At a Glance
- Tasks: Support schools with finance-related advice and management information.
- Company: Join a friendly Multi-Academy Trust dedicated to education.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, health support, and professional development.
- Other info: Hybrid working available with opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education while developing your finance skills.
- Qualifications: Finance experience and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 29064 - 31022 £ per year.
Grace Schools is seeking to appoint an Assistant Finance Associate for 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Hybrid working is available.
Salary: Point 13-17 (£29,064 – £31,022) commencing as soon as possible.
Driving license required. The post involves travel to Grace Schools in the Cambridgeshire & South Cambridgeshire area and other Trust locations as required. The main office base is in Ely with attendance at the Ely office required once per week.
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Finance Team within Grace Schools. It offers a chance to gain experience within a large Multi‑Academy Trust, develop your career, and make a real difference to the schools.
The Assistant Finance Associate plays a key role in supporting schools across the Trust, acting as a trusted first point of contact for finance‑related advice and guidance. Working closely with Headteachers and senior leaders, you will provide valuable management information, financial support, and practical solutions to help schools make informed decisions and achieve their goals.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone with financial understanding, a proactive approach, and a passion for supporting education. The role requires communication and organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
Successful applicants will:
- Have generalist finance experience in some or all of these key areas – financial planning, monthly reporting and analysis, and balance sheet reviews.
- Have experience of working in a team.
- Be able to develop good working relationships.
- Be resilient and be able to prioritise and set clear priorities in managing their workload.
- Have excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate well at all levels.
- Must be able to drive, hold a valid driving licence and be prepared to travel to our schools.
Benefits:
- 27 days plus bank holidays as annual leave (FTE)
- GP 24/7 service and access to an online health and well‑being hub
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Access to Eyecare Vouchers
- Discount Schemes
- A number of pension options are available including the local government pension scheme
- Friendly and close‑knit team
- A commitment to ongoing professional development
- Inclusive policies and practices
Closing date: 28 June 2026
Interviews: Thursday 2 July 2026
Safer Recruitment: The Grace Schools/Diocese of Ely Multi Academy Trust (DEMAT) is committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all staff and job applicants. We aim to create a supportive and inclusive working environment in which all individuals can make best use of their skills, free from discrimination or harassment, and in which all decisions are based on merit.
We do not discriminate against staff based on age, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religious or political belief or affiliation, trade union membership, gender, gender reassignment, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, sexual orientation, disability, socio‑economic background or any other inappropriate distinction or characteristic covered by the Equality Act 2010.
Grace Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. Please be aware that all shortlisted candidates will have an online search conducted as part of Grace Schools due diligence checks in line with KCSIE.
Assistant Finance Associate in Ely employer: Grace Schools
Grace Schools is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive. With a commitment to ongoing professional development, generous benefits including 27 days of annual leave, and a friendly team culture, the role of Assistant Finance Associate provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in education while enjoying a hybrid working model. Located in the picturesque Cambridgeshire area, this position not only allows for career growth within a large Multi-Academy Trust but also fosters strong relationships with school leaders, ensuring that your contributions are valued and impactful.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Finance Associate in Ely
✨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 Grace Schools. 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 Assistant Finance Associate in Ely
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 Grace Schools.
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 Grace Schools'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 Grace Schools
✨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 Grace Schools.
✨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 Grace Schools 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 Grace Schools 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.
