Best Practice Network has been confirmed as one of just three ILM approved national providers of the new Level 4 Diploma for School Business Management.

The programme, accredited by ILM, is aimed at existing and aspiring school business managers who want to enhance their leadership, management and administrative skills through a professional qualification.

Candidates will complete the diploma in 12 months. The programme is made up of three mandatory units – leading support services in a school, finance and procurement. Candidates must also complete one of three optional units: HR management, supporting school infrastructure management and marketing.

The programme will be delivered through a blended approach that includes three days of face-to-face sessions with a specialist facilitator and online learning.

Best Practice Network is a national provider of professional qualifications, training and support for the education sector which works in partnership with teaching school alliances and academy trusts across the country to deliver nationally recognised leadership development programmes and qualifications.

“We’re delighted to be offering the new diploma,” said Dean Boyce, Director at Best Practice Network. “It will give candidates the skills to make a major contribution to their schools and provide them with a firm foundation for their future professional development.”

He added: “Best Practice Network’s focus is on working in partnership with teaching school alliances to deliver our programmes locally. In this way we get the expertise and up to date experience of some of the very best business management practitioners in the country, delivered locally and online in a very cost effective way, with skilled ‘back office’ support including recruitment, facilitator support and online learning systems provided by the Best Practice Network team.”

Marcus David, Business Development Manager at ILM, said: “The commitment of Best Practice Network to producing managers who are equipped with the skills they need to add value to schools across the UK is first-class. We’re delighted to be partnering with the team on what is an extremely effective programme, focused on addressing a real need in the education sector.”

Applications for an autumn 2018 start are now open. The full cost of the programme including assessment and certification is £1,475 +VAT.