SHREWSBURY HOUSE SCHOOL FOUNDED 1865

Brief for the position of DIRECTOR OF FINANCE AND OPERATIONS House School Candidate Brief n Director of Finance and Operations, Shrewsbury House School shrewsburyhouse.net

CONTENTS Background 3 The Role 7 The Person 10 How to Apply 11

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BACKGROUND

Shrewsbury House School Trust operates three In addition to the wide range of first-class facilities across the independent schools that seek to provide the best three school sites, the Trust also owns a large, dedicated sports possible day school education for children aged ground located on Almshouse Lane in nearby Chessington. between 3 and 13. Across all three schools, the Trust aims to provide both an Established in 1865, Shrewsbury House School is one of outstanding academic and broad education, to draw out pupils’ ’s oldest boys’ preparatory schools. It currently educates abilities and academic potential, awaken and develop wider 340 boys aged 7 to 13 and has a reputation for excellence in all interests in life and motivate pupils for a successful future. areas. The school aims to educate the whole child by providing The ethos and success of the schools have been achieved by unequalled opportunities and support for the ongoing maintaining a consistently low pupil-to-teacher ratio and development of academic, cultural, aesthetic, moral, sporting employing committed and high-quality staff, ensuring that and practical dimensions of the boys’ lives. all pupils are educated to a consistently high standard. The three schools are administered as a charitable trust by a single Shrewsbury House Pre-Prep School joined the Trust in 2009 governing body. and educates boys and girls aged 3 to 7. Based in Esher, the school has capacity for 150 pupils and aims to foster the core The Trust is administered by a Board of Governors whose values of teamwork, resilience, aspiration, care and kindness. members are also Directors of the Company or ‘Trustees’. The Trustees attend relevant sub-committee meetings regularly and The Rowans is a co-educational school for children aged 3 to 7 meet as a full board once a term. The Board aims to recruit based in Wimbledon. The school joined the Trust in 2017 and Trustees who have a range of specialist skills, to maintain a currently has over 120 pupils on roll. At The Rowans, a growth strong balance of expertise. Current members include experts mindset is promoted to encourage children to relish challenges, in education, financial management, law, property development embrace mistakes, respond to feedback and take inspiration and estates, risk and insurance. from others. For more information on the Shrewsbury House School Trust, please visit: Shrewsbury House School Trust.

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Shrewsbury House School Academic Shrewsbury House School is an exceptional day school for boys A broad-based, eclectic and progressive curriculum allows with a superb academic record, committed staff, small class sizes boys to hone their skills in myriad subject areas while and dedicated pastoral care. The school aims for boys to develop developing lifelong learning habits. Boys develop a healthy their potential to the maximum; expectations are high, and every world view, curiosity and impressive critical thinking, while boy is encouraged to ‘have a go’ across the broad curriculum. having fun in and out of the classroom. The School values are: Many teachers are subject specialists and foster enthusiasm n Respect n Integrity n Aspiration and innovation, helping boys to be as proud of individual n Perseverance n Compassion efforts as well as teamwork, leadership and relationship skills. Shrewsbury House boys emerge at age 13 as intellectually curious Key subjects, such as English, Mathematics and Science, remain young men who have had numerous opportunities to reach their integral but these are enhanced by other subjects including full potential and shine. The school has a national reputation for Classics, Reasoning, Theology, Philosophy and Computing, sending boys to a range of the country’s leading day and boarding Coding and Robotics. In addition, project-based learning is schools (including Brighton, Dulwich, Eton, Harrow, KCS a bespoke and dynamic aspect to the curriculum, providing Wimbledon, Radley, St Paul’s, Tonbridge and Westminster). a pupil-centred teaching approach that can help boys acquire a deeper knowledge through active exploration of real-world Facilities challenges and problems. The school site is set in a beautiful leafy area of in Opportunities are provided for the more able to accelerate . The main school house dates back to Victorian times and reach their potential, including bands of classes that but facilities are modern and well-equipped, providing the operate at a faster pace. Additionally, the Learning Support perfect learning environment for small classes. There is a well- department works closely with staff and parents to provide stocked and welcoming library, two fully equipped science reasonable adjustment and support for all pupils including laboratories and an additional junior laboratory. Creative arts in-class support. are well supported through a high-tech design technology In Years 7 and 8, boys follow one of two exam routes: room, and coding and robotics are encouraged through Lego Common Entrance or Scholarship. The final two years are Mindstorm education sets. about academic and curriculum extension and acceleration, Shrewsbury House remains one of few stand-alone prep allowing boys to polish skills and take on leadership schools with an International Rugby Board certified all-weather opportunities. The best possible route for each child is surface, suitable for rugby, cricket and football. Additionally, identified, allowing them to enjoy themselves, be stretched the large, dedicated off-site sports ground is regarded as one of academically and thrive, achieving the best results of which the premier grass facilities among prep schools in Surrey and they are capable. Southwest London. On site, there is a heated swimming pool with a retractable roof and a full-sized sports hall equipped with four cricket nets and a full-size basketball court. odgersberndtson.com 04 Candidate Brief n Director of Finance and Operations, Shrewsbury House School shrewsburyhouse.net

