ASCL Business management service

A new consultancy service available to schools for the 2011-12 academic year

For a free initial discussion about the service we offer and how this links to the support you need, please contact consultancy@ascl.org.uk

Rationale
In responding to the current political agenda, schools and colleges are facing new dilemmas that go hand in hand with greater autonomy. Local authority support is changing, school leadership is evolving and there is an increasing need to ensure that business management functions are fit for purpose.

The ASCL service aims
We can provide a range of services, delivered by experienced business management professionals, to support your school and help evaluate appropriate solutions. The ASCL business management consultancy service is independent, provided by individuals who have worked in schools; understand the context of the environment and have experience in evaluating existing provision and potential options.

Bespoke business management consultancies include:

• Strategic financial planning – specific aspect evaluation/full budget review using a range of software tools, benchmarking analysis, assessing implications of SFVS and general ‘health checks’ on financial management processes
• Specific service review – examples of specific areas are:
  • HR provision and support
  • Facilities management
  • Financial management/payroll
  • Office and administrative systems
  • Catering
  • Cleaning
  • Grounds maintenance
  • Clerk to governor support for the governing body
  • Review and update MIS systems
• Business management recruitment – support with the recruitment of a new business management professional or the restructure of existing business management provision to meet the changing needs of the school
• Induction/mentoring/support – for business managers (especially new into post) and other school leaders, regarding business management issues
• Preparing for promotion – guidance on application/interview preparation/succession planning
• Performance management/self evaluation – for all staff or specifically, support staff
• Skills audit – for restructuring or redundancy purposes
• Job evaluation – guidance on establishing a system which is appropriate for the school
• Governor liaison – establishing systems/good practice working with governors
• Policies and procedures – to ensure statutory compliance/acknowledged good practice

Cost
Exact cost will depend on the nature of support required. We seek to minimise the cost by undertaking much of the work off site – however, when visits to the school are essential, expenses will be chargeable.

Rates generally reflect a basic fee of £675 +VAT and expenses for a full day consultancy.

For more information telephone the MAPS team on 0116 299 1122 or email consultancy@ascl.org.uk