Federation Business Manager (Riverside Federation (Etchingham & Bodiam CE Primary Schools)

Hours of work: 12 per week.

Working pattern: Part-time.

Closing date: Wednesday 8 July 2026, 11:55am.

Interview date: w/c 13 July 2026.

For more information and to apply for the above post, please contact:

Church of England Primary School

Robertsbridge

TN32 5UH

Phone: 01580 830 342

Email: [email protected]

Website: The Riverside Federation - Home.

How to Apply:

To express your interest or request an application pack, please contact the Bodiam school office at [email protected] or by telephone 01580 830342.

The Riverside Federation (Etchingham & Bodiam CE Primary schools) is seeking an experienced and highly organised Federation Business Manager to join our friendly and forward-thinking team on a part-time, job-share basis, from 1st September, 2026.

This is a key strategic and operational role, working closely with the Executive Headteacher and governors to ensure the smooth and effective running of business functions across our two small, successful village schools.

The successful candidate will play a vital role in supporting leaders and staff by delivering high-quality financial management, HR processes, compliance, and operational systems - enabling a strong focus on teaching and learning.

Our Federation Ethos:

At the heart of our federation is a strong commitment to working collaboratively, supporting one another, and ensuring the very best outcomes for every child. As two small rural Church of England schools, we value our close-knit communities, nurturing environments, and shared sense of purpose. We are proud of our inclusive, child-centred approach and our focus on high-quality teaching, supported by efficient and effective systems. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the life of our schools, working alongside a dedicated and supportive team who are committed to continuous improvement and making a difference.

Key Responsibilities:

Alongside your job-share colleague, you will:

• Lead and oversee financial management, including budgeting, monitoring, and reporting
• Ensure robust systems for procurement, contracts, and value for money
• Coordinate HR administration and payroll processes
• Support compliance with data protection, health & safety, and statutory requirements
• Oversee premises management and compliance schedules
• Provide high-quality reports and advice to senior leaders and governors

What We Are Looking For:

We are looking for someone who:

• Has proven experience in financial management and operational leadership
• Is highly organised, with strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Has knowledge of compliance requirements including GDPR and health & safety
• Works collaboratively and is committed to continuous improvement
• Demonstrates discretion, integrity, and a child-centred approach
• Experience in a school or local authority setting is desirable but not essential.

Working Arrangements

• 12 hours per week on a flexible, agreed pattern, as part of a job-share arrangement with planned overlap to support collaboration and continuity
• Time split across both schools, with some flexibility for remote working by agreement
• Occasional evening meetings may be required (with time off in lieu or payment)

Why Join Us?

• Work in a supportive and collaborative federation
• Opportunity to make a real difference to the effectiveness of small rural schools
• Flexible working arrangements
• A rewarding role within a values-driven Church school community

This post is covered by the Childcare Disqualification Regulations 2018.

The school will need to ensure that they are not knowingly employing a person who is disqualified under the 2018 Regulations in connection with relevant childcare provision. Accordingly, the successful candidate will be required to demonstrate to the school, by completing a self-declaration form as part of the pre-employment checks process, that they have not been disqualified under the 2018 Regulations.

If the preferred candidate is found to be disqualified under the 2018 Regulations, the offer of employment will be subject to the application by the preferred candidate to Ofsted for a waiver and the receipt of a waiver from Ofsted.

Additional Information

This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All staff will be expected to hold or be willing to obtain Enhanced DBS check or Enhanced check for Regulated Activity with the Disclosure & Barring Services (previously the Criminal Records Bureau). For further information about what is required in this process please go to https://www.gov.uk/dbs-check-applicant-criminal-record.

All school based staff have the responsibility for promoting the safeguarding and welfare of children. All school staff should be aware of the school’s Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy and work in accordance with this document at all times.