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Johannesburg School of Finance
Budgeting Training Course for Managers – Practical Skills in 4 Days
This 4-day budgeting training course gives you the tools to build, manage and defend a business budget. You’ll work through real-world exercises covering cost control, cash flow forecasting, capex vs opex planning, and variance analysis — led by an instructor with 28+ years of finance training experience. Designed for non-financial professionals. No accounting background required.
⏰ 4 Days Duration
👨🎓 200+ Completions
🎓 Certificate Included
🏢 In-House
1 – 12 Learners
💻Online
1 – 6 Learners
R18,400 (ZAR) p.p. or $1,122 (USD) p.p. (No VAT)*
*Price reflects amount per person for the duration of the full four-day course
Trusted by
George
6 months ago
I recently completed the Financial Modelling in Excel course at the Johannesburg School of Finance, and I can confidently say it was an incredibly valuable experience.
The course is exceptionally well structured, focusing not only on Excel techniques but also on the underlying thinking and design principles required to build reliable and effective financial models. What stood out most was the emphasis on practical application — every concept was grounded in real-world scenarios, making it immediately useful beyond the classroom. The course successfully builds both confidence and competence, even for those without a strong financial background, which aligns with its goal of making finance accessible and practical.
Mr John Mitchell is an outstanding instructor. His ability to simplify complex financial concepts and explain them in a clear, logical, and relatable way truly sets him apart. With decades of experience in finance training, he brings both depth of knowledge and a very human, patient teaching style to the course.
He ensures that no one is left behind, taking the time to reinforce understanding and encourage questions. His approach makes learning engaging, structured, and genuinely enjoyable.
Overall, this course exceeded my expectations. It is highly practical, thoughtfully delivered, and extremely relevant for anyone looking to build strong financial and analytical skills using Excel. I would highly recommend the Johannesburg School of Finance to anyone serious about developing real, applicable financial expertise
The course is exceptionally well structured, focusing not only on Excel techniques but also on the underlying thinking and design principles required to build reliable and effective financial models. What stood out most was the emphasis on practical application — every concept was grounded in real-world scenarios, making it immediately useful beyond the classroom. The course successfully builds both confidence and competence, even for those without a strong financial background, which aligns with its goal of making finance accessible and practical.
Mr John Mitchell is an outstanding instructor. His ability to simplify complex financial concepts and explain them in a clear, logical, and relatable way truly sets him apart. With decades of experience in finance training, he brings both depth of knowledge and a very human, patient teaching style to the course.
He ensures that no one is left behind, taking the time to reinforce understanding and encourage questions. His approach makes learning engaging, structured, and genuinely enjoyable.
Overall, this course exceeded my expectations. It is highly practical, thoughtfully delivered, and extremely relevant for anyone looking to build strong financial and analytical skills using Excel. I would highly recommend the Johannesburg School of Finance to anyone serious about developing real, applicable financial expertise
Allan B.
6 months ago
I did the Financial Modeling course with the Johannesburg School of Finance. I had an exceptional experience with this course. From the very beginning, the structure was clear, well-organized, and easy to follow. Each module built logically on the previous one, making even complex topics feel manageable and engaging.
The instructor, Mr John Mitchell demonstrated deep knowledge of the subject matter and explained concepts in a way that was both practical and easy to understand. I especially appreciated the real-world examples, which helped bridge the gap between theory and application.
The course materials were high quality, and the assignments were thoughtfully designed to reinforce learning without feeling overwhelming. Feedback was timely and constructive, which made a big difference in my progress and confidence.
What stood out most was how relevant and applicable the content was. I’ve already been able to apply what I learned in real-life situations, which speaks volumes about the value of this course.
The instructor, Mr John Mitchell demonstrated deep knowledge of the subject matter and explained concepts in a way that was both practical and easy to understand. I especially appreciated the real-world examples, which helped bridge the gap between theory and application.
The course materials were high quality, and the assignments were thoughtfully designed to reinforce learning without feeling overwhelming. Feedback was timely and constructive, which made a big difference in my progress and confidence.
What stood out most was how relevant and applicable the content was. I’ve already been able to apply what I learned in real-life situations, which speaks volumes about the value of this course.
Francis C.
7 months ago
I recently attended a financial short course offered by the Johannesburg School of Finance, and I would like to commend the institution for delivering a highly professional and impactful training experience. The course was well organized and structured in a way that ensured participants gained both theoretical understanding and practical financial skills.
The training content was relevant and comprehensive, covering key financial concepts that are essential for effective financial management and decision-making. The facilitator demonstrated a high level of expertise and was able to present complex financial topics in a clear, practical, and engaging manner. The use of real-life examples and practical exercises greatly enhanced the learning process and made it easier to relate the concepts to real work situations.
