Knowledge hub

This isn’t about the long-running debate over using “competitive” in salary adverts. Instead, it’s a look at another subtle but surprisingly common misstep in the education sector.

When it comes to attracting top talent into senior support roles - Finance, HR, and School Business Management (SBM) - salary still matters. Naturally, every candidate I speak to considers pay. But here’s the shift: it’s no longer the only deciding factor.

There’s endless advice on LinkedIn about the “right” length for a CV. Honestly? Length isn’t the point.

Good education sector candidates are always hard to come by. In today’s market, those actively looking for roles often have multiple options on the table. That’s why your job specification matters, it’s your first impression, and you rarely get a second chance.

Interviews aren’t just about proving your skills. In school support and leadership roles, whether in Finance, HR, Operations, or as a School Business Manager,  it’s often your mindset and approach that sets you apart.

While the summer break can sometimes offer a rare window for reflection, I know for many HR and recruitment teams, it’s anything but quiet. Planning for the year ahead doesn’t stop just because school is out - in fact, this period can be one of the most valuable times to think strategically about your workforce.