Budgeting for beginners

This course is targeted at anyone who is new to budgeting. It is suitable for all levels of staff, volunteers and those working in community organisations. Whilst designed for those in the cultural sectoral it will be relevant for those working in any environment as it covers key ideas and processes used in financial reporting.

Previous delegates have said:

“Excellent training, well planned with real-life examples and anecdotes. Presenter very knowledgeable. Supportive atmosphere”

“The presentation and handouts were clear, comprehensive and detailed without being too over-complicated. Two half days was also the perfect length. The trainer was excellent in delivering and making light of what could be a duller subject area!”

Overview of course content

• Understanding what is a budget and its purpose

• When and how to create a simple budget and individual elements and terminology within a budget

• How to use a budget and variance analysis

• An overview of other financial documents – Profit and Loss, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow and Reserves

Learning outcomes

• Understanding the nature and purpose of a budget

• Developing basic skills to create a budget

• Developing basic skills to use a budget

• Understanding the nature and purpose of other types of key financial documents

The learning outcomes map to the following areas of ARA’s competency framework;

• Managing and using financial and other resources

• Developing self and others

About our trainer: Elizabeth Oxborrow-Cowan MSc FARA is a highly experienced senior professional archivist and qualified management consultant with extensive experience across all elements of the UK archive sector. Elizabeth brings her experience in the development of high-level strategy and advocacy for the archives sector into an accessible learning programme for those looking to develop their advocacy skills.

Booking and delegate fee: £100 ARA members, £150 Corporate members , £200 non-members

The closing date for Eventbrite bookings is Friday 4th September 2026. Joining instructions will be sent 24 hours before the start date.