Empowering Schools with Expertise and Integrity
We bring decades of hands-on experience in education finance and business management to help schools thrive.
Led by BarryWalder, our family-run consultancy is built on a foundation of extensive sector knowledge, practical insight, and a genuine commitment to supporting school leaders.
Our team includes seasoned Business Managers and finance consultants with backgrounds in both academies and maintained schools, as well as within Local Authorities.
Our values
Our mission
To help schools improve their financial management — ensuring budgets are planned effectively, monitored accurately, and that every school achieves value for money.
Why it matters
Strong financial management directly supports improved educational outcomes. When schools have clarity over their finances, Headteachers and Governing Bodies can make better decisions for their pupils.
Who we work with
Maintained schools, academies, free schools and multi-academy trusts across London and the South East.
Sector specialists
Our consultants have worked inside academies, maintained schools and Local Authorities. We understand the pressures from the inside — not as outsiders looking in.
Personally accountable
We're a close-knit team, not a large agency. Every school gets consistent, attentive support from people who know their context and their challenges.
Truly independent
We have no ties to any single finance platform or Local Authority. Our advice is always in the best interest of the school.
What our clients say
"
Thank you for your swift and timely support in setting up my BMR in time for an audit visit this week. The support from James was brilliant and no question was too big or too small.
Jo Lee
Stamford Green
"
All the staff are very helpful and friendly. Response times are quick and efficient and I haven't had an issue yet that Duncan or the team couldn't solve.
Louise MacMahon
Ashford CE Primary School
"
I am new to the school business manager role and the support I have received from SMS is invaluable. Glyn has been amazing and supportive through month end procedures and budget setting.
Stephanie Rusted
Horsell C of E Junior School
"
SMS provide a friendly and reliable service, helping to reduce our workload and quickly resolve any issues. Their support is always efficient and much appreciated.
"
The team is incredibly knowledgeable, professional and always willing to help. No matter how complex the issue or query, they consistently provide clear guidance and effective solutions. Their expertise and support have been invaluable, especially for a new
SBM like myself.
SBM
St Josephs Catholic Primary School Epsom
"
SMS has been an invaluable partner in navigating the financial complexities of the School Business Manager role. Their extensive knowledge, expert tools, and growing range of services provide complete assurance and operational confidence.
SBM
St Josephs Catholic Primary School Epsom
"
The team is incredibly knowledgeable, professional and always willing to help. No matter how complex the issue or query, they consistently provide clear guidance and effective solutions. Their expertise and support have been invaluable, especially for a new
SBM like myself.
"
Working with the team at SMS over the last year has made our whole team so much happier and resulted in our internal processes being much better, quicker, clearer and more consistent.
Sarah Ewins
Chief Finance and Operating Officer — Middlesex Learning Trust
"
Backed by amazing consultants who genuinely care about delivering the best outcomes for our school, I honestly cannot imagine operating without their support- they have been an essential service.
SBM
St Josephs Catholic Primary School Epsom
Not sure what you need? Talk to us.
We'll listen to your situation and recommend the right level of support — no obligation.