At a Glance
- Tasks: Support financial operations and maintain accurate records in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Willingdon Community School, a supportive and professional educational institution.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, health care discounts, mindfulness sessions, and social events.
- Other info: Part-time role with opportunities for career development and staff wellbeing.
- Why this job: Join a community that values personal excellence and supports your growth.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance administration and strong IT skills required.
Hours of work: 20 per week. Working pattern: Part-time, term-time only (working for 42 weeks per year plus 6.51 weeks annual leave, which will increase after 5 years' continuous service). As the position is part-time/term-time only, the above salary will be pro rata. Fixed term for: 12 months. Closing date: Monday 1 June 2026.
About the role:
- 1-year Fixed term/Term time only/20 hours per week/5 hours per day, 4 days per week /39 weeks per year plus 3 weeks in school holidays (paid for 48.51 weeks per year to include holiday entitlement).
- Actual pro rata salary range is £13,069* - £13,277* per annum (*pay award pending).
- Start date September 2026.
We are seeking a highly organised and detail-oriented Finance Assistant to join our school team. Working 20 hours per week (term time only plus 3 weeks in the school holidays), you will provide efficient financial and administrative support to the Head of Finance and Health & Safety, ensuring accurate financial records are maintained and that school financial systems, policies and procedures comply with Local Authority and Department for Education requirements. The role includes supporting budget management, processing income and expenditure, preparing financial reports and reconciliations, administering school payment systems, and assisting with statutory returns and audit requirements. The successful candidate will also provide advice and support on financial matters and deputise for the Head of Finance when required.
Applicants should have experience in finance administration, budget monitoring, reconciliations and financial reporting, along with excellent IT skills including Microsoft 365 and financial management systems. Strong organisational skills are essential. A recognised accounting qualification or experience within an educational setting is desirable. We are looking for someone with a calm and professional manner, excellent attention to detail, strong organisational skills and the ability to work independently using initiative. The successful candidate will be flexible, proactive, able to manage a varied workload, competing priorities and committed to maintaining confidentiality and work effectively both independently and as part of a team, supporting the wider school community. Must also hold a valid UK driving licence.
A rewarding opportunity to contribute to the smooth financial operation of a supportive and professional school environment.
Willingdon Community School is committed to child protection/safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, we expect all staff and volunteers to share this duty of care. All applicants will be subject to safer recruitment procedures and will require satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.
We advise applying promptly for our vacancies as we reserve the right to close and interview early if sufficient suitable applications have been received. Interview details will be sent to shortlisted candidates only.
Finance Assistant (Willingdon Community School) employer: East Sussex County Council
Willingdon Community School is an exceptional employer that prioritises staff wellbeing and professional development within a supportive educational environment. With a clear purpose of fostering personal excellence, employees benefit from flexible working hours, comprehensive health schemes, and regular opportunities for feedback and growth, all while contributing to a vibrant community dedicated to transforming lives through education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Assistant (Willingdon Community School)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector or finance world. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Willingdon Community School. Understand their values and how they support staff wellbeing. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to finance and administration. Think about scenarios where you've demonstrated strong organisational skills or handled competing priorities. We want you to feel confident and ready to impress!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate why you’d be a perfect fit for the Finance Assistant position.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Assistant (Willingdon Community School)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, make sure to read through the job description thoroughly. This will help us understand what we're looking for and ensure you tailor your application to highlight your relevant skills and experience.
Use the Application Form Wisely:When filling out the application form, be clear and concise. We want to see how your experience aligns with the role of Finance Assistant, so don’t hesitate to showcase your finance administration skills and any relevant qualifications.
Show Your Personality:While we’re keen on your qualifications, we also want to get a sense of who you are. Use the application to convey your calm and professional manner, as well as your ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and engaged with our school community right from the start.
How to prepare for a job interview at East Sussex County Council
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your financial knowledge! Familiarise yourself with basic accounting principles, budgeting, and financial reporting. Be ready to discuss how you've handled finances in previous roles, as this will show your understanding of the responsibilities you'll have as a Finance Assistant.
✨Showcase Your IT Skills
Since excellent IT skills are essential for this role, make sure you can confidently talk about your experience with Microsoft 365 and any financial management systems you've used. Consider preparing examples of how you've used these tools to improve efficiency or accuracy in your past work.
✨Demonstrate Organisational Skills
The role requires strong organisational skills, so be prepared to share specific examples of how you've managed competing priorities or a varied workload. Think of times when you successfully met deadlines or maintained accuracy under pressure, as this will highlight your ability to thrive in a busy school environment.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Independence
This position involves working both independently and as part of a team. Be ready to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous jobs while also showcasing your ability to take initiative and work autonomously. This balance is key to fitting into the supportive community at Willingdon Community School.
