At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead business functions, manage finances, and support the Headteacher in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Join the Watergrove Trust, a caring community focused on academic excellence and character development.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive team, fantastic CPD opportunities, and work with motivated children eager to learn.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and safeguarding.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while developing your skills in a dynamic educational setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in school finance management and strong leadership skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 40000 £ per year.
Required to start: September 2026
Permanent Pattern of Hours: 36.25 hours per week; Term Time Only Plus 8 days
Salary: Grade 6; pts 19–22
About us: The Watergrove Trust is a highly successful Multi Academy Trust, situated in the West Pennine area, where community and faith schools work in partnership to serve our diverse local area. The schools share the same drive and determination to promote the best possible academic standards, whilst developing children of unique character, preparing them well for their lives ahead.
Role Overview: We are seeking to appoint a School Business Manager to play a key strategic role within our school. The successful candidate will lead the business functions of the Academy, providing essential support to the Headteacher to ensure the school makes the best possible use of its available resources. As a School Business Manager, you will hold responsibility for the management of Finance, Personnel, Training and Development, and Estate management. You will be a lead member of the Risk Team, ensuring effective risk management by maintaining the Compliance Tracker, reviewing Cal Q Risk, and managing third‑party service contracts and licences. You will also be responsible for the management of support staff across the school, including absence management, while ensuring all duties are performed in accordance with the Academy’s Equality and Diversity Policy.
Qualities and Experience:
- Can provide high‑level strategic business support to the Headteacher and lead all Academy business functions.
- Is experienced in managing the day‑to‑day running of school finances with precision and transparency.
- Has high expectations of themselves and the team, ensuring regular and efficient service in all duties.
- Is knowledgeable about risk management and can confidently provide updates for Governors and written Annual Reports.
- Can lead and manage support staff, fostering a positive environment through effective absence management.
- Is proactive in ensuring the school site and estate are managed to the highest standard.
- Patient, professional, and positive, able to build relations built on trust and respect with all stakeholders.
- Is committed to Equality and Diversity in every aspect of their professional conduct.
- Flexible and able to adapt quickly to support the changing needs of the Senior Leadership Team and the school.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and administration skills.
- Able to work in partnership with colleagues, parents, and outside agencies to secure the best outcomes for our children and families.
- Prioritises safeguarding and can support the work of the Safeguarding Team.
Benefits:
- Friendly, motivated and caring children who are keen to learn.
- An enthusiastic and committed staff.
- A leadership team committed to continuous school improvement.
- A friendly and welcoming school community.
- Wonderful children who enjoy learning.
- Fantastic CPD opportunities are available within the school and the Trust.
Equal Opportunities: The Watergrove Trust values diversity in its workforce. We are committed to ensuring that no unlawful discrimination occurs in the recruitment and selection process on the grounds of age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, transgender, including those with non‑binary identities, religion or belief or pregnancy and maternity.
Safeguarding Statement: Watergrove Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Appointment to this post is subject to pre‑employment clearances including enhanced Disclosure & Barring and Childcare Disqualification Check.
Application Process: At Watergrove Trust we believe that every child has great potential and we want to work together, as a team, to ensure that every child has the opportunity to fulfil that potential. If you share this belief and would like to play a key role in enhancing the lives of our students, then we want to hear from you.
School Business Manager Level 1 in Milnrow employer: Kentmere Academy
The Watergrove Trust is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where staff are valued and encouraged to grow. With a strong commitment to continuous professional development and a focus on community engagement, employees can thrive in their roles while making a meaningful impact on the lives of students. Located in the West Pennine area, the Trust offers a collaborative atmosphere among its nine member schools, ensuring that every team member contributes to a shared vision of educational excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Business Manager Level 1 in Milnrow
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees of the Watergrove Trust on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that interview! Research the Trust’s values and recent achievements. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who genuinely cares about their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your answers to common interview questions, especially around finance and risk management. We want you to sound confident and knowledgeable when discussing your experience!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email 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 School Business Manager Level 1 in Milnrow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for education and community shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in the lives of students and families.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We love seeing how your background aligns with our values and the role of School Business Manager.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key achievements and qualifications stand out without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Watergrove Trust.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kentmere Academy
✨Know Your Numbers
As a School Business Manager, you'll be handling finances, so brush up on your financial management skills. Be prepared to discuss budgeting, resource allocation, and any relevant software you’ve used. Show them you can manage the school's finances with precision and transparency.
✨Understand Risk Management
Familiarise yourself with risk management principles, especially those relevant to schools. Be ready to talk about how you would maintain compliance and manage risks effectively. This will demonstrate your proactive approach and understanding of the role's responsibilities.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
You’ll be leading support staff, so highlight your experience in managing teams. Prepare examples of how you've fostered a positive work environment and handled absence management. This will show that you can build trust and respect among your colleagues.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Equality and Diversity
The Watergrove Trust values diversity, so be sure to express your commitment to equality and diversity in your professional conduct. Share specific examples of how you've promoted these values in previous roles, as this aligns with their mission and culture.
