Location: Great Missenden
Overview
We are looking for an enthusiastic and committed Finance and Operations Manager to join our school. We are seeking to recruit an inspiring and committed individual to work with a fantastic and caring team of staff who put our children at the centre of what they do.
Salary Type: Competitive and dependent upon experience
Salary details: Competitive and dependent upon experience
Contract type: Permanent
Hours: 40 hours per week, all year round role. Monday to Friday, typically 7.30am – 4.30pm. 25 days holiday
Closing date: 29/08/2025 00:00
Interviews to be held: w/c 15/9/2025
About us
Gateway School is a thriving, vibrant and nurturing independent day school for boys and girls aged 2 to 11, located in the heart of the Chiltern Hills in the village of Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire.
Ages: 2–11
Pupils on roll: Approx. 270
Small class sizes ensuring every child is known and supported
Broad and creative curriculum
Specialist teaching ISI Rated: Excellent in all areas
Part of the Bellevue Education Group – offering high-quality professional development, shared expertise, and a family of schools united by a shared commitment to excellence in education. – offering global collaboration and rich CPD opportunities
Website:
About the role
September term 2025 start date 40 hours per week, all year round role. Monday to Friday, typically 7.30am – 4.30pm. 25 days holiday. Competitive salary and dependent on qualifications and experience.
Overview
- To support the Bellevue Finance Business Partner in managing the finances of the School, including fee invoices, payroll, monthly accounts and budgets.
- To manage the internal aspects of school life including transport and facilities.
- To manage matters of Compliance, including Health & Safety.
- To manage the Groundsman on the overall care of the school buildings and grounds.
- To manage the catering arrangements for Gateway School, including working with the school caterers for both day-to-day planning and hospitality events.
- To manage external lets and the use of the school by outside individuals and groups.
- To assist with any other reasonable request from the Senior Leadership Team and to be available to cover in the Main Office, where needed. This job description should be seen as indicative of the type of responsibilities included within the role and not as a comprehensive list
About you
Qualifications
Educated to degree level in relevant subject
Commercial background
Extensive experience and success in senior management Experience of budget management, financial planning and income generation
Experience of working in a school environment is desirable.
Transport Manager (CPC ) licence is desirable
Skills/Knowledge
Strong Financial Management Skills – budget planning, forecasting, cost control, and resource allocation within an educational setting.
Compliance and Regulatory Knowledge – familiarity with education legislation, health and safety standards, data protection (GDPR), and safeguarding requirements.
Risk Management and Problem-Solving Skills – ability to assess risks, plan contingencies, and resolve operational challenges quickly.
IT and Systems Knowledge – experience with school management information systems (MIS), finance software, and reporting tools.
Facilities and Premises Management – overseeing maintenance, site safety, security, and ensuring the learning environment meets regulatory standards.
Transport Management Expertise – knowledge of school transport operations, route planning, scheduling, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
Stakeholder Relationship Management – ability to engage effectively with parents, governors, local authorities, suppliers, and contractors.
Strategic Thinking and Change Management – supporting long-term planning, improving processes, and delivering on whole-school priorities.