School Business Leaders are strong, resilient and adaptable but there are times when we all need support, direction, or just a shoulder to cry on. At SBL Support Hub, we’ve been there.

If you are an SBL at crisis point and don’t know where to turn – pick up the phone. We can help with advice, support and understanding.

If you have a question about anything to do with your role, or you are looking for a mentor, some networking, or a direction, drop us an email.

You are not alone – reach out and you will discover a massive bank of individuals, networks, and organisations, working within our profession and able to provide;

• Crisis support
• Task guidance
• Mentor connection
• Network signposting
• Reassurance
• Support signposting
• Templates, frameworks, training opportunities etc…

Whether you are new to the SBL role, or experienced, whatever your role title, whether you’re a specialist or a generalist, working in maintained school or a multi academy Trust, however challenging your situation…SBL Support Hub is here to help.

Is it free?

Most of the support you will find via SBL Support Hub will be free of charge, however, as SBLs we know that old adage of “you get what you pay for”. If you are looking for an experienced mentor, training, or a specific resource then we will always be clear about the cost, and you will never be under any obligation.

Many of our advocates provide paid services alongside their offer of free support, they will always be upfront if you are requesting something which they will have to charge for, as well as signpost you to alternative providers and free options.

Networking

The biggest resource available to SBLs is the massive network that sits beside them. We’re always here to help. You don’t need to do this on your own. Don’t be an island. Join us to receive and give support in all aspects (and challenges) in the SBL role.

Fill in our questionnaire to tell us a bit about yourself, your role, and confirm your willingness to be part of our network, so that we can signpost your skills to SBLs in your area when they are needed.

Don’t forget that we don’t just want to share the tangible skills (budgeting, procurement, HR, Premises) which are needed in our community. SBLs out there need support with communication, managing the Head, being part of SLT, negotiating pay, joining a trust, navigating challenging conversations, writing reports. Your experience could mean the difference between success, or leaving the profession, for a fellow SBL.

We will keep in touch with a ‘how are you?’ email once a term and you’ll be able to see us communicate via our socials.

A personal message from our Founder – Sally Boaden

In October 2021, I decided that I could no longer stand by and watch talented SBL professionals suffer or even leave our community. What started as a personal declaration led me to create the SBL Support Hub. I’m thrilled that we have now found a way to make it work for you.

Despite the role of School Business Leader being one of the most rewarding jobs I have ever done, it can be isolating and overwhelming in ‘normal times’, and it is becoming increasingly challenging for many.

The SBL Support Hub is a neutral place, here to support you with a number to call if it gets too much and you don’t know where to turn, and be an email away from the answer (or signposts) to that question or situation that is causing you unreasonable stress.

My amazing network and I are all determined to support the voice of the SBL with guidance, training, networking and working to share the highs and the lows of a role we love.

If you need support, or feel you can help us support other SBLs in your area, please do get in touch.

Sally

t: 0330 223 7302
e: