School Business Manager

School Business Manager

Leicester Full-Time 28800 - 43200 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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Oaklands School

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage school operations, including finance, HR, and health & safety.
  • Company: Join Oaklands School, a leading Special Needs Primary School in Leicester.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, professional development, and a supportive team environment.
  • Other info: Visit the school or arrange a Teams call to learn more before applying.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while working in a nurturing and creative atmosphere.
  • Qualifications: Experience in school management or similar roles is preferred.

The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.

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School Business Manager

(Grade 9 points 27-30)

37 hours per week and 40 weeks per year (Term time + INSET Days + 2 weeks flexible working; some working from home possible)

(Start date and weekly hours/ working pattern to be negotiated with the successful candidate)

Oaklands School is a welcoming and growing Special Needs Primary School specialising in working with autistic children and those with speech, language & communication difficulties. We are looking for a skilled School Business Manager to join the team, working closely with leaders to build on our strong foundations. We are Leicester City’s only National Autistic Society Advanced Accredited school and in 2025-26, one of only 8 Inclusion Quality Mark CHAMPION Schools nationally. We want the best possible start for our unique young people and are looking to appoint someone who will bring creativity, rigour and commitment to helping us achieve our goals and improve our children and families’ lives. We work closely with other schools, particularly the City of Leicester Association of Special Schools (CLASS) group and the new Business Manager will have access to a range of peer networking opportunities.

DescriptionSupporting documentsEmployerLocation

School Business Manager

(Grade 9 points 27-30)

37 hours per week and 40 weeks per year (Term time + INSET Days + 2 weeks flexible working; some working from home possible)

(Start date and weekly hours/ working pattern to be negotiated with the successful candidate)

Oaklands School is a welcoming and growing Special Needs Primary School specialising in working with autistic children and those with speech, language & communication difficulties. We are looking for a skilled School Business Manager to join the team, working closely with leaders to build on our strong foundations. We are Leicester City’s only National Autistic Society Advanced Accredited school and in 2025-26, one of only 8 Inclusion Quality Mark CHAMPION Schools nationally. We want the best possible start for our unique young people and are looking to appoint someone who will bring creativity, rigour and commitment to helping us achieve our goals and improve our children and families’ lives. We work closely with other schools, particularly the City of Leicester Association of Special Schools (CLASS) group and the new Business Manager will have access to a range of peer networking opportunities.

The School Business Manager will be responsible for operational functions within the school, including finance, administration, HR, premises, contracts and Health & Safety.

The role includes:

  • Working closely with the head teacher, senior leadership team and Governors
  • Providing accurate and timely financial reporting
  • Ensuring compliance with legal requirements with appropriate systems and policies
  • Providing line management for the office team and Premises Officers
  • Managing and improving the estate including maintenance and capital projects
  • Managing 3rd party supply contracts including IT, HR, H&S, cleaning & catering, ensuring high quality service and value for money procurement
  • We can offer:

  • a stimulating working place that is highly regarded both locally and nationally
  • a unique and welcoming staff team with an ambitious & supportive leadership team
  • flexible working opportunities that suit both you and the school
  • an investment in your personal and professional development
  • a nurturing, child-centred school ethos; wonderful pupils and families to get to know
  • an opportunity to create a legacy for our future community
  • Employee Assistance Programme
  • Closing date is Friday 29th August at 12 noon; Interviews to be held w/b 1st September

    We would like all prospective candidates to visit the school before applying. If this is not possible, we can arrange a Teams call with you at a mutually convenient time. To arrange a visit or call please contact the school. If you have any questions in relation to the post or application process our Headteacher, Sarah Osborne, or Deputy Headteacher, Ingrid Spencer, would be delighted to speak to you

    Safeguarding Statement

    We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants will be required to undertake pre-employment checks, such as an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check. Applicants who will be undertaking early and/or later years childcare (or the management of such childcare) will be required to complete a declaration that neither they, nor anyone who lives in the same household, is a disqualified person under the Childcare (Disqualification) Regulations 2009.

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    School Business Manager employer: Oaklands School

    Oaklands School is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and inclusive environment dedicated to the development of both staff and students. With flexible working opportunities, a strong commitment to professional growth, and a supportive leadership team, employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the lives of children with special needs. Located in Leicester, this unique school not only provides access to peer networking through the City of Leicester Association of Special Schools but also fosters a collaborative culture that values creativity and dedication.
    Oaklands School

    Contact Detail:

    Oaklands School 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 autistic children and those with speech, language, and communication difficulties. Understanding these challenges will not only help you in your role but also demonstrate your commitment to the school's mission during interviews.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those involved with special needs. Engaging with peers from the City of Leicester Association of Special Schools (CLASS) group can provide valuable insights and connections that may benefit your application.

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Prepare to discuss your experience in managing operational functions such as finance, HR, and compliance. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully handled similar responsibilities in previous roles.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Take the opportunity to visit Oaklands School or arrange a Teams call with the Headteacher or Deputy Headteacher. This shows initiative and genuine interest in the position, allowing you to ask questions and better understand the school's culture.

    We think you need these skills to ace School Business Manager

    Financial Management
    Human Resources Management
    Contract Management
    Health and Safety Compliance
    Operational Planning
    Project Management
    Communication Skills
    Leadership Skills
    Problem-Solving Skills
    Attention to Detail
    Time Management
    Team Management
    Knowledge of Special Educational Needs
    Adaptability
    Networking Skills

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a School Business Manager. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of Oaklands School, especially their focus on special needs education and working with autistic children.

    Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience in finance, administration, HR, and compliance. Emphasise any previous roles where you've worked closely with school leadership or managed teams, as this will be crucial for the position.

    Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for supporting children with special needs. Mention how your skills align with the school's goals and your commitment to improving the lives of children and families. Be sure to include specific examples from your past experiences.

    Prepare for the Interview: If selected for an interview, prepare by thinking about how you would handle the operational functions mentioned in the job description. Be ready to discuss your approach to financial reporting, compliance, and managing contracts, as well as your vision for contributing to the school's ethos.

    How to prepare for a job interview at Oaklands School

    ✨Understand the School's Values

    Before your interview, take some time to research Oaklands School and its commitment to supporting autistic children and those with communication difficulties. Be prepared to discuss how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission.

    ✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen

    As a School Business Manager, you'll be responsible for financial reporting and compliance. Be ready to provide examples of your experience in managing budgets, ensuring financial accuracy, and implementing cost-effective solutions in previous roles.

    ✨Highlight Your Leadership Skills

    The role involves working closely with the head teacher and senior leadership team. Prepare to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams, improved processes, or led projects in the past.

    ✨Prepare Questions About Collaboration

    Since the position requires collaboration with other schools and external partners, think of insightful questions to ask about their partnerships and networking opportunities. This shows your interest in teamwork and your proactive approach to building relationships.

    School Business Manager
    Oaklands School
    Location: Leicester
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