Chair’s welcome

Keynote: Stephen Morales, Chief Executive, ISBL

The ingredients that lead to successful operations
Stephen will provide delegates with insights from international research, highlighting the impact of ISBL’s Operational Excellence for Education Framework and its associated training. He will also share early success stories that illustrate the art of the possible.

Paul Edmond, Chief Finance & Sustainability Officer, HEART Academies Trust
and Co-chair, UK Schools Sustainability Network

Sustainable Procurement in Education: Building Greener Schools
Procurement is more than just buying what we need – it is a powerful lever for climate action and social action. In schools, the goods and services we purchase account for a significant share of our carbon footprint, far more than energy use or travel. Every textbook, piece of equipment, and outsourced service carries an environmental cost. As the climate crisis accelerates, we must rethink how we source, select, and manage these purchases. By embedding sustainability into procurement decisions, schools can reduce emissions, influence supply chains, and model responsible behaviour for future generations. This isn’t just about compliance – it’s about leadership. Procurement needs a fresh perspective so schools can turn their collective buying power into a force for positive change.

The plenary session will end with Q&A, giving attendees the chance to ask questions and promote discussion on the issues which are of most importance to them.