The ISBL National Conference 2023

We’d like to say a big thank you to ISBL for having us at their 2023 National Conference from 23 to 24 November, and for the honour of sponsoring the event’s drinks reception.

Jean Boyle (Partner and Joint Head of Education Sector), Craig Vincent (Partner (non-legal) and Head of Employment and Regulatory Team) and Surinder Dhillon (Senior Associate Solicitor) were the guardians of Stone King’s stall at the event, sharing with attendees the many ways in which the national law firm can help them navigate a host of difficult situations.

The theme of this year’s conference was “enlightened leadership”. Consequently, there was a particular focus on the need for school business professionals to have a holistic understanding of leadership, from strategic and financial planning to ensuring that all colleagues, whether governance- or pedagogy-focused, understand how and why choices are made.

It goes without saying that many serious conversations were had, but the team also made sure that everyone was enjoying their time at the conference and ran a selfie competition for visitors to their stall. The randomly selected winner was Tara Hanif of The Reach Free School Trust, who won a £25 “Buyagift” voucher and whose winning entry can be seen on our LinkedIn and Twitter channels.

Jean Boyle reflected on the event:

“Stone King has had a strong, fruitful partnership with ISBL now for many years, and has been fortunate enough to sponsor the ISBL National Conference on several occasions.

“We’ve been through a lot – from a global pandemic to uncertain and ever-changing political horizons, but we’ve adapted and adjusted together.

“Now, thankfully, the lockdowns are over, home-schooling feels like a thing of the past, and we’re allowed to hug again – but with a general election imminent, schools are still facing an uncertain future. 

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank ISBL for their continued support. As a business, Stone King’s focus is centred on community and connection and so much of that comes from our relationships with our intermediaries and our clients – we genuinely appreciate every single one of you.”