Freelance Peer Reviewer - Educational administration

Cactus Communications; City of Westminster; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An independent school in Central London is seeking a School Business Manager to provide administrative support to the Headteacher. This senior leadership role involves overseeing financial management, HR processes, and compliance with statutory requirements. The ideal candidate will have a degree, strong organisational and communication skills, and extensive experience in managing educational operations. This full-time position offers a one-month contract with a salary of £250 per week.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in financial and operational management within education.
• Strong knowledge of budgeting and HR processes.
• High level of IT literacy including MS Office and finance systems.

Responsibilities

• Support the Headteacher in the administration of the school.
• Oversee financial management and reporting.
• Manage HR processes, including recruitment and payroll.

Skills

Financial management

HR processes

Compliance requirements

Organisational skills

Communication skills

IT literacy

Education

Degree or equivalent professional qualification

Tools

MS Office

Finance systems

MIS

Job description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a School Business Manager to join a well-established independent school in London. This is a senior leadership role supporting the Headteacher in the overall administration and operational management of the school. The postholder will lead on finance, HR, compliance, health & safety, and governance, ensuring the school runs efficiently and meets statutory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Headteacher in the day-to-day running of the school and provide business and administrative support.
• Oversee financial management, including annual budgeting, forecasting, and reporting to senior leadership and governors.
• Manage HR processes including recruitment, payroll, and staff records in line with safeguarding and safer recruitment standards.
• Maintain the Single Central Register and ensure compliance with safeguarding and safer recruitment procedures.
• Ensure compliance with health & safety, data protection, and regulatory requirements.
• Act as Clerk to the Governors, preparing agendas, papers, and minutes for meetings.
• Liaise with internal teams and external contractors to maintain facilities and deliver operational services.
• Monitor and manage contracts, including catering and maintenance agreements.
• Provide strategic advice to the Headteacher and governors on risk management and operational improvements.
• Lead on inspections and ensure policies are up to date and compliant.
• Line manage support staff and foster a collaborative working environment.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Degree or equivalent professional qualification.
• Evidence of continuing professional development.
• Proven experience in financial and operational management within an educational or similar setting.
• Strong knowledge of budgeting, HR processes, payroll, and compliance requirements.
• Excellent organisational, analytical, and communication skills.
• High level of IT literacy (MS Office, finance systems, MIS).
• Strong understanding of safeguarding, health & safety, and data protection legislation.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work independently.
• Flexible approach with willingness to work additional hours when required.

Location: Central London

Salary: £250 paid via an Umbrella

Contract: 1 month contract

Working hours: Full‑time, 40 hours per week

Working pattern: On‑site

This vacancy is being actively shortlisted, so early applications are encouraged.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds.