At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead business functions and support the Headteacher in strategic planning.
- Company: Join the Watergrove Trust, a thriving Multi Academy Trust focused on community and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy professional development, a supportive team, and motivated students eager to learn.
- Other info: Commitment to safeguarding and equality is essential; diverse workforce valued.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a caring environment while shaping the future of young learners.
- Qualifications: Experience in school finance management and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Permanent Start Date: 01 September 2026
Working Pattern: 37 hours per week | Term Time Only plus 3 weeks
Salary: Grade 9
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. Following our expansion in February 2025, the Trust now proudly comprises nine member schools:
- Secondary: Wardle Academy, Matthew Moss High School, and Falinge Park High School.
- Primary: Kentmere Academy, St. James’ CE Primary School, St. Andrew’s CE Primary School, Moorhouse Academy, St Mary’s CE Primary School, and Sandbrook Community Primary School.
At Sandbrook Community Primary School, we are a learning community that cares deeply for all our children and their families. We constantly strive to be the best learners and best educators we can be, learning to live healthily and happily in a fun, caring environment.
The Role
We are seeking to appoint a dedicated 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.
Key Responsibilities:
- Member of SLT
- Contribute strategically to whole‑school leadership, supporting operational planning, school improvement priorities and organisational development.
- Financial planning, budget monitoring and forecasting
- Support the school in achieving financial sustainability through financial planning, budget monitoring, forecasting, identification of efficiencies and funding opportunities.
- Leadership and performance management
- Lead, line manage and develop support teams, including appraisal, wellbeing support, training and professional development.
- Safeguarding and operational safety
- Contribute proactively to safeguarding culture and operational systems across the school, including contractor and visitor management, site procedures and compliance processes.
- Behaviour and student‑facing support
- Support wider pastoral and behaviour systems where appropriate, working collaboratively with staff, pupils and families to maintain a positive and safe school environment.
- Strategic reporting and governance
- Analyse and present operational and financial information to senior leaders and governors to support strategic decision‑making and school improvement.
- Estates and compliance leadership
- Lead operational compliance across estates, health and safety and risk management, supporting the school in maintaining compliance and operational readiness for external inspection, audit and statutory requirements.
- Sustainability Data protection, compliance and governance
- Lead operational compliance relating to GDPR, data protection and information governance, including responding to Subject Access Requests (SARs) and maintaining confidentiality and secure data practices.
- Staff absence management
- Monitor and manage staff attendance. Completing RTW and HRA for staff to line manage.
About You
We are looking for a professional who:
- 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 their team, ensuring an efficient, regular service.
- Is proactive in ensuring the school site and estate are managed to the highest standards.
- Is patient, professional, positive, and able to build relationships built on trust and respect with all stakeholders.
- Is flexible, adaptable, and possesses excellent communication, interpersonal, and administrative skills.
- Prioritises safeguarding and can seamlessly support the work of the Safeguarding Team.
- Is fully committed to Equality and Diversity in every aspect of their professional conduct.
What We Can Offer You
- Friendly, motivated, and caring children who genuinely enjoy learning and are keen to succeed.
- An enthusiastic, committed, and welcoming school staff and community.
- A leadership team deeply committed to continuous school improvement.
- Fantastic CPD and professional learning opportunities available within both the school and the wider Trust network.
“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, we want to hear from you.”
Safeguarding & Equality
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 an enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check and a Childcare Disqualification Check. 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.
School Business Manager Level 3 in Castleton employer: Sandbrook Community Primary
The Watergrove Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment where staff are valued and encouraged to grow professionally. With a strong commitment to continuous improvement and a focus on safeguarding and equality, employees benefit from fantastic CPD opportunities and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children within a diverse community. Located in the West Pennine area, the Trust fosters a culture of care and motivation, making it an ideal place for dedicated professionals to thrive.
Contact Details:
Sandbrook Community Primary Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Business Manager Level 3 in Castleton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Watergrove Trust on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Trust's values and recent achievements. Show us that you’re not just another candidate, but someone who genuinely cares about our mission!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially around financial management and safeguarding. We want to see your confidence shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can keep you fresh in our minds and show us you’re really keen on the role.
We think you need these skills to ace School Business Manager Level 3 in Castleton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the School Business Manager role. Highlight your experience in financial planning and strategic support, as these are key aspects of the job.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your skills; demonstrate them! Use examples from your past experiences that show how you’ve successfully managed school finances or led teams. This will help us see how you can contribute to our community.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon and make sure your passion for education shines through!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sandbrook Community Primary
✨Know Your Numbers
As a School Business Manager, you'll be handling finances, so brush up on your budgeting and financial forecasting skills. Be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets in the past and any strategies you've used to ensure financial sustainability.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
This role involves leading support teams and contributing to whole-school leadership. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams, managed performance, and supported staff development. Highlight your ability to build relationships based on trust and respect.
✨Understand Safeguarding Practices
Safeguarding is a top priority for the Watergrove Trust. Familiarise yourself with safeguarding policies and be prepared to discuss how you've contributed to a safe school environment in previous roles. Show your commitment to protecting children and young people.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Equality and Diversity
The Trust values diversity and expects all staff to uphold these principles. Be ready to share your experiences related to promoting equality and diversity in the workplace. This will demonstrate that you align with the Trust's values and mission.
