Education Sector
HR Training for School Business Managers (SBMs)

Overview
This course is designed for School Business Managers, Office Managers or other leaders who oversee day-to-day HR in schools.
Through six focused modules, it addresses the full employee lifecycle — from recruitment and induction to absence management, disciplinary and grievance procedures, safer recruitment and flexible working.
Each session is underpinned by employment law and education-specific guidance, giving both the legal framework and the practical strategies to apply it in real school settings. Whether new to HR or looking to strengthen expertise, the course provides the tools to manage staff confidently, support leaders effectively and create a positive, compliant school culture.
At Origin People & Culture, we believe training should reflect each organisation’s unique culture, values and goals. Therefore the outline below is a guide to the core content — but we’ll always take time to understand your needs and adapt the programme so it’s relevant, practical and aligned to your context and needs.
Six practical modules:
- Employment Law Essentials
- Managing Absence & Supporting Wellbeing
- Probation and Performance Management
- Disciplinary and Grievance
- Flexible Working and Employment Rights
- Safer Recruitment and Staff Conduct
Outcomes
Delegates will:
- Gain a strong foundation in HR policies, processes and legislation, underpinned by employment law.
- Develop greater confidence in managing people and sensitive issues with an emphasis on early intervention
- Strengthen compliance and documentation, ensuring consistency across schools and MATs.
- Provide better support for headteachers and leadership teams, acting as a trusted HR partner.
- Promote staff wellbeing, development and retention, building a positive and sustainable school culture.
- Reduce the level of day-to-day intervention required from central HR teams, by handling common issues effectively at school level.
Interested in this course?
For more information speak to us on: 0845 838 2607 | or email: contact@originpeople.co.uk or enquire below.
Enquiry Form
Ready to book training for your team or find out more about our courses? Whether it’s a one-off session or part of a wider development programme, we’ll get back to you promptly to confirm availability and next steps.
“I had the pleasure of working closely with Kay Taylor, Group Director of HR and People Development, for over five years during my time as Executive Principal of Stockton Riverside College and Bede Sixth Form. I also worked with Liz Elwell, then Group Head of HR, for over three years.
Kay and Liz bring a wealth of experience, integrity, and insight to their work. I found them both to be highly professional, solutions-focused, and deeply committed to doing what’s right for both the organisation and its people. Both Kay and Liz embodied honesty, fairness, and courage—qualities that made them trusted voices in navigating complex HR challenges.
Now that I’m retired, I’m pleased to offer this recommendation as they embark on their consultancy journey. Any organisation would benefit from their calm, practical approach and their ability to deliver results in challenging environments.”
“Liz brought clarity and direction to a complex and high-stakes project. Her ability to balance research and academia with practical, employer-focused outputs meant we delivered a robust strategic workforce planning framework and toolkit on time and within budget. The final product not only meets our charitable objectives but also offers real commercial potential. Liz’s project management, insight, and collaborative style made her an invaluable partner throughout. On a personal note, Liz was a pleasure to work with, her communication at all levels was clear and concise and she forged great working relationship with peers and stakeholders alike – I would have no hesitation in recommending Liz”
“Liz brought clarity and structure at a critical stage in our journey. From developing our people systems and talent pool to shaping our workforce plans and organisational goals, her support has been invaluable. Pragmatic and strategic, with strong commercial insight and acumen, she played a critical role in aligning our people strategy with our business goals.”
‘‘Honest, fair and courageous encapsulate Kay’s integrity and her ability to offer clear solutions to complex HR problems large organisations like ours faced. Not afraid to roll her sleeves up and do what is best for the organisation and its people.’’