Mark Reed was appointed director of business and finance at Academy@Worden secondary school, in Leyland, Lancashire, in 2014, when he was handed a very long “to achieve” list. The school was at risk of closure, had only 42 per cent occupancy, a poor reputation and was in a perilous budgetary position. It now enjoys full occupancy and has won the local school of the year award four times.
Academy@Worden described the challenges of a falling roll and balancing budgets as its Everest, as it had to grapple with retrospective funding while its intake increased. But Mr Reed has restructured the financial system while at the same time overseeing health and safety, and line-managing a growing team of teaching assistants and clerical, cleaning and kitchen staff.
Accountants working with the school said they were “amazed” at how well he ensures the system runs smoothly, while the headteacher commented: “Mark gives of his time and advice freely, and has empowered us, as a small primary school, to have a bold vision for our children and their learning.”
His achievements have included £344,000 in contract savings over five years, securing six grants totalling £346,000 and six capital projects totalling £1.8 million. The academy has been provided with a new roof, extended dining room, a cost-effective heating system and improved teaching areas. Mr Reed also finds time to coordinate planning of the academy’s part in the Leyland Festival and the Health Mela.
The judges commented: “Mark Reed is clearly a school business manager at the top of his profession. He has demonstrated excellent practice in all key areas of the role; making financial savings, managing complex staff- ing models, generating income and improving the school’s environment. This is not a manager who sits in a back office, this is a leader whose impact is evident and whose presence has a positive impact on students’ lives.”
To find out who’s won as it’s announced, follow #TesAwards on Twitter. To discover more about the magic behind the awards, click here
