Finance Assistant in Hitchin

Finance Assistant in Hitchin

Hitchin Full-Time 27254 - 29540 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support the Finance Manager with day-to-day financial administration and budget control.
  • Company: Join Hitchin Boys' School, a vibrant and well-respected educational institution.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team, and commitment to staff wellbeing.
  • Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
  • Why this job: Make a difference in a school environment while developing your finance skills.
  • Qualifications: Experience in finance office and confidence in using finance software required.

The predicted salary is between 27254 - 29540 £ per year.

37 Hours per Week, Mon‑Fri 8:30am - 4:30pm, 41 weeks per year (term time + 15 days)

Grade: H5 FTE salary: £27,254 - £29,540 Actual salary: £24,514 - £26,570 (depending on qualification/experience)

Hitchin Boys’ School (HBS) is an outstanding and over‑subscribed comprehensive school with a mixed sixth form, which forms part of the highly successful Hitchin Schools’ Consortium. We have a history that stretches back nearly 400 years but embrace fresh thinking and a modern, vibrant curriculum. We have high expectations, excellent standards of behaviour and pride in our extra‑curricular activities that lead to academically successful and well‑rounded students who are well equipped for life beyond school.

We are now seeking a Finance Assistant to support the Finance Manager in managing the day‑to‑day finances and financial administration of the school. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are essential as are the ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines and plan priorities effectively. Experience of working in a finance office is essential as well as confidence in using computerised finance systems.

Key duties will include:

  • Assisting with the control of the school budgets and accounts, implementing and operating effective systems of budgetary control using Access finance software.
  • Collect and bank cash and cheques for all bank accounts and process in Access.
  • Record all income received in line with the monthly timetable, ensuring suitable documentation is available to support the financial transactions.
  • Complete the monthly petty cash reconciliation.
  • Invoice debtors and ensure monies are subsequently received.
  • Identification & preparation of monthly/annual Prepayments/Accruals to ensure accurate accounting within Access.
  • Assist with the monthly bank, credit card and balance sheet reconciliations.
  • Assist with year‑end audit process ensuring requirements are met in a timely fashion prior to audit, including completion/collation of the year end audit pack.
  • Responsibility for placing and recording purchase orders, ensuring appropriate budget holder authorisation, in line with Schedule of Financial Delegation and accurate coding in Access.
  • Review outstanding purchase orders at month end and follow up as necessary to assist with accurate and timely monthly accounting and reporting.
  • Administer the WisePay service including the setting up of school trips & recording of receipts in Access.
  • Understanding of HMRC VAT regulations ensuring sales/purchases are recorded correctly to ensure the accurate submission of the monthly VAT return.
  • Prepare weekly BACS runs.
  • Check supplier payments and identify and record supplier/payment details.
  • Carry out any administrative duties as may reasonably be requested.

The successful candidate will:

  • Have experience of working in a finance office (Essential).
  • Be confident in using computerised finance systems.
  • Be able to work under pressure, meet deadlines & plan priorities effectively.
  • Have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both oral & written.
  • Have excellent attention to detail and high level of accuracy.
  • Be willing to work as part of a team.
  • Be able to use initiative and work under supervision.
  • Be flexible in attitude and adaptable to change.

What can HBS offer you?

  • A team of high‑performing committed professionals who are constantly striving for excellence.
  • A school with great traditions, an excellent reputation but with a modern outlook.
  • A dedicated well‑qualified and experienced staff who share the goal enshrined in our school motto “Per Ardua Ad Alta” – Striving for Excellence.
  • A commitment to supporting the mental, physical & emotional wellbeing of both staff and students.
  • Free Employee Assistance Programme, accessible 24/7 and on‑site mental health first aiders.

Application deadline: 9am on Monday 22nd June 2026

Interviews: Dates to be confirmed.

Applications: Applications should be submitted via MyNewTerm.

Hitchin Boys' School reserves the right to close this advert early in event of a suitable candidate being identified. Further information on our school can be found on the school website https://www.hitchinboys.co.uk. HBS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. All staff will be subject to an enhanced check with the Disclosure & Barring Service. HBS is committed to creating a diverse workforce. We will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, religion, belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, pregnancy, maternity, age, disability, marriage or civil partnership.

Finance Assistant in Hitchin employer: Hitchin Boys' School

Hitchin Boys' School is an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and collaborative work environment, dedicated to the professional growth of its staff. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, including access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme and on-site mental health support, HBS prioritises a healthy work-life balance. Joining our team means being part of a prestigious institution with a modern outlook, where you can contribute to shaping well-rounded students while enjoying a fulfilling career in finance.

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Contact Details:

Hitchin Boys' School Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Finance Assistant in Hitchin

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 Hitchin Boys' School. 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 Hitchin

Experience in a finance office
Computerised finance systems proficiency
Budget management
Cash handling
Access finance software
Petty cash reconciliation
Invoicing and debt collection

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 Hitchin Boys' School.

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 Hitchin Boys' School'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 Hitchin Boys' School

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 Hitchin Boys' School.

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 Hitchin Boys' School 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 Hitchin Boys' School 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.