It is recognised that some schools are already heading for a funding crisis. But others are not, and the question is: why not? Could it be that the latter have employed a bursar to advise the senior management team on funding and and related issues?

Bursars bring a wealth of financial experience to schools and can relieve the head teacher of the responsibility of day-to-day financial management. A recent publication from the DfES - The Case for a Bursar - indicates how the bursar lightens the load of the head teacher - an idea that is at the heart of the School Workforce Agreement.

This agreement was signed by all relevant parties, apart from the NUT, which is against parts of it but does not offer constructive alternatives. The majority of their members whom I meet do not fully agree with this policy, and see that there might be a way forward within this agreement that could improve their worklife balance.

Bursars are an asset to a school. They are generally very loyal and conscientious employees, with a wealth of knowledge and experience to offer. Schools should embrace this and that of other school support staff. In return they will find a dedicated workforce who will support them one hundred per cent.

William Simmonds
Chief Executive, National Bursars Association Ltd.
Rugby, Warwickshire