At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial, operational, and compliance functions at a vibrant school.
- Company: Join Greenwich Waldorf School, a nurturing independent school for ages 3-18.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, bank holidays, and a supportive leadership team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while working in a creative environment.
- Qualifications: Strong financial and operational management experience required; school sector experience is a plus.
- Other info: Commitment to safeguarding children is essential; enhanced DBS check required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Full-time | 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) | Permanent | Start Date: September 2025 or sooner
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
Location: Greenwich Waldorf School, Woodlands, 90 Mycenae Rd, Blackheath, London SE3 7SE
Are you a dynamic and experienced operations or finance professional ready to make a meaningful difference in education? Are you ready to join a newly-formed leadership team and a committed staff community on an ambitious journey to deliver outstanding education for every pupil? If so then we would love to hear from you.
Greenwich Waldorf School is an independent, co-educational school for pupils aged 3–18. We are seeking a skilled and proactive Bursar to join our Senior Leadership Team and lead the operational, financial and compliance functions of the school.
The Role
As Bursar, you will report to the Principal and work closely with the Board of Trustees. You will oversee all non-teaching aspects of school operations including:
- Finance: Managing budgets, cashflow, payroll, and external financial services
- Premises & Facilities: Ensuring the estate is safe, well-maintained and aligned with long-term development goals
- HR & Compliance: Overseeing HR procedures, safer recruitment, and ensuring regulatory compliance (including Health & Safety and Data Protection)
- Administration & Support Teams: Leading non-teaching staff and managing relationships with outsourced service providers
This is a strategic leadership role ideal for someone who enjoys varied responsibilities and wants to contribute to the growth and development of a values-led school.
About You
We are looking for a candidate who:
- Has very strong financial and operational management experience (school or charity sector experience is desirable)
- Can think strategically while managing day-to-day functions
- Understands the importance of safeguarding, compliance, and HR best practices
- Is a confident communicator and collaborative team player
- Is aligned with the ethos and values of a Waldorf/Steiner education environment
Why Join Us?
- Opportunity to shape the future of a growing independent school
- Work in a creative and nurturing environment
- Part of a committed and supportive leadership team
- Varied and rewarding role with real impact
How to Apply:
Please download the Job Description and Personal Specification for more details. Please complete the application form and ensure all aspects of the job description and personal specification are covered in your personal statement and/or work experience. Visits to the school are welcomed and can be arranged by emailing the school office at the address in the Job Description.
Greenwich Waldorf School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references, including a check of their suitability to work with children.
Closing date: 12:00 noon, Monday 16th June 2025
Interviews: TBC, week beginning 16th June 2025
Greenwich Waldorf School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We particularly welcome applications from underrepresented groups including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.
School Bursar employer: Steinerwaldorf
Contact Detail:
Steinerwaldorf Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Bursar
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Waldorf education philosophy. Understanding the ethos and values of the school will not only help you align your application but also demonstrate your commitment to their mission during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former staff members at Greenwich Waldorf School. Engaging in conversations can provide you with insights into the school's culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when discussing your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples from your past experience that showcase your financial and operational management skills. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully handled similar responsibilities in previous roles, especially in educational or charitable settings.
✨Tip Number 4
Visit the school before your interview if possible. This will give you a feel for the environment and allow you to ask informed questions, showing your genuine interest in becoming part of their community.
We think you need these skills to ace School Bursar
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description and personal specification for the School Bursar position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application.
Craft a Strong Personal Statement: In your personal statement, clearly demonstrate how your experience aligns with the role. Highlight your financial and operational management experience, and provide specific examples of how you've contributed to similar environments.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your work experience, focus on roles that involved finance, compliance, and HR management. Use bullet points to make it easy for the hiring team to see your relevant achievements and responsibilities.
Align with the School's Values: Make sure to express your alignment with the ethos and values of Waldorf/Steiner education in your application. This can be a deciding factor for the hiring team, so be genuine and specific about why you resonate with their mission.
How to prepare for a job interview at Steinerwaldorf
✨Understand the School's Ethos
Before your interview, take some time to research the Waldorf/Steiner education philosophy. Being able to articulate how your values align with the school's mission will demonstrate your commitment and suitability for the role.
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
As a Bursar, financial management is key. Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in managing budgets, cash flow, and payroll. Use specific examples to illustrate your expertise and how it can benefit the school.
✨Highlight Compliance Knowledge
Given the importance of compliance in this role, be ready to talk about your understanding of HR procedures, safeguarding, and regulatory requirements. Mention any relevant experiences that showcase your ability to maintain high standards in these areas.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
This position involves leading non-teaching staff and collaborating with various stakeholders. Prepare to share examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, focusing on your communication and teamwork skills.