The First 100 Days Programme
Give your new School Business Leader the support they need to succeed from day one.
Starting a role as a School Business Leader (SBL) can be daunting, especially for those new to education or stepping into leadership for the first time. The first few months are critical for success. Without the right support, even the best candidates risk feeling overwhelmed, which can impact retention and school outcomes.
That’s why we created the 1st 100 Days Programme. Designed to align with probation, it gives headteachers, CEOs, and governing boards reassurance that their new appointment is well supported, while giving your new SBL the confidence and tools they need to thrive.
Why the First 100 Days Matter
It’s often said that becoming a School Business Leader is like stepping into a closed shop; experience is expected, but hard to gain without already being in the role. Many talented professionals hesitate to apply because they fear a lack of support, while others step into the post with enthusiasm but find the breadth of responsibilities overwhelming.
The 1st 100 Days package provides a structured induction and mentoring framework that bridges this gap. Instead of relying on patchy handovers, overstretched colleagues, or a narrow finance-only introduction, you can give your SBL comprehensive support across all aspects of their new role.
All services can be customised to your needs, and we work with trusted partners across education when specialist expertise is required.
What’s Included
During the 1st 100 Days, your SBL will receive:
- A self-assessment to identify skills and development needs
- A tailored training plan covering strategic finance, governance, HR, and compliance
- Access to a dedicated helpdesk (8:30–4:30 weekdays) for day-to-day queries
- Regular online mentoring sessions with an experienced SBL professional
- Four on-site visits to progress training, review priorities, and celebrate successes
This package introduces your new leader to the full scope of School Business Management, using ISBL standards and proven practice.
More Than Training, Real Mentorship
Alongside structured training, we provide the reassurance of a “buddy on your side.” This means your SBL has someone experienced to lean on, a mentor who can explain the language of education, share toolkits, and introduce them to the wider professional network.
From budgeting and ICFP, to designing management information systems, to leading support teams and ensuring compliance, the 1st 100 Days Programme is practical, strategic, and rooted in real-world education experience.
Pricing Transparency
We believe in being upfront about costs.
- Primary setting: £800
- Secondary setting: £1,500
When you consider the investment you’ve already made in recruitment, and the risks of losing a great appointment due to lack of support, the 1st 100 Days package represents exceptional value.
The Results
Schools that invest in the 1st 100 Days report stronger governance, more confident SBLs, and smoother operations within just a few months. Headteachers and boards can feel reassured that their new appointment is “a keeper,” while SBLs themselves feel settled, supported, and ready to make an impact.
Don’t leave those crucial first months to chance. Give your new School Business Leader the structured, practical support they need to succeed.