Job Title: School business manager

What is a school business manager?

As state schools have become increasingly more independent, the need for a professional to co-ordinate their financial affairs has grown. The role of school business manager is similar to that of the bursar at independent schools.

The position, often part of the senior leadership team, will usually include a degree of financial management, procurement, health and safety, human resources, premises and facility management, marketing and administration. However, there are a whole host of job titles that come under the general heading of school business manager, including finance officer, office manager, director of finance or head of school support staff.

What qualifications and training are needed?

Some posts will require specific school-related experience and school business management qualifications. Experience of financial responsibility and people management will usually be required. According to the National Association of School Business Management (NASBM), most professionals coming from an alternative career background will possess a Level 6 qualification, such as a degree in business and finance.

The National College offers qualifications and training for business managers at all levels, including a certificate, diploma and advanced diploma in school business management. The 15-month school business director programme is aimed at managers who work in diverse or complex settings and allows participants to carry on to master’s level.

The National College also offers a number of workshops on topics such as conversion to academy status, school income generation, and leading procurement. NASBM runs a one-day workshop for those considering a career in this field.

What skills do they require?

The School Business Management Competency Framework sets out the skills needed by professionals at different levels, from school administrator to school business director – and the duties required of th