Pastoral Care Shrewsbury House Pre-Preparatory School The well-being and care of the boys is central to everything Founded in 1912 as Milbourne Lodge Junior School, that is done at Shrewsbury House. A nurturing environment Shrewsbury House Pre-Preparatory School is a wonderful, is provided, allowing a focus on the whole child. Every boy friendly, nurturing and caring environment for pupils. has his own Form Tutor who oversees their general well-being The school aims to develop a genuine love for learning in and progress, while a Head of Year maintains an overview on every child and for them to aspire to progress as far as possible. all boys in a year group. In addition, each boy belongs to one The children follow EYFS and Key Stage 1, and the curriculum of four Houses and senior boys are involved in the leadership is designed to allow every child to explore, to think and to and organisation of the Houses. Shrewsbury House also has question for themselves. a School Council, elected annually, consisting of three boys Pastoral care is exceptional and small class sizes help to provide from each year group plus the Head Boy and Deputy Head a calm environment where each child is known and supported. Boys. The School Council meets at least once each half term A wide range of extra-curricular clubs and activities are offered to discuss a variety of matters relating to school life and is an including cookery, engineering, gardening, chess, tennis and important conduit for pupil voice. choir. A wraparound childcare option is also offered at both Co-curricular ends of the day to provide support for families. The school is based around an original Victorian building In addition to the broad opportunities provided in the with a purpose-built extension, providing light-filled and curriculum for creativity, drama, music and sports, Shrewsbury well-equipped classrooms. The facilities are the envy of many, House offers an extensive choice of after-school clubs and including a sports hall, outdoor heated swimming pool activities. Clubs include Building Imagination, Fencing, Judo, and sports field. There is also significant space for children Shooting and Theatre Club. Boys will also experience a rich to explore and play including gardens, Forest School and choice of outings, residential trips and tours. These include a a Reception Explore Zone. The majority of pupils go on to full week residential trip from Year 5 upwards, a pre-season Shrewsbury House, and other pupils go on to a range of football tour to Spain for Years 6, 7 and 8. leading prep schools. For more information on Shrewsbury House School, please For more information on Shrewsbury House Pre-Preparatory visit: Shrewsbury House School School, please visit: Shrewsbury House Pre-Preparatory School

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The Rowans School The Rowans School opened in 1936 and prides itself on ensuring a nurturing start to school life by providing a broad and balanced curriculum within a stimulating, creative, happy, caring and respectful environment. Following EYFS and Key Stage One, the curriculum is designed to build strong and secure academic foundation and enhance every child’s natural curiosity. Teaching remains structured whilst recognising that children learn best through play and discovery. A nurturing, calm and gentle atmosphere is fostered within The Rowans and children are guided to follow the School’s ‘Golden Rules’ which promote a positive approach to managing behaviour. Sport, drama and music are integral to the curriculum, and a wide range of extra-curricular activities such as dance, coding, yoga and arts and crafts are offered to pupils. The school is situated in a large house set in its own grounds and gardens on the edge of Wimbledon Common. Classrooms are modern and bright, but it is the beautiful grounds that stand out as a central part of each child’s time at The Rowans. There are a wealth of opportunities to enjoy the outdoor play areas, including a large tipi that is regularly used as an outdoor learning space. In 2018, the school also opened its refurbished sports court. In addition to many pupils transitioning to Shrewsbury House, pupils also go to King’s College Junior School, Putney High School, GDST, St Paul’s Junior School and Wimbledon High School, GDST. For more information on The Rowans School, please visit: The Rowans School

