When Beth Brockwell enrolled on the Serco Education School Business Professional Apprenticeship (SBPA) Level 4, she was keen to build on her existing qualifications while continuing to work full time. In post at the North East Learning Trust, Beth discovered the programme via the Serco website and saw it as the ideal opportunity to develop her knowledge and progress her career in school business management. As Beth explains, “I wanted to enhance my knowledge and gain a recognised qualification that I could study alongside my role. The SBPA Level 4 Programme allowed me to build on my Business Management A Level while applying what I was learning directly in the workplace.”
The SBPA Level 4 Apprenticeship is a nationally recognised qualification designed for those working in education settings who want to develop the skills and behaviours required for school business management roles. The programme combines online learning, face-to-face workshops and one-to-one coaching, with content covering key areas including finance, procurement, leadership, governance and operational management.
Reflecting on her experience, Beth found the programme both challenging and rewarding. She notes, “The course is demanding and does require good time management, but I really enjoyed it.” Beth found the online learning materials detailed and easy to follow, adding that “the support from tutors and facilitators throughout the programme made a huge difference.”
Beth particularly valued the face-to-face learning days, which provided opportunities to network with peers across the sector and share best practice. She also described the End-Point Assessment (EPA) as a positive and stress-free experience, explaining that it reflected the preparation and support built into the programme. Her commitment and hard work were recognised when she successfully completed the apprenticeship with a Distinction.
Throughout the programme, apprentices are supported by a dedicated coach, facilitators, their employer and peer networks. Beth’s coach, Karen Cook, reflected on Beth’s journey, saying, “From the moment I met Beth, I could see her real passion for school business management. Although the programme challenged her, I provided guidance to help her unlock her potential and apply her new learning effectively.”
The impact of the SBPA Level 4 Programme was evident during Beth’s time on the course. She was promoted and took on additional responsibilities within the Trust’s Primary sector, developing greater confidence and a deeper understanding of areas such as procurement. Reflecting on the wider impact, Beth said, “The impact the course has had on my professional career is immense. It has given me so much confidence and drove me to study further. I would recommend it to anyone wishing to pursue a career in school business management.”
The School Business Professional Apprenticeship (Level 4) runs regular cohorts throughout the year. For further information, or to apply, please click here.
