBLs are on the lookout for innovative ways to bolster their income streams. Exploring beyond the conventional, hiring out facilities like sports halls, playing fields, and theatres emerges as a lucrative option. It’s a chance for schools to leverage existing assets that often lie idle for extended periods

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on ISBL

While the idea of renting out school facilities is appealing, caution is crucial. All too often, facilities hire agreements lack the commercial protection schools need. Crafting a well-drafted agreement is paramount. Focus on essential terms, including payment structures, liability clauses, force majeure considerations, and clear termination provisions. This ensures a robust foundation that safeguards the school’s interests.

Safeguarding in the Spotlight

Recent updates to DfE’s “Keeping Children Safe in Education” and the introduction of new non-statutory guidance on after-school activities bring safeguarding to the forefront. Schools venturing into facilities rental must align their agreements with the latest safeguarding requirements.

The guidance is crystal clear: when schools rent out facilities, the onus is on governing bodies or proprietors to guarantee child safety. This responsibility extends beyond services directly supervised by school staff. For external providers, assurance of robust safeguarding policies is non-negotiable. It’s not just a box-ticking exercise; it’s a fundamental commitment to ensuring a secure environment.

Building safeguarding into agreements

Embedding safeguarding requirements into hire facilities agreements is a proactive step schools must take. If external providers fall short of meeting these standards, termination of agreements should be swift.

As SBLs navigate the uncharted waters of financial uncertainty, unlocking the potential of facilities rental is a prudent move. Yet, this journey must be undertaken with due diligence. A well-structured hire facilities agreement, aligned with safeguarding standards, is the linchpin.