IT Services ManagerMarch/April 2026 Start Date Application Pack for the Role ofCHEAM | IT Services ManagerRole OverviewCheam, a wonderful co-educational prep school on the Berkshire/Hampshire border, is looking for anIT Services Manager to join Cheam as a full time, technically proficient and inspiring leader of its ITdepartment at an exciting time in its growth and evolution.After a period of significant infrastructure investment, the successful candidate will be responsible fordeveloping and implementing Cheam’s IT Services Strategy as part of a cross-school collaborativeendeavour to secure our place as the leading preparatory School in the country, and the happiest. TheIT Services Manager will report to the most senior non-teaching member of staff at Cheam, be amember of the newly created cross-functional IT Digital Committee and lead a small IT support teamconsisting of an IT Network Manager and and IT Technician. We are looking for someone who can maintain a safe, secure and reliable IT platform and relatedsystems that enable the provision of a first-class education and efficient business operation. The rolewould suit an experienced IT professional with a passion for working collaboratively in a fast-pacedand friendly environment that makes great things happen. You should have a track record ofsuccessfully leading small teams responsible for delivering and maintaining technology services aswell as project management experience. Reporting directly to the Director of Finance & Operations (DFO), the IT Services Manager plays apivotal role ensuring the safe and reliable operation of IT infrastructure and related systems across thewhole School and will work collaboratively with Cheam’s Deputy Heads (Academic, Pastoral, Co-Curricular), and other key teaching and operational stakeholders. About Cheam SchoolCheam was founded in 1645 and is one of the oldest prep schools in the world. Cheam is an IAPSboarding and day school with over 300 pupils, boys and girls from age 3-13 years. Cheam prides itselfon its excellent all-round record academically, musically, artistically and on the sports field and isespecially highly regarded for its Character education. The facilities are outstanding.  On completingtheir education at Cheam, children move on to the top Public Schools in England, including Eton,Wellington, Marlborough, Radley, Harrow, Winchester, Bradfield and St. Mary’s, Calne. The school isnon-selective yet achieves consistently high standards academically, through an inspirational anddedicated team of teachers. Cheam School is situated in a stunning rural location ten minutes from Newbury and fifteen minutesfrom Basingstoke, just off the A339. It is surrounded by smaller towns and villages from which it drawsmany of its pupils. www.cheamschool.co.ukCheam School, Headley, Berkshire, RG19 8LD CHEAM | IT Services ManagerStrategic ResponsibilitiesMember of Cheam’s newly formed cross-functional IT Digital Committee.Develop and implement Cheam’s IT Services Strategy within an approved financial framework thatenables delivery of the School’s educational and operational plans. In doing so, review, rationalise,integrate and optimise systems, processes and operating models to achieve best-in-classoutcomes. This includes exploring the use of AI to support the running of IT Services.Maintain safe, secure, resilient and reliable network architecture, device hardware and coreoperating systems, including internet access, internal networking, data storage, devicemanagement, printing and telephony. Ensure appropriate systems backup, business continuityand disaster recovery solutions. Act as Cheam’s Data Protection Officer, working in partnership with other key stakeholders toensure legal, regulatory and policy compliance regarding cyber security, access control, filtering &monitoring and GDPR, striving for best practice in all areas. Codify institutional knowledge and ways of working including an auditable asset register tomaintain the physical security of all IT assets.Maintain Cheam’s dedicated IT risk register and mitigating action plans for Board approval.www.cheamschool.co.ukCheam School, Headley, Berkshire, RG19 8LDwww.cheamschool.co.ukCheam School, Headley, Berkshire, RG19 8LDCHEAM | IT Services ManagerOperational ResponsibilitiesLead and manage the IT Network Manager and IT Technician with an active focus on theirwellbeing, training and development. Ensure staff appraisals are completed to a high standard andon time.Oversee day-to-day IT operations including HelpDesk support for pupils and staff. Ensure issuesare resolved quickly and effectively, engaging and managing third-party providers, as required.Maintain and secure Cheam’s cloud-based operating environment and cloud-to-cloud back-upsystem. Assurance on cyber security will include running penetration tests, phishing exercises andother simulations to identify and reduce vulnerabilities and provide regular training for users.Secure best practice accreditation &/or kitemark. Maintain the School’s MIS (iSAMs), ensuring that relevant collaborative platforms and databasesare updated at key points in the academic calendar.  Partner with the Deputy Head Pastoral and other key stakeholders to ensure web filtering systemsand processes continue to safeguard pupils.Monitor account creation, archiving of users and licensing requirements.Maintain the IT Services Handbook.Manage the contract for the new Managed Print Solution to agreed supply and service standards,ensuring a fast and reliable end-user experience. Similarly, oversee other IT-related procurement,lease and vendor relationships to ensure reliable, high-quality provision, effective riskmanagement and good value-for-money.Own, lead and execute agreed IT projects &/or provide technical expertise and support to otherSchool initiatives with an IT interface. Examples include classroom upgrades, systemimplementations, CCTV and access control, website support, stage lighting & AV systems and therecording of School events.  