Gaining insight into international recruitmet

What do independent schools and colleges need to consider when taking on international students and teaching staff from other countries? We speak to Michelle Holmes, founder and managing director of Holmes & Partners, to find out

1. What do independent schools and colleges need to do to be fully compliant with immigration regulations for international students?

UK independent schools and colleges that wish to enrol international students must comply with immigration regulations set forth by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

First, they need to apply for a sponsor licence from the UKVI to be able to sponsor international students to study in the UK. The ideology underpinning the sponsor guidance framework is clear: to achieve a cost neutral immigration system to the taxpayer, UKVI policies have increasingly shifted the burden of immigration control onto the sponsors of migrant students and workers through a regime of punitive compliance measures and monitoring. This includes maintaining proper records, monitoring students’ attendance and progress, and reporting any changes or non-compliance to the UKVI.

2. Likewise, what do independent schools need to consider when taking on teaching staff from other countries?

When UK independent schools consider hiring teaching staff from other countries, there are several important factors to consider. Firstly, the school must ensure that the teaching staff from other countries have the appropriate visa to work in the UK. The pay and conditions offered to teaching staff should be fair and in compliance with UK employment law. Finally, the school should ensure that it complies with UK immigration regulations, such as conducting right-towork checks and monitoring the visa status of teaching staff from other countries.

If the school wishes to employ an international worker who requires sponsorship to work in the UK, they can do this by obtaining a Sponsor license from the (UKVI). The Sponsor license allows the school to sponsor the worker’s visa application and to employ them legally in the UK. The school must meet certain requirements and obligations to maintain their sponsor license, such as complying with immigration regulations, keeping records, and reporting any changes or non-compliance to the UKVI.

3. For schools and colleges that do not have time for the administrative task of being compliant with immigration regulations, where can they go for help and support?

One option is to engage the services of an immigration specialist or an education consultancy firm that can provide guidance and support on immigration regulations and compliance. These experts can provide advice on visa applications, compliance requirements, and reporting obligations, as well as support with record keeping and monitoring students’ attendance and academic progress.

Another option is to join a professional association or network for independent schools and colleges, which often provide resources, training, and support on immigration regulations and compliance. These associations can also provide networking opportunities and access to best practices and resources from other schools and colleges.

The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) also provides support and guidance for schools and colleges on immigration regulations and compliance. They offer a range of resources, including guidance documents, webinars, and a dedicated helpline for queries and support.

4. What are the benefits of working or studying in the UK for international citizens?

Working or studying in the UK offers a range of benefits for international citizens. The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities and schools, providing access to a high-quality education and worldclass facilities. Working in the UK can offer international citizens access to a range of

Michelle Holmes

Michelle Holmes, the founder and managing director of Holmes & Partners Ltd, brings a wealth of experience in compliance and immigration matters career opportunities across various sectors, including finance, technology, healthcare, and education. The UK is a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, making it an ideal place for international citizens to experience a diverse range of people, languages, and traditions. Studying or working in the UK provides international citizens with an opportunity to improve their English language skills, which is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world and essential for many international careers. Additionally, the UK is known for its high standard of living, offering excellent healthcare, safety, and quality of life. Finally, living and working/studying in the UK can be a transformative experience, providing international citizens with opportunities for personal growth, self-discovery, and new friendships and connections. Overall, the UK offers many benefits for international citizens looking to work or study abroad. 

Before establishing her consultancy, Michelle served as the head of compliance for a multinational organisation where she provided guidance on sponsor license and student matters for a wide range of independent schools and colleges.