If your school’s enrolment and operational policies aren’t watertight, you’re leaving the door open to disputes, financial risks, and compliance failures. A misstep in enrolment decisions can lead to costly legal battles, while weak operational frameworks can undermine institutional stability. Strengthening policies and practices now helps protect against legal challenges, ensures compliance, and safeguards long-term viability. Don’t wait for a crisis - take action before small issues become major risks.

Presenters

Dr Steven Middleton, Associate Principal, St Margaret’s Berwick Grammar
Dr Steven Middleton is an accomplished educational leader with close to 30 years of experience across several leading Independent Schools. Holding a Doctorate in Education from The University of Melbourne, Dr Middleton has a profound commitment to enhancing student and staff well being, promoting academic excellence, and fostering community engagement. As Associate Principal at St Margaret’s Berwick Grammar, Dr Middleton has been instrumental in leading strategic initiatives that have significantly improved academic results and school culture. Dr Middleton’s leadership style is marked by strategic vision, educational innovation, and a genuine commitment to developing inclusive, supportive school environments. His extensive experience and research focus on leadership and character education make him a respected figure in the educational community. Dr Middleton has both a professional and personal interest in legal matters to pertaining to schools.


Brett Heath, In-House Advocate, Carter Newell
Brett Heath is an inhouse advocate at Carter Newell Lawyers and has specialised in commercial and insurance litigation since 1988. Having worked inhouse for a specialist professional liability insurer, and completed the Bar Practice Course, Brett now conducts professional liability, large-scale public liability, director’s and officers’ liability, construction and employment litigation. As Carter Newell’s inhouse advocate, Brett appears in all courts and tribunals for the firm’s clients. Brett is a regular speaker on continuing professional development issues, particularly with respect to risk prevention for professionals, developments in insurance and real estate law, commercial drafting techniques and mediation and litigation strategies.

Legal Perspectives on Business and Finance Essentials for Schools Series

At the heart of every school’s operation lays the difficult task of balancing finances, legal obligations, and stakeholder relationships. Benefit from practical knowledge to help you navigate the complexities of school management, from understanding new funding regulations to managing construction contracts and insurance needs. Gain the tools to proactively address financial and legal challenges, ensuring smoother operations and ensure effective decision-making. Don’t let the risks of financial missteps, compliance issues, and unresolved leadership conflicts derail your school’s commercial success.