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Transition to the Risk Protection Arrangement for affected Leeds Schools:-

Important Update: Starting from 1st April 2025, all schools currently participating in the Leeds City Council (LCC) Insurance Programme will no longer have access to this coverage. Affected schools must either transition to the Department for Education (DfE) Risk Protection Arrangement (RPA) or secure alternative insurance arrangements. This change affects all insurance policies, including but not limited to:
Property Insurance (including business interruption and outage)
Personal Accidents
Crime Insurance
Engineering Inspections
Motor Insurance
Liability Insurance (including employers, public, governor, professional indemnity, libel, and slander)

Additionally, the LCC will cease to offer the School Staff Sickness Absence Scheme (SASS) from the same date. Schools can access similar provisions through the RPA or explore independent alternatives.

Leeds schools were informed of this transition back in July 2024 and received detailed communications and support, including webinars organised by the DfE.

Overview of the Risk Protection Arrangement (RPA)

The RPA serves as an alternative to commercial insurance, designed specifically for public sector schools in England. Here’s what schools need to know about joining the RPA:
Comprehensive Coverage: The RPA provides coverage for losses typically included in standard school insurance policies, with financial protection for covered claims.
Cost Structure: The RPA employs a per-pupil pricing model:
Academies: £25 per pupil for the current academic year; increases to £27 for the next year.
Local Authority Maintained Schools: £25 per pupil for the current financial year; increasing to £27 thereafter.
Eligibility and Joining: Public sector schools can join at any time using a DfE Sign-in account. Multi-academy trusts (MATs) can also join in phases.

Benefits of Membership
RPA membership offers several advantages:
Financial Protection: Covers the cost of losses within membership limits, ensuring schools are financially supported.
Peace of Mind: Schools can focus on education knowing they have financial backing for covered risks.
Access to Support Services: Members receive risk management advice, training, and additional resources.

Claims Process Post-1st April 2025
For any new claims related to incidents occurring on or after 1st April 2025, claims will be managed by the RPA’s appointed claims handling agents or legal teams. Schools will continue to handle claims through the LCC Insurance Section for incidents occurring before this date.

For detailed guidance on joining the RPA and understanding its benefits, you can visit the official page: Join the risk protection arrangement (RPA) for schools – GOV.UK

For any queries regarding this transition or queries regarding any current claims or claims predating 01 April 2025, please contact the council directly.

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