Looking back to help others spring forward – part one

The WORKING SBM offers some pearls of wisdom to those school business managers who may be starting out on the exciting, but challenging, journey of school business leadership

The most exciting change in my life is that I will become a gran early in 2021. My father gleefully told me that I would now have to behave with a little decorum, although there is no such expectation of a great grandparent he reckons. Having come this far through life without worrying too much about what others think of me, I do not intend to start now!

One thing about moving up the generational ladder is that I can now look forward to what this new age might bring. I can revisit all the simple things I loved about having my own children – countryside bug hunting, singing songs, simple toys and children’s television – as well as finding new experiences which were out of reach financially at that earlier time in my life.

I’m also excited about what these personal changes mean for my role as a school business manager  – and retirement couldn’t be further from my mind! I won’t pretend that I am suddenly going to become wise and perceptive but, as I also near the milestone of 20 years as a school business manager, surely I can impart some advice to those embarking out on this wonderful career path?

So, to all you new SBMs out there wondering what you have let yourself in for, here it is. Black and white, no holds barred, with very little decorum and a sprinkle of good humour. My top ten things I have learned to keep me afloat in my role as an SBM.

PUT IT DOWN

This has always been a big one for me. There are no prizes for a tidy desk. As long as your workspace is secure, walk away (and if it isn’t just sweep it all into a lockable drawer). The work will still all be there in the morning to pick up and carry on. Looking after you is the most important piece of advice on this list!

Demand training

Your role is one of the most important in the school (a controversial statement, but true) and you can’t do your job without the proper equipment and training. Take responsibility for this and don’t make excuses; allocate the budget to your training needs, complete the course and then take time to apply what you have learned to your setting. I would also advise you keep a record of your training which will help you to identify gaps. Remember, nothing is too small, and reading Education Executive every month is training.

Read the Academies Financial Handbook

Every year. Even if you are a maintained school or part of a big trust. Even if you are not yet an SBM. These are your industry regulations. You need to know them, and how to apply them in your setting. Then follow them. To the letter. No exceptions. (Have I made this point clear enough?)

Be confident

Following points one-to-three will help give you the gravitas you need to assert yourself in your role. You were appointed to manage the school operations. Welcome the support others give, but don’t let anyone try to do it for you. I once, rather bluntly, told my head that it was not an efficient use of our time to both attend an operations meeting, so he left me to get on with it.