Business Managers Network provides Learning and Support in Oldham

Suzanne Caffery, Operations Manager at Oasis Academy Clarksfield, chairs the Oldham Primary School Business Managers Network. 

This great initiative brings together Business Managers from across the region, with 29 attendees at the last meeting. Together this group help each other find solutions to common problems, invite guest speakers to upskill the group or share areas of interest and build relationships to support each other.

When people think about Learning & Development opportunities they usually think of traditional courses and training sessions but often real learning takes place when people support each other and work through common challenges together. We are proud of Suzanne Caffery, our Operations Manager at Oasis Academy Clarksfield, for the leading role she plays in chairing the Oldham Primary School Business Managers Network.

‘Being a Business Manager can be a solitary job as you are the only one in the school and this network helps greatly’

Suzanne shares her experience with us here.

How long have you been part of the Network?

"I became Chair of the Oldham Primary School Business Managers Networking Group at the beginning of last year and have facilitated four meetings, one per term, ever since. I also offered the use of our new training facility at Oasis Academy Clarksfield to host face to face meetings providing a better forum for collaboration and discussion."

What is the purpose of the Network?

"The primary aim of the network meetings is to bring School Business Managers from across Oldham and local Oasis schools together for networking, information sharing and problem-solving purposes. 

Why is the Network so necessary?

"The role of the School Business Manager is unique and challenging and often there is a lack of understanding around the complexity of the role within a school. Training is very limited and new Business Managers are often left to acquire knowledge of processes themselves. The role is often very isolated with nobody to consult with and information is not readily available.

The Network meetings are proving to be an invaluable part in providing a solution to addressing some of the challenges faced."

How do the Network meetings run?

"I develop an agenda built up around current and relevant topics and issues surrounding the role. I request items for the agenda in advance of the meetings to ensure the meetings are a platform for problem solving. I have recently also invited speakers to attend to talk about subjects that have been a point of discussion during meetings.

The first half hour of each meeting is allocated to a networking opportunity as this has also proven to be invaluable. Business Managers are able to relate to one and other and chat informally to solve any issues they may be experiencing. There is also a further opportunity for networking after the formal agenda items are completed.

The meetings have grown in popularity and there were 29 attendees present at the last meeting. It was noted at the last meeting that this is attributed to the structured agenda and the speakers invited."

Is there a cost involved in running the Network?

As I am keen to offer this as a free event, I took the initiative to seek companies to sponsor the event. This was initially to provide refreshments, however this has grown as companies are keen to impress and we were provided with a full buffet lunch from the last sponsors! In return they are able to advertise their company by distributing flyers at the meeting.

What feedback have you received from those attending the Network?

Sarra from Greenfield Primary shared, ‘Just wanted to touch base and say how much I (and I am sure other Business Managers) appreciate you facilitating and organising the School Business Managers meetings as they are an invaluable source of information and networking opportunity, particularly as the role can be quite isolated. I often find myself attending, especially with all the relevant guest speakers from different and relevant organisations. Thank you.' 

Nikki from South Failsworth Primary said, ‘As a Business Manager who was new to Oldham Council I spent a lot of time trying to work things out on my own as I started the first day of the Covid outbreak. I have now attended the last 2 meetings and they are really helpful and informative. It gives me a chance to share ideas, work on collaborative purchasing and meet people, that I can then contact to ask for advice and also give advice to new Business Managers. Being a Business Manager can be a solitary job as you are the only one in the school and this network helps me greatly.’