At a Glance
- