At a Glance
- Tasks: Support budgeting, process invoices, and handle payments in a dynamic finance team.
- Company: Join Cumberland Council's vibrant Finance Team and kickstart your career.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with competitive pay and gain valuable finance experience.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with guaranteed interviews for eligible candidates.
- Why this job: Get hands-on experience and a recognised qualification for a bright future in finance.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed, just a passion for finance and eagerness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 800 - 1200 € per month.
Salary: From September 2026 - £8.00 per hour – Apprenticeship Wage during first 12 months. (If 19 years old or over, after 12 months your salary will increase to minimum wage for your age)
Hours: 37 hours per week
Location: Carlisle – Parkhouse and Civic Centre
Contract: Apprenticeship
Start Date: From September 2026 onwards
Apprenticeship Duration: Typically 12 months
Closing Date: 9th March
Interviews: 30th March – 20th April 2026
About This Opportunity
Kickstart your career in finance with a hands‑on apprenticeship at the heart of Cumberland Council’s busy Finance Team! We’re excited to be recruiting Finance Assistant Apprentices to join us. As a Finance Assistant Apprentice, you’ll see how a real finance service operates day to day – from supporting budgeting and processing invoices to handling payments and keeping essential council services running smoothly for our communities. No two days are the same, and you’ll be learning from experienced colleagues every step of the way. By the end of the apprenticeship, you’ll have solid finance experience, a recognised qualification, and a pathway into a brilliant career.
Key Responsibilities
- Processing invoices and payments
- Supporting budget monitoring and financial reporting
- Helping teams across the council with financial queries
- Using finance systems and building confident digital skills
- Working with experienced colleagues who’ll support you every step of the way
How to Apply
Complete the online application form and read all supporting information, including the Apprenticeship Description carefully. Answer the three questions telling us why you’re interested and how you have or would develop the essential skills, qualities and behaviours, providing examples. Indicate which apprenticeship you are applying for. List all your qualifications, including any predicted exam grades. Upload any additional information you’d like to provide, such as your CV or a covering letter.
Equal Opportunities
We welcome applications from everyone. At Cumberland Council, we are dedicated to enhancing the diversity of our workforce, mirroring the communities we serve. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive culture. As a Disability Confident Employer, we guarantee an interview to applicants with disabilities who meet the essential criteria. We are also an Age‑Friendly Employer, providing inclusive support for people aged 50 and over.
Reasonable Adjustments
If you require reasonable adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please inform the hiring manager or our Resourcing Team at Resourcing@Cumberland.gov.uk. Adjustments will be made where possible.
Guaranteed Interview Schemes
Candidates who meet the essential criteria for the role are eligible for a guaranteed interview scheme:
- Those who consider themselves disabled as defined by the Equality Act 2010
- Those in care or who have left care and are aged 24 and under
- Armed forces veterans whose last long‑term substantive employer was the armed forces
If you meet one or more of these criteria, select 'yes' to the appropriate question during your application.
Apprenticeship - Finance Assistant - Level 2 - CMB2348e in Carlisle employer: Cumberland Council
Cumberland Council offers an exceptional apprenticeship experience in finance, providing a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. As part of our Finance Team in Carlisle, you'll gain hands-on experience while working alongside experienced colleagues, ensuring you build essential skills for a successful career in finance. With a commitment to diversity and equal opportunities, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds, making this a meaningful and rewarding place to kickstart your professional journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprenticeship - Finance Assistant - Level 2 - CMB2348e in Carlisle
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Cumberland Council and their finance team. Understanding their values and mission will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to finance and teamwork. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! Think of examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your financial knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork. Be ready to discuss these during your interview to make a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that can set you apart from other candidates and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Apprenticeship - Finance Assistant - Level 2 - CMB2348e in Carlisle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. It’s packed with info about what we’re looking for in a Finance Assistant Apprentice, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and skills required.
Show Us Your Passion:When answering the questions in the application, let your enthusiasm shine through! Tell us why you’re excited about this apprenticeship and how it fits into your career goals. We love to see genuine interest!
Use Real Examples:Don’t just list skills; back them up with examples! Whether it’s from school projects, part-time jobs, or volunteer work, show us how you’ve developed the essential skills we’re after. This makes your application stand out!
Double-Check Your Application:Before hitting submit, give your application a once-over. Check for any typos or missing info. A polished application shows attention to detail, which is super important in finance. And remember, apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cumberland Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the basics of finance and the specific tasks you'll be doing as a Finance Assistant Apprentice. Brush up on processing invoices, budget monitoring, and financial reporting. This will show your enthusiasm and readiness to dive into the role.
✨Showcase Your Skills
When answering questions, highlight any relevant skills or experiences you have. If you've worked with finance systems or handled budgets in school projects, share those examples! It’s all about demonstrating how you can contribute to the team.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the team dynamics, what a typical day looks like, or how success is measured in the apprenticeship. It shows you're genuinely interested in the role and eager to learn.
✨Be Yourself
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but remember to relax and be yourself. The team wants to see your personality and how you’d fit into their culture. A positive attitude and a willingness to learn can go a long way!