Aspiring School Business Managers Programme
Online
Learning
If you’re considering a career in school business management, the Aspiring School Business Managers Programme provides a practical introduction to the profession and the role of the modern School Business Manager. As schools and academies continue to evolve, the importance of effective school business leadership continues to grow.
Through practical learning and expert support, participants develop the knowledge, confidence and understanding needed to explore opportunities within schools and trusts, while schools benefit from building internal capability and succession planning.
Covering key areas such as finance, operations, HR and procurement, the programme provides a strong foundation for a future career in school business management.
- School Business Foundations
- Expert-Led Learning
- Future Career Opportunities
Start Your SBM Journey
The Aspiring School Business Managers Programme is designed for individuals looking to move into school business management or explore opportunities within schools and trusts.
Whether you are considering a career change or developing future talent within your school, the programme provides a valuable introduction to this growing profession.
The Role of the School Business Manager – Understand the responsibilities, challenges and opportunities associated with school business management in schools and academies.
Finance & Resources – Explore the fundamentals of budgeting, financial planning and resource management within education settings.
People & HR – Gain an introduction to workforce planning, recruitment and staff management within schools.
Operations & Compliance – Learn how school business professionals support effective operations, risk management and statutory responsibilities.
Working in Schools & Trusts – Understand how schools and trusts are structured and how business functions contribute to organisational success.
Career Development & Next Steps – Explore progression routes, professional development opportunities and pathways into school business management.
Participants Will Benefit From:
- A practical introduction to school business management
- Greater confidence in exploring future SBM career opportunities
- Insight into the responsibilities of the modern School Business Manager
- Understanding of key areas including finance, HR, operations and procurement
- Opportunities to learn from experienced education professionals
- Connections with other aspiring school business professionals
The Aspiring School Business Managers Programme is designed for individuals interested in exploring a future career in school business management.
The programme costs £399 (+ VAT) per participant.
Delivered fully online, it provides a flexible and accessible introduction to the profession, with no formal entry requirements. Please contact us at sbmpartnership@serco.com if you would like to discuss your suitability.
The Aspiring School Business Managers Programme is delivered through scheduled cohorts during the year.
If you are interested in joining a future intake, register your interest and a member of the team will contact you with information about upcoming dates, availability and the enrolment process.
Whether you are exploring a career change or taking your first steps towards school business management, the programme provides a flexible and accessible route into the profession.
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.
If you’d like to learn more about the Aspiring School Business Managers Programme, our team will be happy to help. Whether you’re considering a career change, exploring opportunities in school business management, or wondering if the programme is right for you, we can provide further information and guidance.
Email: sbmpartnership@serco.com
Common Questions
Who is the programme suitable for?
The Aspiring School Business Managers Programme is suitable for individuals interested in moving into school business management or exploring future opportunities within schools and trusts. It’s particularly relevant for those considering a career change or looking to gain a better understanding of the School Business Manager role.
How is the programme delivered?
The programme is delivered fully online through six one-hour sessions, supported by a small number of associated tasks. Sessions take place once a week over a 6–7 week period and are usually held on a weekday evening.
Participants will also have the opportunity to hear from current School Business Managers and those who have successfully transitioned into the profession.
How much study time is required?
The programme has been designed to fit around existing work and personal commitments. In addition to attending the six online sessions, participants should allow a small amount of time to complete associated activities and reflect on their learning throughout the programme.
How do I apply for the programme?
To apply, complete the online application form. The form takes approximately 15 minutes to complete and must be completed in one session, as progress cannot be saved and returned to later.
Once your application has been received, a member of the programme team will contact you with further information about the programme and next steps. If you have any questions before applying, please contact the team on 0121 281 5215.
What You’ll Gain
- Understand the responsibilities of a modern School Business Manager
- Gain insight into finance, HR, operations and procurement
- Learn from experienced school business professionals
- Explore pathways into school business management roles
- Build confidence in your future career decisions
What You'll Study
Why choose Serco?
Serco has extensive experience supporting education professionals through high-quality training and development programmes delivered across the UK education sector. Through the School Business Management Partnership (SBMP), Serco works with experienced education specialists to deliver practical, flexible learning for aspiring school business professionals.
The facilitators supporting the Aspiring School Business Managers Programme bring first-hand experience from across education, school business management and leadership. Participants benefit from real-world insight into the profession, helping them build confidence, explore career opportunities and gain a deeper understanding of the School Business Manager role.
Helpful Resources
Upcoming Start Dates
Waiting for the Next Intake?
Register your interest to hear about future intakes.
- Commercial training
- Education
- Programme type: School Business Management
- Price: £399 (+VAT)
- Duration: 6 - 7 weeks
- Delivery: Online
- Awarding organisation:
Why Choose the Aspiring SBM Programme
- Explore the profession before making a career change
- Hear directly from practising School Business Managers
- Gain real-world insight into the role and responsibilities
- Flexible evening sessions delivered online