Temporary Finance Officer

Wade Macdonald; Reading; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading organisation in the education sector is seeking a Temporary Finance Officer for a part-time role in Reading. The position supports financial operations by preparing reports, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance. Ideal for candidates with experience in finance and strong Excel skills, this role offers a collaborative working environment and the chance to impact the school community positively.

Benefits

Positive working culture

Training opportunities

Supportive leadership team

Qualifications

• Proven experience in finance within an educational or similar public sector setting.
• Strong Excel skills and familiarity with finance systems.
• Excellent organisational and communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Assisting in planning and monitoring the school budget.
• Preparing financial reports for stakeholders.
• Administering payroll queries and processing invoices.

Skills

Excel

Organizational Skills

Communication

Attention to Detail

Time Management

Education

Accounting Qualification

Tools

Access Finance

Arbor

Job description

Temporary Finance Officer - Reading (office based) - £13 - £16 per hour Part time – 20-24 hours a week.

About the Client

This opportunity is with an organisation in the Education sector, part of a wider Trust supporting specialist educational provision. With a dedicated team and a collaborative environment, they cultivate a supportive atmosphere where mentorship and professional development are central to their mission.

About the Job

This is a key role in the school’s finance and administration team, supporting effective financial operations and providing reporting to stakeholders. You will play a vital part in ensuring the school makes efficient use of resources and adheres to audit requirements, with scope to deputise for the School Business Manager when required.

Duties will include:

• Assisting in planning and monitoring the school budget
• Preparing financial reports for budget holders, senior leadership, and governors
• Administering timesheets and handling payroll queries
• Processing purchase orders, BACS payments, and supplier invoices
• Reconciling procurement card usage and petty cash reimbursements
• Managing invoicing, receipts, banking, and credit notes
• Recording and reconciling grant income and trust accounts
• Maintaining accurate financial records and fixed asset registers
• Supporting year-end processes, audits, and ensuring compliance
• Responding to finance-related queries and covering for colleagues when needed

About the Successful Applicant

You will have proven experience in finance within an educational or similar public sector setting, with strong Excel skills and familiarity with systems such as Access Finance or Arbor. An accounting qualification is required, along with excellent organisational and communication abilities. A proactive, detail-focused approach and the ability to manage competing priorities are essential.

What You Will Receive in Return

In return, you will join a team that values collaboration and continuous development. The organisation offers a positive working culture, training opportunities, and a supportive leadership team. You’ll have a meaningful impact within a purpose-driven environment, making a real difference to pupils and the wider school community.