Comprehensive insurance for schools – beyond the RPA

Is your school adequately protected? Understanding the Risk Protection Arrangement (RPA)

If you’re already part of, or considering joining, the RPA, it’s important to know that some of the coverage provided is limited, and, in some cases, specific cover isn’t included at all. Below are four key questions for you to answer that will help you understand whether or not your school is fully protected under the RPA.

1.    Do you conduct regular engineering inspections on your lifting equipment and pressure plants, as required by legislation?

Whilst the RPA provides indemnity for repair or reinstatement costs if equipment like lifts or pressure plant is damaged due to perils such as fire, flooding, escape of water, and accidental damage, it doesn’t include breakdown cover or engineering inspection services. 

Any school with equipment such as service and passenger lifts, lighting gantries, and machine guarding is required to have periodic statutory inspections.

Engineering inspections ensure your equipment is safe and that your school is compliant with its statutory obligations. Insurance can be arranged to: 

• Cover breakdown and unforeseen damage to boilers and other pressure plant 
• Provide ‘new-for-old’ replacements

2.    Does your school have a vehicle, or a large fleet of vehicles? 
The RPA doesn’t currently provide cover for your school’s motor vehicles. Whether you have a single vehicle or a large fleet, it’s important to find the right level of protection, including options such as legal expenses and breakdown cover. 

3.    Are you planning to refurbish, extend, or add new buildings to your school? 
If you’re planning extensive building work, such as refurbishments or extensions, the RPA coverage may not be sufficient. Separate contract works insurance could be required for your building project to cover accidental loss, theft, or damage to tools and equipment, including hired-in plant.

4.    Does your cyber insurance cover the full cost of recreating data and systems? 
Did you know that over the past year, 52% of primary schools and 71% of secondary schools have experienced a cyber security breach or attack?

If your school has cyber coverage through the RPA, it's crucial to review your current policy. It may have limitations and might not cover extortion or the full costs of restoring your data and systems in the event of a cyber incident.

How to choose the right additional coverage

1.    Assess your needs: Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify areas where the RPA cover may not be sufficient or not provided at all. Consider your school's unique requirements, such as specialised activities, high-value assets, and specific liabilities.

2.    Consult with experts: Work with insurance professionals to understand the best options for additional coverage. They can provide tailored solutions that meet your school's specific needs.

3.    Review and update regularly: Insurance needs can change over time. Regularly review your coverage to ensure it remains adequate and up to date with your school's evolving requirements.

Why choose Howden?

With 60 years’ experience supporting the education community, we understand the unique challenges schools face when it comes to their insurance needs. Our team of experts is here to answer any questions you may have and help you identify any gaps in your existing cover. We offer tailored insurance solutions to ensure your school is fully protected against a wide range of risks. We offer: 

• Expert guidance: Our experienced professionals will work with you to assess your school's specific needs and recommend a suitable level of cover. 
• Comprehensive solutions: We provide a variety of insurance options, including engineering inspections, motor vehicle insurance, cyber security, and contract works. 
• Ongoing support: We offer continuous support to help you review and update your coverage as your school's needs evolve.

Don't let gaps in your insurance leave your school vulnerable. Contact Howden today to learn more about how we can help you achieve comprehensive protection for your school community.

Would you like to offer a broader range of wellbeing solutions for your pupils?

Our pupil assistance programme offers round-the-clock mental health and wellbeing support for pupils, including a parent/caregiver helpline. Learn more today.

Get in touch

You can contact our specialist team by calling 0333 234 1198 or emailing us at [email protected].