At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial and operational functions to ensure a thriving school environment.
- Company: Donhead Preparatory School, a prestigious coeducational prep school in Wimbledon.
- Benefits: Join a supportive community with opportunities for professional growth and impact.
- Other info: Early applications encouraged; commitment to safeguarding and equal opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a significant difference in a values-led school while shaping its future.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance and leadership roles, with a passion for education.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Donhead Preparatory School is an outstanding 3-11 coeducational prep school located in Wimbledon. With a rich history dating back to 1933, this leading Catholic Jesuit school educates some 300 children aged 3 to 11. With a warm and caring environment, high-quality teachers and excellent facilities, Donhead provides an exceptional educational experience that prepares children for life at senior school and beyond. Donhead benefits from a strong reputation for academic excellence and character education, with pupils progressing to leading senior schools.
Located in Wimbledon, children enjoy a safe and secure site with exceptional facilities that create a special learning environment. The site has seen significant investment in recent years, with September 2017 seeing the completion of the School’s ten year, £8m capital development plan; the final stages of which include four new air-conditioned classrooms, a Chapel, an Art Centre and a 150-seat Auditorium for Music and Drama. The School’s Sports Ground is located a short distance from the main school site.
We are seeking an outstanding Bursar to join the Senior Leadership Team at Donhead Preparatory School. This is a pivotal strategic role, working closely with the Head and Governors to shape the long-term financial sustainability and operational excellence of the school. The Bursar will lead all non-academic functions, including finance, estates, health & safety, compliance, and commercial operations, ensuring the school continues to provide an exceptional environment for pupils, staff, and families. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and forward-thinking leader to make a significant impact in a thriving and values-led school community.
The successful candidate will understand, value and nurture Donhead’s mission and identity and build on its many achievements to date.
Interested parties should contact Celeste Franklin, Headteacher’s PA, to discuss their interest in the role and request an application form. Contact can be made via email headteacherpa@donhead.org.uk or by calling 020 8946 7000. Early applications are strongly encouraged as we reserve the right to appoint at any stage during the process. Deadline for applications is Friday 12th June 2026 at 9am.
The appointment is subject to at least two satisfactory references, receipt of Enhanced DBS disclosure, verification of identity and qualifications, satisfactory medical fitness, evidence of the right to work in the UK and DfE prohibition checks. Additional overseas checks will be required for candidates who have lived or worked outside the UK. Donhead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects every member of staff to share this commitment. Donhead is an equal opportunities employer.
Bursar employer: Catholic Independent Schools
Donhead Preparatory School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing environment for its staff within a prestigious educational setting in Wimbledon. With a commitment to professional development and a strong focus on values-led education, employees have the opportunity to grow alongside a dedicated team while contributing to the school's mission of academic excellence and character development. The recent investment in state-of-the-art facilities further enhances the work culture, making it a rewarding place to build a career in education.
Contact Details:
Catholic Independent Schools Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Bursar
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who know Donhead or similar schools. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could set you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Donhead's values and recent developments. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your vision aligns with their mission and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend to do a mock interview with you. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and boost your confidence when it’s time to shine in front of the panel.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email to Celeste Franklin can leave a lasting impression and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar!
We think you need these skills to ace Bursar
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role of a Bursar and what Donhead Preparatory School is all about. Dive into their mission and values, and reflect that understanding in your application. It shows us you're genuinely interested!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic CV and cover letter. Tailor your application to highlight your experience in finance, compliance, and operational excellence. We want to see how your skills align with our needs at Donhead.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and gets straight to the heart of your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for the role. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Catholic Independent Schools
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to understand Donhead Preparatory School's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to academic excellence and character education. This will help you align your answers with what they stand for, showing that you're not just a fit for the role but also for the school culture.
✨Prepare for Financial Discussions
As a Bursar, you'll be handling finances, so be ready to discuss your experience in financial management. Brush up on key financial concepts and be prepared to share specific examples of how you've contributed to the financial sustainability of previous organisations. This will demonstrate your capability and confidence in managing the school's resources.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role is part of the Senior Leadership Team, so it's crucial to highlight your leadership experience. Think of instances where you've led teams or projects successfully. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to operational excellence and work collaboratively with the Head and Governors to shape the school's future.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school's future plans, challenges they face, or how they measure success in non-academic functions. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the school is the right fit for you.
