Apprenticeship spotlight: School Business Professional Level 4

What do School Business Professionals do?

School Business Professionals may work in any school phase (primary, secondary, special) and in different school structures: single academy trusts, multi academy trusts (MATs), local authority-maintained schools and federations.

Consequently, they can work in very different settings with varying numbers of people that they report to, including the headteacher or School Business Director. Within this context, School Business Professionals have a shared number of roles which shape their day-to-day activity to make this a homogeneous role in schools.

Who is it best suited for?

The School Business Professionals Level 4 apprenticeship is designed for individuals who are taking on or are aspiring to take on a role that involves managing school finances, administration, and other business-related functions. This apprenticeship is well-suited for:

· Current School Staff: Individuals already working within a school in a business or administrative capacity who are looking to advance their careers and take on more responsibilities.

· Finance and HR Professionals: Individuals with a background in finance, human resources, or operations who are interested in specializing in the education sector.

· Career Changers: Professionals from other industries who have experience in business administration, finance, or management and are interested in transitioning into the education sector.

· Aspiring School Business Managers: People aiming to become school business managers or similar roles that involve overseeing the business operations of a school.

How is the training delivered?

The School Business Professional Level 4 apprenticeship is delivered in the workplace with a mixture of face to-face and remote sessions.

It is an 18-month programme with additional 3 months for End Point Assessment.

When does the training start?

This apprenticeship can start at any point during the year, offering convenience and flexibility to apprentices and their employers.

Qualification

Upon successful completion of the programme, apprentice will be awarded School Business Professional Standard qualification and will be eligible to become a full member of the Institute of School Business Leadership. The qualification may also be used as a stepping stone for those aspiring to a senior or strategic role in the school business profession.

What are the apprenticeship benefits to employer?

Apprenticeships are a cost-effective way of developing and supporting in-house talent, that has been growing in popularity with individuals and businesses alike. They enable people to stay in employment while gaining industry-recognised qualifications, helping to address skill shortages not only by bringing in a new apprentice, but by investing in existing employees and fostering a culture of ongoing growth and succession planning.

What about the cost?

There are government funding options available up to 95% of the total cost. It depends on the size of your organisation and whether you pay apprenticeship levy or not. Find out more here.

Ready to talk?

If you are an educational organisation with an interest in School Business Professional apprenticeship, get in touch with our expert Employer Training & Apprenticeships team for a no-obligation consultation.

We can help assess your training needs, select the best apprenticeship programme to bridge the skill gaps, and advise on the best funding option. Whether you are looking to recruit an apprentice or upskill your current staff, we will support you and your apprentice every step of the apprenticeship journey.

Contact: employer.training@gloscol.ac.uk / 0345 1552020