At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial processes like budgeting and reporting in a supportive environment.
- Company: Join Ascend Learning Trust, committed to education and community welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, and health perks like gym discounts.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education finance while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Qualified finance professional with strong organisational and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 31785 - 33047 £ per year.
Salary: NJC O36 £52,413 FTE - NJC O38 £54,495 FTE Actual Salary: £31,785 - £33,047 (depending on experience)
Contract: Permanent
Hours per week: 22.5
Closing date: Midnight Sunday 28th June 2026
Interview Date: To be confirmed
Anticipated Start Date: 1st September 2026
Job Overview
We are looking for a qualified and detail‑focused Finance Manager who can lead key financial processes across the Trust, including budgeting, month‑end procedures, reconciliations, and financial reporting. As a successful candidate, you will be highly organised, able to work independently to tight deadlines, and confident communicating financial information to senior leaders and budget holders. Strong technical accounting skills, sound judgement, and a collaborative approach are essential, with experience in education finance or Access Education systems an added advantage.
What We Offer
- Health & Wellbeing
- Free annual flu vaccines
- Discounted gym memberships
- 24/7 counselling helpline
- Annual Wellbeing Day*
- Generous holiday allowance
- Flexible working solutions
- Optional health and fitness schemes*
- Financial
- Discounts and cashback at hundreds of retailers
- Excellent Pension Schemes, including 21.3% employer contributions for support staff
- Cycle to Work and Tech Schemes*
- Career Progression
- Instructional Coaching for teaching roles
- Supportive performance development
- Apprenticeship and training opportunities
- Internal progression pathways
- Recognition and long-service awards
*Please note some allowances are only applicable on completion of a successful probation.
Please note if we receive sufficient applications, we may close this job role earlier.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. If you need adjustments to support your application, please contact the Recruitment Team on 01793 781485 or recruitment@ascendlearningtrust.org.uk.
Safeguarding Statement
Ascend Learning Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Please note that this role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, which means that you are required to disclose any criminal convictions, cautions, warnings, or reprimands, even if they would normally be considered "spent" and a DBS check will be carried out before any employment commences. In line with KCSIE 2025 and safer recruitment practices, the school will conduct an online search for all shortlisted candidates. The online search is part of our safeguarding checks and will seek publicly available information on candidates’ suitability to work with children. Shortlisted candidates will be provided with further guidance and will be asked to clarify their online presence. References will be obtained before interview at shortlisting stage and may be used in the interview process. If previous employment has included working with children, then at least one referee must be from this employment regardless of whether this is the current or most recent employment. Any gaps in employment must be detailed and an explanation provided in the relevant section.
Finance Manager (0.6 FTE) in Royal Wootton Bassett employer: Ascend Learning Trust
Ascend Learning Trust is an exceptional employer that prioritises the health and wellbeing of its staff, offering generous benefits such as discounted gym memberships, free annual flu vaccines, and a supportive work culture that encourages career progression through training and internal pathways. Located in a vibrant educational environment, this role as Finance Manager not only provides competitive salary packages but also fosters a collaborative atmosphere where your contributions are valued and recognised.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager (0.6 FTE) in Royal Wootton Bassett
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Ascend Learning Trust. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager (0.6 FTE) in Royal Wootton Bassett
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Ascend Learning Trust.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Ascend Learning Trust's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ascend Learning Trust
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Ascend Learning Trust.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Ascend Learning Trust will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Ascend Learning Trust employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