Another notable strength of the program was the interactive learning environment. Participants were encouraged to actively participate through discussions, questions, and sharing of experiences, which enriched the overall learning experience and allowed for a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
The course materials provided were also very useful and will continue to serve as valuable reference tools in my professional work. The knowledge and skills gained from this training will undoubtedly contribute to improving financial analysis, budgeting, and financial decision-making in my professional role.
Overall, the training delivered by the Johannesburg School of Finance was of a very high standard. I would highly recommend their short courses to professionals seeking to strengthen their financial knowledge and practical financial management skills.
The training content was relevant and comprehensive, covering key financial concepts that are essential for effective financial management and decision-making. The facilitator demonstrated a high level of expertise and was able to present complex financial topics in a clear, practical, and engaging manner. The use of real-life examples and practical exercises greatly enhanced the learning process and made it easier to relate the concepts to real work situations.
Another notable strength of the program was the interactive learning environment. Participants were encouraged to actively participate through discussions, questions, and sharing of experiences, which enriched the overall learning experience and allowed for a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
The course materials provided were also very useful and will continue to serve as valuable reference tools in my professional work. The knowledge and skills gained from this training will undoubtedly contribute to improving financial analysis, budgeting, and financial decision-making in my professional role.
Overall, the training delivered by the Johannesburg School of Finance was of a very high standard. I would highly recommend their short courses to professionals seeking to strengthen their financial knowledge and practical financial management skills.
Saskia van R.
7 months ago
I had a fantastic experience with John doing the Finance for Non-Financial Managers course. It was fun, informative and practical. I felt like I really understood the fundamentals which made me more confident. He has a great teaching style; patient and encouraging! There were lots of practical exercises to apply everything. Highly recommended!
Roberto Bauab P.
7 months ago
I've made a Finance course in Johannesburg School of Finance when I was a Commercial Director. Couple of months after I've got a promotion to Country Manager, partly because I've got a better understanding of the business finance language and principles acquired in this course. I highly recommend it.
Dalene B.
7 months ago
When you are done with the frustration of trying to understand text books, you go straight to Johannesburg School of Finance where you understand the training from the get go. Personal attention from John Mitchell who has decades of experience will bring clarity to the non-financial person to fully understand the world of finance in business.
Thank you John for your unique and patient sharing of your knowledge - your passion makes all the difference!
Thank you John for your unique and patient sharing of your knowledge - your passion makes all the difference!
Ashraf I.
7 months ago
As an attendee of the Johannesburg School of Finance in 2018, I am writing this review to express my sincere appreciation for the quality of education and professional development provided by the institution.
Navigating the complexities of modern finance requires more than just theoretical knowledge; it requires a sharp, analytical mindset and the ability to apply concepts to real-world scenarios. My experience at JSF was instrumental in sharpening these skills.
Key Highlights of the Experience:
Practical Curriculum: The coursework was meticulously designed, bridging the gap between academic theory and the practicalities of the South African and global financial markets.
Expert Instruction: The facilitators demonstrated not only a deep mastery of financial principles but also a keen understanding of current industry trends and regulatory environments.
Networking & Engagement: The environment fostered meaningful dialogue among professionals, allowing for a diverse exchange of ideas that added immense value to the formal sessions.
"The insight gained during my time at the Johannesburg School of Finance has been a cornerstone of my professional growth and my continued drive to keep myself up to date in respect of financial education especially from a business perspective.
The clarity with which complex investment and corporate finance modules were delivered is a testament to the school's excellence."
I highly recommend the Johannesburg School of Finance to any professional or organization looking to improve their financial literacy and strategic decision making capabilities.
It is an investment that yields immediate and tangible returns.
Best regards,
Mr. Ashraf Ismail
Navigating the complexities of modern finance requires more than just theoretical knowledge; it requires a sharp, analytical mindset and the ability to apply concepts to real-world scenarios. My experience at JSF was instrumental in sharpening these skills.
Key Highlights of the Experience:
Practical Curriculum: The coursework was meticulously designed, bridging the gap between academic theory and the practicalities of the South African and global financial markets.
Expert Instruction: The facilitators demonstrated not only a deep mastery of financial principles but also a keen understanding of current industry trends and regulatory environments.
Networking & Engagement: The environment fostered meaningful dialogue among professionals, allowing for a diverse exchange of ideas that added immense value to the formal sessions.
"The insight gained during my time at the Johannesburg School of Finance has been a cornerstone of my professional growth and my continued drive to keep myself up to date in respect of financial education especially from a business perspective.
The clarity with which complex investment and corporate finance modules were delivered is a testament to the school's excellence."
I highly recommend the Johannesburg School of Finance to any professional or organization looking to improve their financial literacy and strategic decision making capabilities.
