At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the school’s financial systems and assist with administrative duties.
- Company: Fordwater School, a compassionate and inclusive special school.
- Benefits: Generous holiday entitlement, training opportunities, and staff discounts.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to enhancing pupils' lives.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact in a supportive educational environment.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and attention to detail; finance experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 20038 - 25000 £ per year.
Location: Fordwater School, Summersdale Road, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 6PP
Hours: 8:30am – 3.30pm – Monday to Friday - Term time only with 5 Inset Days + 1 week additional school holidays.
Salary: WSCC Grade 6, spinal point 9 - £27,254 - Please be advised that this salary represents a 52 week contract and the actual salary would be pro rata.
Contract Term: Permanent
Interviews: Friday 17th July
Start Date: 1st September 2026
Fordwater School is a compassionate and inclusive special school environment, committed to supporting pupils, families and staff. We are seeking a highly organised and motivated Finance Assistant to join our dedicated administration team.
About the Role
The Finance Assistant will play a key role in supporting the smooth and efficient running of the school’s financial and administrative systems. This includes processing invoices and purchase orders, maintaining accurate financial records, and assisting with wider office duties.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is detail oriented, proactive and committed to working within a supportive educational setting.
Key Responsibilities
- Process purchase orders and invoices in line with school procedures
- Maintain accurate financial records and assist with account reconciliation
- Support budget monitoring and financial reporting
- Respond to finance queries from staff and suppliers
- Assist with school income administration (e.g. trips and lettings)
- Research and support applications for additional grants and funding opportunities
- Provide general administrative and office support, including reception duties when required
- Maintain filing systems and support data entry in line with GDPR
- Assist with organising meetings, events, and school documentation
- Minute taking
What We Are Looking For
- Strong administrative and organisational skills
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
- A professional, flexible and proactive approach
- Experience in finance or administration (desirable)
Why Join Us?
- Work within a caring and inclusive school community
- Be part of a supportive and collaborative team
- Opportunities for training and professional development
- Contribute to making a positive difference to pupils’ lives
Benefits
- Generous holiday entitlement of between 25 and 31 days, depending on job title and length of service
- Maternity, paternity, dependency and adoption leave
- Training and development opportunities, including coaching and mentoring
- A range of discounts giving our staff access to hundreds of offers; groceries, travel, cinema tickets, days out, leisure activities, high street retailers and the opportunity to save over £1,000 a year through our West Sussex Choices benefits platform
- Discounted membership at selected local sports and fitness centres
- A range of commuting and business travel discount and initiatives
- Health and wellbeing benefits including access to our Employee Assistance Programme, Mental Health First Aiders and Voluntary Health Cash Plans
- Salary finance schemes
- Working for a veteran-friendly employer.
Fordwater is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our children and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will require a satisfactory enhanced DBS check and two references, including one from their most recent employer.
We adhere to equal opportunity employment and welcome diversity and inclusiveness in our staff recruitment processes.
Finance Assistant in Chichester employer: Fordwatersch
Fordwater School is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and inclusive environment where staff can thrive while making a meaningful impact on students' lives. With generous holiday entitlements, professional development opportunities, and a supportive team culture, employees are encouraged to grow both personally and professionally. Located in the picturesque Chichester, the school provides unique benefits such as discounts on local services and a commitment to employee wellbeing, making it an attractive place for those seeking rewarding employment in education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Assistant in Chichester
✨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 Fordwatersch. 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 Assistant in Chichester
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 Fordwatersch.
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 Fordwatersch'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 Fordwatersch
✨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 Fordwatersch.
✨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 Fordwatersch 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 Fordwatersch 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.
