Finance Assistant

Simply Education Ltd; Northampton; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading education provider in Northampton is seeking a Finance Assistant to support financial operations within their school. Responsibilities include managing day-to-day financial tasks, maintaining accurate records, and liaising with external partners. The ideal candidate will have experience in a bursar or finance-related role within a school, possess strong numerical and organizational skills, and be proficient in financial software. This position offers an opportunity to work in a dynamic educational environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in a bursar, finance officer, or finance assistant role within a school.
• Knowledge of school financial procedures and compliance.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day financial operations, including invoices and expense claims.
• Support the preparation of school budgets and forecasts.
• Maintain accurate financial records.

Skills

Attention to detail

Numerical skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel

Strong communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Relevant finance qualifications (e.g., AAT)

Tools

SIMS FMS

PS Financials

Arbor

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a Finance Assistant to join our school's administrative and finance team. This role is ideal for someone with previous experience in a bursar role or financial administration within a school or educational setting. The successful candidate will support the efficient financial operation of the school, ensuring compliance with internal policies and external regulations.

Responsibilities

• Assist in managing day-to-day financial operations, including processing invoices, purchase orders, and expense claims.
• Support the preparation and monitoring of school budgets and forecasts.
• Maintain accurate financial records in line with school policies and regulatory requirements.
• Process payroll and liaise with payroll providers, ensuring accurate staff payments.
• Reconcile accounts and manage petty cash.
• Work closely with the School Bursar or Business Manager to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting.
• Assist with funding applications and grant reporting as required.
• Liaise with external suppliers, auditors, and local authorities when needed.
• Use school finance systems (e.g. SIMS FMS, PS Financials, Arbor, etc.).

Person Specification

• Essential:
  • Previous experience in a bursar, finance officer, or finance assistant role, ideally within a school.
  • Good knowledge of school financial procedures and compliance.
  • Strong attention to detail and numerical skills.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Excel and financial software.
  • Strong communication and organisational skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Desirable:
  • Experience with school finance systems (e.g., FMS, SIMS, Arbor, PSF).
  • Relevant finance qualifications (e.g., AAT, bookkeeping, or similar).
  • Understanding of school funding and budget structures.

Other Information

All candidates who register with Simply Education are required to provide references for the previous 2 years of work, as well as complete an enhanced DBS check. Due to COVID-19 regulations, any interviews we hold will be conducted over a Zoom call.

If you are interested in this role, please click apply now.