Pupil numbers across England are set to decline significantly over the next decade, with recent forecasts predicting a drop of over 800,000 by 2032–33. This shift brings major challenges for schools and trusts, particularly as funding is now closely tied to pupil numbers. Strategic planning around budgets, staffing, and curriculum is more important than ever.
This masterclass will explore how education leaders can respond effectively to falling rolls. We’ll look at national and local trends, the operational and financial impacts, and practical strategies to build resilience—ensuring your school or trust remains sustainable, adaptable, and focused on delivering strong outcomes for pupils.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
Headteachers, Principals, CEOs, CFOs, COOs, School Business Managers, Governors, Trustees, and anyone involved in strategic school leadership or planning.
KEY LEARNING OBJECTIVES
This Masterclass/session will enable you to gain:
A clear understanding of trends in pupil numbers at national and local levels
Insight into how roll changes affect funding forecasts, curriculum delivery, and staffing
Practical strategies to market your school effectively and attract pupils
Tools to engage your wider community (staff, parents, governors) in change management
Techniques to build resilience into your planning and school systems
FACILITATOR
Steve Burnage FCCT FRSA M.Ed is an experienced international consultant and trainer who has worked extensively with schools in India and worldwide. Having served over 25 years as a teacher and school leader in the UK, Steve is now in demand as a consultant, trainer, inspector, and author, specialising in the areas of leadership development, effective classroom pedagogy and practice; and school inspection, improvement, and development.
Steve is lead inspector and academic consultant for The British Council and a lead trainer and principal examiner in Educational Leadership for Cambridge International Examinations and The International Baccalaureate.
