Anna O’Beirne has recently completed her Schools Business Professional (SBP) Level 4 Apprenticeship at The Ruth Gorse Academy, supported by Heart of England Training (HOET). This qualification equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a School Business Manager role, covering various operational areas critical to the success of educational institutions.

The Motivation Behind Choosing the Schools Business Professional Apprenticeship

Anna’s motivation for enrolling in the Schools Business Professional Level 4 Apprenticeship stemmed from her aspiration to transition into a School Business Manager position. She sought a comprehensive qualification that would prepare her for the multifaceted responsibilities of the role, which include financial management, human resources, and strategic planning within a school setting.

Training highlights from Heart of England Training

Reflecting on her experience with HOET, Anna expressed her appreciation for the quality of training she received. She found the programme engaging and beneficial, particularly valuing the focus on legislation that underpins educational policies and guidelines. “The assignment topics were thought-provoking and encouraged my independent research into many interesting areas,” Anna noted, highlighting how this exploration strengthened her confidence in understanding the operational framework of schools.

Anna also emphasised the value of the day courses, which provided excellent networking opportunities with fellow School Business Managers. “Gaining exposure to alternative ways of doing things was particularly enlightening,” she stated, underscoring the importance of collaboration in the field.

The Impact of the Apprenticeship on Her Role and the School Community

The skills and knowledge Anna acquired during her apprenticeship have had a significant impact on her professional capabilities. “I feel I have increased my knowledge significantly in many different operational areas,” she explained. This growth has enhanced her confidence in serving as a point of advice for school leadership.

Anna also found the final assessment to be a practical exercise that sharpened her presentation skills, crucial for governance and inspection meetings. “It enabled me to test how much my knowledge had developed during the course,” she added, indicating that the apprenticeship was instrumental in her professional growth.

Advice for Aspiring Apprentices

When asked if she would recommend pursuing an apprenticeship with HOET, Anna was unequivocal: “I would definitely recommend a course with HOET, especially for education staff who need flexibility.” The up-to-date software used in the programme made it easier for her to maintain a regular log of off-the-job learning, which is vital for balancing the demands of a school environment.

For those considering or currently engaged in the SBP Level 4 or any apprenticeship, Anna advises maintaining a consistent weekly schedule for off-the-job learning. “Ask your manager for as much exposure as possible to the remits within the course, even if this is just around sitting in on meetings,” she suggested. Understanding the school’s operations holistically is essential, even for those whose roles may not directly involve every area covered in the course.

Looking Ahead: Anna’s Next Steps

Excitingly, Anna has secured a promotion to the role of School Business Manager. She plans to leverage the knowledge and skills gained from her apprenticeship and prior experience to meet the challenges of her new position. This progression highlights the transformative potential of the Schools Business Professional Apprenticeship, not only for individual careers but also for the schools and pupils they serve.

Anna O’Beirne’s successful completion of the Schools Business Professional Level 4 Apprenticeship exemplifies the benefits of targeted training and professional development in the educational sector. With the support of Heart of England Training, Anna is now well-equipped to take on her new role, contributing positively to her school community.

Want to take the next steps?

Is your School looking for an apprentice? Contact us to find out more or take a look at our Apprenticeship Information for Employers.

We also offer a wide variety of courses for Schools across a broad range of sectors.