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THE ROLE

Job Title: Director of Finance & Operations (DFO)

Primary Purpose: Key Tasks and Responsibilities The DFO has overall accountability for operational Vision and Strategy services across the Trust which includes Finance, Facilities, n Work with the Board of Governors and the Executive Head Human Resources, IT and achieves this through delegated for the development and delivery of the Trust’s strategic plans, responsibility to a team of direct reports. Catering and cleaning which reflects and builds on the Trust’s values. are outsourced services and the DFO is responsible for n ensuring effective service delivery across both areas through Provide the role of ‘strategic business partner’ to the Executive the Head of Trust Facilities. As Clerk to the Governors, the Head through a relationship based upon support, trust and DFO is responsible for ensuring the governance of the Trust is appropriate challenge. fulfilled and managed through Committees and Full Governor n Ensure the Trust’s strategic development plan is underpinned Board meetings. by robust financial and business planning. n Build a strong business foundation to provide the financial Reporting to: resources to fulfil the plans and aspirations of the Trust. The Executive Head is the direct line manager for the DFO role and there is a dotted line management to the Chair of Leadership and Management Governors as Clerk to the Governors. n Provide effective leadership to the wider support staff team. n Embed a culture and ethos of service excellence in pursuit of Line Management Responsibilities: the Trust’s aims, aspirations and ambitions. The DFO will directly line manage the Financial Controller, n Ensure all team members are supported, valued and the Head of Trust Facilities, the Head of Trust Human constructively challenged to deliver their services in an Resources and the Head of Trust IT. The DFO will also oversee environment which sets the highest professional standards. the contractual relationships with Catering and Cleaning n Develop and build trusting working relationships with outsourced providers. colleagues across the Trust.

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Financial Management n Oversee capital developments including master planning, n Ensure the Trust’s values are embedded and lived by staff in n Work with the Financial Controller to ensure robust systems the design and specification for new buildings and ensure the Trust. of financial control, benchmarks and regular and accurate the delivery of all capital projects to agreed cost, time and n With the Head of Trust HR, ensure that appropriate pay reporting are in place. quality parameters. and benefit strategies are agreed with the Remuneration n n With appropriate professional input, advise on general Liaise with local authorities over planning and transport Committee and implemented in a timely fashion. issues to ensure the Trust is effectively represented. financial policy, investments, taxation, and the requirements IT and Network Systems and implications of charitable status. n Oversee the effective running of the transport fleet. n Monitor and evaluate the success of the Trust’s IT and n n Keep the Trust’s Risk Register, including mitigation, updated. Oversee the provision of major services and suppliers network systems, infrastructure and technical services to to ensure best value, including periodic re-tendering of n Work with senior staff to ensure the Trust’s critical incident support the curriculum, ensuring a high-quality service is contracts and reappointment of suppliers. planning procedures are fit for purpose and reflect sector maintained in each area. n best-practice. Work with the Governors and Executive Head to identify and n To oversee the work of the Head of IT to ensure that the develop meaningful and sustainable non-fee income streams Trust’s IT system meets educational and administrative needs Human Resources to help fund capital developments and other advancements. in a high quality, reliable, secure, user friendly way which is n Work with the Head of Trust Human Resources to ensure cost effective and in a lawful manner. Facilities Management compliance with all relevant aspects of employment law, n To chair and convene regular IT strategic meetings to plan the n including the Single Central Register of appointments, safer Work with the Head of Trust Facilities to ensure the high- Trust’s strategy and vision for future development, ensuring recruitment, performance development and management, quality maintenance, refurbishment and development of detailed proposals are costed and budgeted. existing buildings, grounds and facilities. pay and reward. n To manage and update the Critical Incident Plan (CIMP) and n Play a leading role in the recruitment of all non-teaching staff ensure emergency procedures are current. across the Trust.

