Financial Accountant (part-time/full time) in London

The German School London / Deutsche Schule London (DSL) is part of a long-standing tradition of excellence in the world-wide network of more than 136 German schools abroad which are accredited and supported by the Federal Republic of Germany. With approximately 180 permanent staff, we offer a first-class education in an international, friendly school community to almost 900 students representing more than 50 nations. Within this community, we promote individual learning and critical thinking, opening the doors to excellent training and career opportunities in the UK, Germany, Europe and around the world. The DSL provides a distinguished educational programme from Kindergarten to Abitur with a specific emphasis on German language and culture in a bi-lingual environment. DSL is double-rated by both Ofsted and the German BLI (Bund-Länder-Inspektion) and was awarded an “Outstanding” as well as an “Exzellente Deutsche Auslandsschule” rating in the recent inspections in 2025. Set within beautiful and spacious grounds by the River Thames, the school provides a truly exceptional setting that supports the wellbeing, creativity and success of both staff and pupils.

Position

This is a unique opportunity for an experienced Financial Accountant to join our international Finance team assisting the Financial Controller as well as working autonomously as follows:

• Assist in the preparation of VAT returns and other tax-related filings, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
• All aspects of Suppliers ledger control - Checking invoices for correct approvals, liaising with budget holders, paying suppliers £ and € and posting relevant transactions into SAGE.
• All aspects of Customers ledger control – Liaising with school registrar for new starters & leavers, invoice posting, correspondence with customers, advising on payment plans and controlling those agreed with financial controller.
• Overseeing the staff expenses process.
• Perform account reconciliations, Supplier, Customer and Bank, to ensure the accuracy of financial data.
• Liaising internally regarding school trips, afternoon sessions, supplementary school activities in order to raise invoices through Sage to reconcile back to activities cost.
• Liaise with credit card holders regarding their statements, provision of support in order to ensure correct coding for posting.
• Manage the security deposit portfolio for receipts and refunds.
• Support when and where required in the management of general ledgers, ensuring all transactions are recorded accurately.
• Provide support during year-end external audits, preparing necessary documentation and financial schedules as required.
• Assist in the posting of journals and accruals, to ensure timely and accurate reporting.
• Assist in financial reporting and analyses to support decision-making.
• Ensure all accounting processes adhere to company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Provide ad-hoc support to the finance team, identify and suggest improvements.
• Willingness to help improve accounting systems and processes to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years' experience, with strong Debit and Credit understanding.
• Ability to ‘hit the ground running’ and work independently.
• Part-qualified or QBE.
• Very good knowledge of Sage Line 50 and Excel is necessary.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience working in contract roles is desirable.

Other information

This is a role for candidates with long term career ambitions at the School.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package to support your wellbeing and career growth, including paid annual leave, enhanced sick pay, professional development support and career progression opportunities, employee discount schemes, an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), on-site staff canteen with subsidised meals, free parking, a competitive pension scheme, long service awards, and regular company events and team-building activities.

Application deadline: 30th April 2026. All applications must be received through the DSL school website, and include a covering letter, stating how the applicant meets the requirements of the job. The School reserves the right to close the recruitment process early. The German School London is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and will carry out a DBS check and appropriate screening on applicants. The German School Association is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all applicants who meet the requirements for the position, in particular from those in minority groups for which the School is currently underrepresented.