It is an investment that yields immediate and tangible returns.
Best regards,
Mr. Ashraf Ismail
Richard H.
7 months ago
This is an excellent course that explains the financial workings of a business in clear and simple language, progressively introducing you to the concepts and with many practical examples and exercises. John Mitchell is a wonderfully patient tutor who is always prepared to answer your questions and explain anything you don't fully understand. He also has many fascinating anecdotes and insights that give real world relevance to what is being taught. I would thoroughly recommend this to anyone who is seeking to gain a good understanding of financial concepts in their professional lives.
Samantha P.
7 months ago
Did a course Finance for Non-Financial Managers with John Mitchell and it was such a dynamic and powerful course - took my career to new heights! Got an amazing job offer not long after I took the course. John is very intuitive and he has a hands-on approach on how to apply what you have learned to what you are acually doing. Highly recommend!
H P.
7 months ago
I found the course very Interesting and a serious learning curve, and although I did it a long time ago I still use what I was taught in my current daily job.
Sarah M.
7 months ago
Having completed the course in Finance for non Financial Managers, I feel much more confident in attending work meetings where financial topics are being discussed. As a trainer, John was warm, engaging, and easy to approach. He broke down the concepts in a clear, simple way and used lots of examples and practical exercises to help the knowledge stick. He also shared stories from his own experience in business, which made the course feel real and relatable. The training made key finance and accounting ideas easy to understand and showed why they matter so much for running a healthy, successful business. I can gladly recommend the JSF for those looking to deepen their knowledge in in business finance.
Why Budgeting Training Matters for Managers
Strategic Budgeting
Prepare the budget to attain the strategic goals of the Co. Consult & include for buy-in.
Forecast with
Confidence
Predict cash flow, funding needs, and future performance in line with pricing strategy.
Make Costing Work
Use costing techniques to quantify your proposals, control and monitor costs and variances. Then take corrective action.
Plan with Precision, Adapt with Ease
Create clear, controllable budgets that balance long-term investments with day-to-day operations, containing costs & boosting profit.
Who Takes This Budgeting Training Course?
- Department managers setting budgets and controlling costs.
- Team leaders responsible for financial decision-making.
- Project managers balancing limited budgets under pressure.
- Cost controllers and finance teams building capability across the business.
- Business owners seeking clear, jargon-free budgeting skills.
- Professionals stepping into management with budget responsibility for the first time.
Course Breakdown
This budgeting training course is designed to give you real, practical skills from day one. Here is how we do that…
Frequently Asked Questions
Skills Development
Category F training, fully claimable.
This course is classified as Category F on the B-BBEE Learning Programme Matrix — informal instructional programmes such as workshops, seminars, and short courses. Your organisation can claim the full invoice amount as Skills Development spend without any SETA accreditation on our side.
No SETA Accreditation Needed
Under the Amended B-BBEE Codes, Category F short courses don’t require SETA accreditation on the provider’s side for your organisation to claim the spend. Many specialist Cat F providers — JSF included — deliberately operate outside SETA to keep course costs lower.
Simple Evidence Required
For verification purposes, your organisation only needs an invoice or internal accounting record confirming the spend (Statement 300, s.5.2). That’s it — no additional SETA documentation, no external validation.
Claimable Within the 25% Cap
Category F and G spend combined may form up to 25% of your total Skills Development Expenditure under the B-BBEE scorecard (s.5.3) — a meaningful portion of most mid-size training budgets.
Referenced: Government Gazette 42496, 31 May 2019
Amended Codes of Good Practice for Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment — Code Series 300, Statement 300, Annexe 300(A). JSF short courses map to Category F: “Occupationally-directed informal instructional programmes such as workshops, seminars, conferences and short courses.”
What to Explore First? Start With These
Not ready for the full course? These articles from our blog cover some of the core thinking behind budgeting, cost control and financial decision-making.
How to Interpret Financial Statements (Without an Accounting Degree)
A manager’s guide to reading the three financial statements — what each one tells you, the figures that matter, and how they connect — without an accounting background.
Zero-Based Budgeting: When It Works (And When It's Theatre)
Zero-based budgeting is a powerful tool — and a misused one. When it works, when it’s theatre, and when incremental is the right call.
A Hands-On, Free Excel Resource Worth Bookmarking
We’re big believers in learning by doing — and that’s why we love ExcelExercises.com. It’s free, browser-based, and gets you working on practical Excel skills from the very first click. No boring videos. Just useful, hands-on learning.
Smart Ways to Control Costs and Improve Efficiency
Controlling costs starts with identifying them, eliminating waste, and improving efficiency. Learn how budgeting, monitoring, and team engagement can drive real results.