For too long, School Business Leaders have been seen primarily as administrators: gatekeepers of budgets, procurement, and policy. But as the education landscape becomes increasingly complex, this perception is rapidly changing. Today, SBLs are stepping firmly into the role of strategic leaders, helping to shape the future of our schools and Trusts.
As we celebrate National School Business Leaders Day on June 6th, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how far the profession has come, and why recognising the value of SBLs has never been more important.
From Back Office to the Boardroom
Traditionally, the SBL role was viewed through a narrow operational lens. Tasks like managing payroll, ordering supplies, or monitoring budgets defined the position. While essential, these duties often placed SBLs in the background, away from the strategic discussions happening in headteacher offices or Trust board meetings.
This outdated view not only undersells the impact of SBLs but also misses a key opportunity. These professionals are uniquely equipped to drive improvement, sustainability, and innovation within schools.
The Strategic Shift
In recent years, the SBL role has undergone a quiet revolution.
Modern SBLs are now central to shaping long-term strategy, supporting leadership teams with data-driven insights, and building financially sustainable models for the future. Their work extends far beyond spreadsheets and compliance. It's about creating the conditions where excellent teaching and learning can thrive.
Ben Watson, SBL at Seaton Valley Federation, reflects on this transformation:
“I’ve been in my role for eight years and have seen the role become increasingly more strategic and integral to the way we run our schools. Far more of my time now is spent on forward planning, forecasting multiple 3–5-year financial scenarios, and considering 5–10-year estates strategies.”
He also highlights the importance of team development in enabling this shift:
“I’ve been fortunate enough to have an excellent team who I’ve supported and developed to take on more of the operational side of things, making my role far more of a SBL than an SBM now.”
From leading capital projects to embedding greener practices, guiding MAT expansion to developing HR strategies that improve retention, SBLs are architects of change. They are increasingly acting as executive leaders within Trusts, with a voice equal to that of senior education leaders.
Why This Matters for the Future of Education
When SBLs are part of the leadership conversation, schools make better decisions. Not just for budgets, but for outcomes. Their presence ensures that strategic planning is grounded in practical feasibility, risk is managed proactively, and resources are deployed where they have the most impact.
Ben describes the role as “both critical and essential” to the success of his school’s leadership team:
“Our SLT recognises the skills and experience that I bring to the table as SBL and wouldn’t make any strategic decisions without involving me. I’m able to evidence the impact I have by trying to be one step ahead of key decisions. For example, when someone decides they need another member of staff, I’ve already factored that into the budget so it’s an easy yes!”
This level of foresight builds trust and frees up teaching staff to focus on their core purpose:
“Things like that help increase the confidence colleagues have in me and my team and allow them to get on with their job which is leading the teaching and learning.”
Recognition and Respect: Why It Matters Now
National School Business Leaders Day, launched in 2021, is about more than celebration - it’s about visibility. SBLs are often the invisible thread that holds schools together. Recognising their work helps shift the perception of the role and inspires others to step into it with pride and purpose.Celebrate Your SBL
To help you mark National School Business Leaders Day on June 6th, we’ve created a free Celebration Pack filled with ideas, templates, and resources to help you show your appreciation - whether that’s a shoutout on social media, a thank-you card from the team, or a display in the staffroom.
🎉 Download your celebration pack and get involved on the day: Access the NSBL Day Celebration Pack
Let’s come together to recognise the dedication, leadership, and impact of SBLs across the UK, and make sure they feel seen, valued, and celebrated.
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