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- Tasks: Lead financial management and operational strategy in a dynamic special school environment.
- Company: Join Villa Real, a nurturing school for students with diverse special educational needs.
- Benefits: Enjoy term-time work, generous leave, and professional development support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while working in a supportive and innovative team.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance or education; Level 4 qualification preferred.
- Other info: Visit the school to learn more; applications close on 30th June 2025.
The predicted salary is between 29300 - 31600 £ per year.
The Governors of this unique school seek to appoint a committed, motivated and enthusiastic School Business Manager. We welcome candidates with experience from educational or other financial backgrounds. For example, a teaching background or an existing School Business Manager/finance clerk within a school setting.
Villa Real is a dynamic, forward-thinking and nurturing Special School catering for students aged 2 to 19 years with a wide range of special educational needs. This includes complex medical conditions, severe learning difficulties and Autistic Spectrum Disorder.
The role is an exciting mix of operational management and strategic leadership as part of the Senior Leadership Team. We are looking for someone who:
- Can be flexible, resilient and able to prioritise essential tasks.
- Has highly developed leadership skills and the ability to manage a wide range of stakeholder relationships.
- Offers proven experience in financial management, budget setting and control, including managing relevant financial processes and procedures.
- Is able to generate income and help to facilitate/source external capital funds.
- Has knowledge of estate management, implementation of Health and Safety legislation and HR.
- Is committed to furthering their professional development which will be fully supported by the school.
- Has the relevant professional or academic qualification or is working towards Level 4 qualification with significant financial experience in education or a financial background.
- Will actively monitor the budget, Service Level Agreements and any contracts to ensure value for money is achieved.
- Has an excellent knowledge of ICT systems.
We encourage prospective candidates to visit our school and would welcome an opportunity to discuss the role further. To arrange a visit please call Jean Allen on 01207 503651.
An application form and information pack can be requested via email to villareal@durhamlearning.net or by telephone on the above number.
The ability to converse at ease with customers and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for the post.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and, if successful, you will need to apply for an enhanced DBS disclosure. As a disability confident employer, we are committed to employing disabled people and people with health conditions making reasonable adjustments to support disabled applicants when required.
Closing date: 30th June 2025 10am
Interview date: 8th July 2025
Please return completed applications to the school:
Villa Real School
Villa Real Road
Consett
Co. Durham
DH8 6BH
Tel: 01207 503651
Email: villareal@durhamlearning.net
Website: www.villarealschool.co.uk
School Business Manager employer: Durham County Council
Contact Detail:
Durham County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Business Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of special educational environments. Understanding the unique challenges and requirements of a school like Villa Real will help you demonstrate your commitment and suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those who have experience in school business management. Engaging with current or former School Business Managers can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your financial management experience in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed budgets, generated income, or implemented cost-saving measures in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Take the opportunity to visit Villa Real School before applying. This will not only show your genuine interest but also allow you to gather first-hand information about the school's culture and operational needs, which you can reference in your discussions.
We think you need these skills to ace School Business Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in financial management and operational leadership. Emphasise any roles where you've managed budgets or worked within educational settings.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the school. Mention specific skills that align with the job description, such as stakeholder management and knowledge of health and safety legislation.
Showcase Relevant Qualifications: If you have professional qualifications or are working towards Level 4 qualifications, be sure to mention these. Highlight any significant financial experience in education or related fields.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham County Council
✨Showcase Your Financial Expertise
As a School Business Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your experience in financial management. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of budget setting and control from your previous roles, highlighting how you ensured value for money.
✨Emphasise Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership abilities. Share instances where you've successfully managed teams or stakeholder relationships, showcasing your flexibility and resilience in challenging situations.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the School's Needs
Research Villa Real School and its unique environment. Understanding the specific challenges faced by special schools will help you tailor your responses and show your commitment to supporting students with diverse needs.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Engage with the interviewers by preparing thoughtful questions about the school's vision and how the business manager role contributes to it. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