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External Engagement School Trust n To foster and develop positive links with the local community n Support the aims and core values of the Trust and adhere to to demonstrate public benefit, including key external all policies and procedures. stakeholders, other education providers and local businesses. n To attend regularly and contribute to all necessary assemblies, n To present the Trust’s values, aims, ethos and achievements staff meetings, etc. and to attend parents’ evenings and major to existing and prospective parents, business partners and the school events when required. wider community. n To develop and maintain professional, productive n Manage the regular and timely collection of fee-income and relationships with all staff members. implement appropriate strategies to both mitigate and recover n To be aware of equality, diversity and inclusion to bad debt. demonstrate these principles in all aspects of work. n Engage with existing and prospective parents by attending n To understand the Trust’s health and safety policy and to key Trust events held throughout the year. work within its guidelines. n To be aware of your responsibility for promoting and Relationship to Board of Governors safeguarding the wellbeing of young persons during the n Be responsible as Clerk to the Governors. course of your duties. n Prepare termly reports for the Governors board and n Any other reasonable project or duty assigned by your committee meetings. Executive Head and/or the Chair of Governors. n Provide an overview on budgetary management and projects Whilst every effort has been made to explain the main duties completed and in progress. and responsibilities of the post, employees will be expected to n Keep Governors updated on legislative and statutory changes. comply with any reasonable request from the Executive Head n Maintain Governors records. to undertake work of a similar level that is not specified in this n Model and project salaries and associated employment costs. job description.

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THE PERSON n Commitment to the safeguarding and wellbeing of children n Able to build strong and trusting relationships at all levels and young people as the highest priority. across the Trust. n Proven experience of financial and operational leadership n A leader and team player who is a natural motivator, clear and management gained at executive level in a commercial, thinker, adaptable, innovative, diplomatic, articulate, resilient. educational or wider related non-profit setting. n Understand the challenges and rhythms of working in n Successful track record of line managing multi-disciplinary an education environment supported by a small but well teams. qualified, professional support staff team. n Able to demonstrate first-class communication and people n Friendly, empathetic and approachable with a good sense of management skills. humour. n Strong financial acumen and the ability to develop long term n Understand the challenges the independent school sector business plans. faces now and in the future. n Inspire confidence among Governors as well as teaching and n Understand the challenges of fast-moving technological support staff. changes in an educational setting. n Comfortable moving between high level strategy and n Computer literate including all Microsoft Office Applications. operational delivery. n Close attention to detail and accuracy. n Able to resolve conflicts in a sensitive manner; n Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines. n Academically strong; emotionally intelligent and possess n Ability to work in a confidential and professional manner. intellectual rigour.

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HOW TO APPLY

Shrewsbury House School Trust has engaged the services of Odgers Berndtson to assist with the recruitment of the next Director of Finance and Operations.

The closing date for applications: 09.00 GMT on All applications will receive an automated response. Wednesday 8 September. For an initial discussion, please contact: Initial interviews with Odgers Berndtson will take place during Peter Lawrence: +44 (0) 207 529 3055 weeks commencing 13 & 20 September. Shortlist interviews [email protected] with the Selection Committee will take place on Thursday Constance Moss: +44 (0) 207 529 1109 30 September or Friday 1 October. Candidates invited to [email protected] the final stage will be invited to have a full briefing visit to the School on 5, 6 or 7 October and final interviews will take Personal data place on 11, 14 or 15 October. In line with GDPR, we ask that you do NOT send us any In order to apply, please submit a CV along with a covering information that can identify children or any of your Sensitive letter which sets out your interest in the role and encapsulates Personal Data (racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, the aspects of your experience relevant to the required criteria. religious or philosophical beliefs, trade union membership, Please include current salary details and the names and addresses data concerning health or sex life and sexual orientation, of three referees. Referees will not be approached until the final genetic and/or biometric data) in your CV and stages and not without prior permission from candidates. application documentation. Following this notice, any inclusion of your Sensitive Personal The preferred method of application is online at: Data in your CV/application documentation www.odgers.com/83033 Shrewsbury House School is will be understood by us as your expressed committed to safeguarding and consent to process this information going promoting the welfare of children, and forward. Please also remember to not mention applicants must be willing to undergo anyone’s information or details (e.g. referees) child protection screening appropriate who have not previously agreed to their to the post, including checks with past inclusion. employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

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