Supporting a DSBM applicant?

Read our information for headteachers and chairs of governors.

Looking to recruit a school business manager?

Use our resources to help you attract, retain and develop the right school business manager for your school.

DSBM programme details

The Diploma of School Business Management (DSBM) comprises five phases broken down into nine modules, each phase will take approximately 10–12 weeks. There is a time commitment of approximately 6–12 hours per week to complete the programme.

Learning methods involved in completing the modules are:

one two-day residential and four single day face-to-face workshops
school-based projects
online seminars with expert facilitators
online assessed modules
a presentation
online and wider programme reading
contributions to the online networking environment – a protected area allowing you to debate issues and learn from other SBMs

Programme element	Details
Phase 1: online induction	During phase 1 you will be introduced to various study and research skills, and the online environment that you will be using throughout DSBM. This phase involves completion of an online module.
Phase 2: leading and managing self and others	Phase 2 introduces the concept of management as a conscious activity requiring a particular set of skills for success. This phase involves a two-day residential workshop and completion of three assessed work-based projects. Modules covered in this phase are: personal effectiveness leading and managing teams stakeholder engagement
Phase 3: leading and managing the business of schools	Phase 3 enables you to enhance your contribution to the strategic direction of your school, and the management of projects and initiatives. This phase involves two one-day workshops and completion of three assessed work-based projects. Modules covered in this phase are: thinking about strategy in schools leading and managing the strategic development of the school planning strategic initiatives in schools
Phase 4: leading and managing school improvement	Phase 4 enables you to focus on your role as a strategic manager and leader. It brings together phases 2 and 3 and prepares you for progression to the Advanced Diploma in School Business Management (ADSBM). This phase involves two one-day workshops and completion of three assessed work-based projects. Modules covered in this phase are: understanding school improvement leading and managing change improving efficiency
Phase 5: programme reflection and completion	Phase 5 requires you to reflect on your learning from the programme and your future development plans. You will also prepare a structured presentation and respond to oral questions about your learning. This phase will include an online assessment and a structured presentation via telephone or web conference.

Further details about the DSBM module content

Details of the DSBM cancellation policy