Arrange appropriate user training on new hardware, key systems and core software programmes.Develop, implement and track key performance indicators that monitor the ongoing effectivenessof IT Services infrastructure, operating systems and end-user satisfaction.www.cheamschool.co.ukCheam School, Headley, Berkshire, RG19 8LDCHEAM | IT Services ManagerFinancial ResponsibilitiesPrepare timely and reasoned budget submissions including operating costs and capitalexpenditure.Manage delegated financial budgets in accordance with the School’s Financial Procedures &Controls Policy. Submit billing information, invoice approvals and other management informationin line with Bursary expectations.Provide accurate in-year forecasts and contribute to longer-term planning.Skills, Qualifications and ExperienceAble to think strategically and execute operationally.Customer-focused subject matter expert.Structured and solutions-orientated.Driven completer-finisher capable of influencing and implementing change.Motivating and positive attitude that empowers others.Flexible, creative and adaptable approach to meet the evolving needs of IT systems and digitalprocesses.A commitment to achieving IT-led academic and operational excellence.Professional and ethical approach with an appreciation for diverse cultures. Dedication to ongoing Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and staying abreast of thelatest advances in technology in the education sector.Ideally degree-educated with a professional qualification in information technology, informationgovernance, or a related field.A minimum of 3 years experience in IT Services, with increasing responsibility.A broad knowledge of cutting-edge digital technology processes and systems.Experience of working with and supporting a range of information technologies:Microsoft technologies: 365, Azure, Windows, AD, Server and Exchange.®Networks: network switches, wireless networks, routers, cabling infrastructure.Cyber security: firewalls, web filters, advanced protection and recovery.Cloud technologies.Audio visual hardware and systems.Back-up solutions: cloud backup.Being Microsoft Certified (e.g. Azure, 365, Security) is desirable but not essential.®Strong project management and systems implementation experience, able to lead, prioritise anddeliver multiple objectives concurrently within budget and on schedule.Excellent interpersonal skills, both oral and written.Proven leader and change agent, with strong organisational and administrative skills.Commercially astute, and able to manage large, complex budgets.www.cheamschool.co.ukCheam School, Headley, Berkshire, RG19 8LDCHEAM | IT Services ManagerHours of Work and SalarySalary will be competitive, according to experience and qualifications. This is a full-time non-teaching role, working 40 hours per week during term time and holidays. Hoursare usually worked 8.30am-5.30pm Monday to Friday, although as a six-day-a-week School, occasionalSaturday and evening work may be required to meet operational requirements. To accommodate this,flexible working arrangements, TOIL and overtime are therefore available.School Holidays and Days OffLeave entitlement is 25 days paid holiday in each holiday year (between 1 September and 31 August),not including public holidays. Depending on operational requirements, annual leave is normally takenduring School holidays. Staff are expected to attend INSET days just before the start of each term andmay be required to complete specific training immediately after the end of term.Benefits Generous pension scheme. Professional development, including mentoring and a variety of training opportunities.School lunches, snacks and refreshments provided during term time.Use of the school gym and Cheam’s wonderful facilities.Wellbeing focus with access to physio, counsellors and regular team socials.Free onsite parkingwww.cheamschool.co.ukCheam School, Headley, Berkshire, RG19 8LDCHEAM | IT Services ManagerWorking at CheamOur staff are Cheam’s greatest asset. From the inspiring and experienced teachers to the efficient andfriendly support teams, everyone contributes to the special environment at Cheam. It is the perfectplace for staff to thrive and grow. We are looking for a candidate who has confidence, integrity,humility, fun and humour and is happy to give their time, expertise, skill and intellect to makingCheam a great place for children and colleagues. At Cheam, we are not only committed to academicexcellence but also to the personal growth and character development of each and every pupil. Staff atCheam are expected to take an active role in helping children reflect upon and grow their characters,using an initiative, the Cheam Diploma, as a platform to guide and support this process.Click on the logos below to read our wonderful reviews and listings“Having worked in a number of schools, when I found Cheam, itfelt the most like home. The team, the amazing site and thepositive, can-do attitudes are what makes it a great place to workand live.”“It’s a privilege to work in such a beautiful setting, with abrilliant group of colleagues who make coming to workworthwhile.”“The feeling of camaraderie amongst the staff and being partof the Cheam team. It’s a very special community.” CHEAM | IT Services ManagerHow to Apply To apply, please complete the application form and equal opportunities form found on our website atwww.cheamschool.co.uk and please include a covering letter. Unfortunately we are unable to acceptapplications without a completed application form.Covering letters and application forms should be submitted via email to Kathryn Hathaway, Head ofCompliance and HR to hathawayk@cheamschool.co.uk - alternatively you can post your application tothe address below.Key Dates Closing date for applications: Monday 2 February 2026 at 5pmndInterviews will be held shortly afterwards. Start date: March/April 2026The school reserves the right to call someone to interview before the application closing date.Safeguarding, Equality, Diversity and InclusionCheam School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young peopleand expects all staff to share this commitment. Applicants must undergo child protection screening,including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.We are also committed to a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion. If you believe your personalvalues would fit with the Cheam values and ethos we would love to hear from you. Whatever yourbackground, if you lead by example, show resilience, kindness and seek always to integrate and share,please get in touch.www.cheamschool.co.ukCheam School, Headley, Berkshire, RG19 8LD