School Administration Foundation Certificate (SAFC)
Take the next step in your professional journey with the School Administration Foundation Certificate (SAFC) a practical, nationally recognised programme designed to help school administrators develop the skills, confidence and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s education environment.
Flexible learning is delivered by trusted regional providers Impact First, across the North East and North West and Teach Glos for all other regions.
Whether you’re new to school administration or looking to strengthen your existing experience, SAFC gives you the tools to become a more effective, organised and valued member of your school team. From communication and people management to finance and operational support, the programme is designed around the real challenges faced in schools every day.
Investment
Over 8 Months
Learning
Administration Skills
Certificate
- Professional Development
- Flexible Online Learning
- Trusted Tutor Support
Skills That Make a Difference in Schools
The School Administration Foundation Certificate (SAFC) is designed for school administrators and support staff who want to build confidence, strengthen their professional knowledge, and develop practical skills for today’s school environment.
The 8 month SAFC programme commences with an introductory Webinar and the launch of module 1. Subsequent modules will be launched at set times throughout the programme and will commence with a short module video, via a link provided by a tutor. All module work is submitted for assessment by e-mail.
Behaviours, Values & Ethics – Develop professional behaviours, effective planning and organisational skills, and an understanding of the values and ethics that support successful school administration.
Human Resources – Build knowledge of recruitment, communication, workforce planning and collaborative working within a school environment.
Finance & Infrastructure – Gain an introduction to school finance, resource management, health and safety, and the systems that support effective school operations.
Achieving Results – Apply your learning through a practical work-based project focused on supporting improvement within your school setting.
Looking for more detailed information about the programme structure, assessments and study requirements? Download the SAFC Guidance for Applicants document for full course details.
You Will Benefit From:
- Flexible online learning designed around busy school roles
- Support and guidance from experienced education professionals
- Opportunities to reflect on and improve your current working practice
- Enhanced confidence to progress within school administration and support roles
- Access to a trusted learning community focused on education excellence
Eligibility
Participants should:
- Be currently working within a school, academy or education setting
- Have the opportunity to apply their learning within their workplace
- Be committed to completing the online learning and programme activities over the 8-month duration
- Have support from their school or line manager where appropriate
Price Information
The programme cost is £499 (+VAT).
Many schools choose to fund professional development programmes as part of their staff development and training budgets. We recommend discussing funding opportunities directly with your school or organisation.
For more detailed information about the programme, entry expectations and course structure, please refer to the official applicant guidance document.
Applications are now open for the next SAFC cohort. Starting the programme gives you the opportunity to build practical skills, connect with fellow school professionals, and begin applying your learning within your role from the very start of the course.
By securing your place, you can:
- Start developing practical administration skills immediately
- Learn alongside a supportive network of school professionals
- Apply new knowledge directly within your school setting
- Build confidence and professional capability throughout the programme
Spaces are limited and demand can be high, so early application is recommended.
2026 Intakes
Apply for the
next available cohorts
Start date
October 2026
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.
We understand that choosing a professional development programme is an important decision. If you would like more detailed information about the SAFC programme structure, study expectations, assessments or eligibility requirements, you can download our full Guidance for Applicants document.
Whether you’re exploring if the programme is right for you or preparing to apply, the guidance document provides everything you need to know before getting started.
Common Questions
Who is the SAFC programme suitable for?
The programme is designed for school administrators and support staff who are looking to develop their knowledge, confidence and practical skills within a school or education setting. It is suitable for both new and experienced professionals working in administrative or operational support roles.
How is the programme delivered?
SAFC is delivered fully online, allowing participants to study flexibly alongside their current role. Learning includes online resources, guided activities and tutor support designed to fit around busy school schedules. Flexible learning is delivered by trusted regional providers Impact First, across the North East and North West and Teach Glos for all other regions.
How much study time is required?
The programme runs over 8 months, with participants expected to complete regular online learning and workplace-based activities throughout the course. Study time will vary, but the flexible structure is designed to support learning alongside full-time work.
How do I apply for the programme?
SAFC is delivered online nationwide through regional training partners.
Please apply by clicking on the relevant apply button route that matches your location:
- North East & North West regions: Impact First
- All other regions: Teach Glos
What You’ll Gain
- Practical administrative skills that can be applied immediately in the workplace
- Improved communication, organisation and professional working practices
- A stronger understanding of school systems, processes and support functions
- Greater confidence in supporting the day-to-day operations of a school
- A nationally recognised programme to support ongoing professional development
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 collaboratively with trusted regional providers Teach Glos and Impact First to deliver practical, flexible learning for school professionals nationwide.
The tutors and facilitators supporting the School Administration Foundation Certificate (SAFC) bring a wealth of experience from across education and school support services. Their practical insight helps participants build confidence, strengthen professional knowledge and develop the skills needed to support the day-to-day operations of a modern school.
Helpful Resources
- SAFC – Guidance for applicants
- SAFC – T&Cs
- Price Lists 2026
Please apply using the route that matches your location:
- North East & North West regions: Impact First
- All other regions: Teach Glos
Upcoming Start Dates
2026 IntakeS
Apply for
next available cohort
Starts date
October 2026
- Commercial training
- Education
- Price: £499 (+VAT)
- Duration: 8 months
- Delivery: Online
Why Schools Choose SAFC
- Flexible online delivery designed around busy school schedules
- Practical learning with immediate workplace impact
- Professional development that strengthens school operations
- Trusted delivery from leading education partners