Job Description
This AP is a highly regarded Alternative Provision (AP) located in Burnley, Lancashire (BB10 [Your Postcode]), dedicated to providing tailored and supportive education for young people who thrive outside traditional mainstream settings. We are seeking an experienced and dedicated School Bursar to join our compassionate and dynamic leadership team. This pivotal role, commencing in September 2025, offers a unique opportunity to apply your expertise in finance and operations within an environment that truly makes a difference to vulnerable learners' lives.
We specialise in re-engaging and empowering young people who may have faced challenges in mainstream education, including those with Social, Emotional, Mental Health (SEMH) needs, SEND, or who are disengaged learners. Our focus is on providing a nurturing, flexible, and inclusive curriculum that supports academic progress, personal development, and positive pathways.
The Role: School Bursar (AP) As our School Bursar, you will be a core member of our Senior Leadership Team, responsible for the strategic financial management, operational efficiency, and administrative oversight of our Alternative Provision.
Key Responsibilities:
* Financial Strategy & Management:
o Develop, implement, and monitor robust financial strategies and budgets tailored to the specific funding models of an Alternative Provision (e.g., local authority commissioning, top-up funding, high needs funding).
o Prepare and present detailed financial reports, forecasts, and analyses to the Headteacher and Governing Body/Trustees, ensuring transparency and accountability.
o Oversee all income generation, expenditure, and cash flow, ensuring optimal resource allocation for student support.
o Manage payroll, pensions, VAT, and other statutory financial returns relevant to educational charities/organisations.
o Ensure strict compliance with DfE, ESFA, Charity Commission, and local authority financial regulations and audit requirements for AP settings.
* Operations, Premises & Facilities:
o Oversee the effective management of the AP's premises, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and fit-for-purpose learning environment.
o Manage facilities, maintenance, security, and service contracts, including those for specialist equipment or bespoke learning spaces.
o Ensure robust health and safety compliance, reflecting the unique needs of an AP student cohort.
* Human Resources (Non-Teaching Staff):
o Manage HR administration for all non-teaching staff, including recruitment, contracts, and performance management, considering the specific expertise required in an AP.
* Administration & Compliance:
o Oversee the efficient general administration of the AP, including pupil data, attendance, and record-keeping.
o Ensure data protection (GDPR) and other statutory compliance across all business functions.
o Support the procurement of specialist resources and services for an AP setting.
Skills and Experience Required:
* Significant proven experience in a senior financial or business management role, with demonstrable understanding of the education sector, ideally within an Alternative Provision, Pupil Referral Unit (PRU), or specialist school setting.
* In-depth knowledge of financial regulations, budgeting, and funding streams applicable to Alternative Provisions.
* Strong proficiency in financial management software ([mention specific ones if applicable, e.g., RM Finance, PS Financials, FMS, Sage]) and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
* Experience in premises management, HR administration, and general operations within an educational context.
* Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities, with meticulous attention to detail.
* A strategic leader with the ability to manage complex projects and diverse teams.
* Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, capable of building rapport with staff, trustees, external partners (e.g., LAs, commissioning schools), and the wider AP community.
* A genuine commitment to supporting the unique needs of vulnerable young people and promoting positive outcomes in an Alternative Provision setting.
* A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. (Successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check).
Desirable (but not essential):
* Experience with SEN funding and processes.
* Knowledge of charity accounting practices.
* Familiarity with local Burnley education landscape and commissioning processes.
What We Offer:
* A pivotal and highly rewarding leadership role within a dedicated and impactful Alternative Provision in Burnley.
* A supportive and passionate team committed to our students' success.
* Opportunities for professional development tailored to the AP sector.
* A chance to be part of a unique and flexible educational environment.
How to Apply: To apply for this challenging and fulfilling School Bursar role at our Alternative Provision, please email
Closing Date for Applications: Early applications are encouraged, and we reserve the right to close this advert early if a suitable candidate is found.
This AP is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, and other pre-employment checks. We value diversity and welcome applications from all sections of the community.