Invasion of Ukraine: ISC statement on schools helping crisis response and government sanctions

The ISC chief executive said: “Schools continue to support all students affected by the horrific invasion of Ukraine and associations representing the sector have been speaking to the UK Government about the collective desire to help with the crisis response. This ranges from existing work by schools to support relief initiatives to offers of school places for refugees, as well as some schools that are in a position to provide accommodation for Ukrainian families forced to flee their homes as a result of the Russian Government’s appalling actions.

“At the same time as trying to help, schools are aware of their obligations under relevant laws, regulations, and sanction requirements. Like all UK institutions and organisations, they are expected to check and review updates to the sanctions list to ensure they have no financial transactions with named individuals, companies or banks.

“Decisions over sanctions are for the Government and the sector both needs and welcomes support and ongoing guidance for schools from the Home Office and other organisations in helping them manage any concerns over the provenance of money. We continue to work with these agencies to encourage vigilance against suspicious fee payments and ensure reporting is carried out by schools as required.

“For a number of years, the Independent Schools’ Bursars Association has been providing schools with detailed guidance on anti money laundering, working closely with the Home Office and verified by legal experts. Guidance has recently been expanded, in cooperation with the Home Office and lawyers, to further support schools in meeting the requirements of the evolving sanctions regime.”