Independent schools briefing, July 2026

Some measure of financial relief is on its way for independent schools participating in the Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS). The latest TPS valuation results, published on 1 July 2026, confirm that the new TPS employer rate from April 2027 will fall to 17.68% of pay.

First Actuarial case studies

Barnardo’s

Leading UK charity, Barnardo’s, needed to review the group life assurance market as its policy approached renewal. First Actuarial listened carefully to Barnardo’s objectives and negotiated a cost-effective group life assurance premium.

BACB

At London-based British Arab Commercial Bank (BACB), there was an increasing focus on getting a better deal for members of the Defined Contribution (DC) Scheme. First Actuarial helped BACB move the Scheme to a master trust, delivering time and cost savings while improving the member experience.

Standard Group

Independent trustee ZEDRA approached First Actuarial to help take the Standard Group (UK) Pension Scheme through a £26m buy-in and wind-up. First Actuarial supported the Trustee throughout the process, with its end-to-end risk transfer service.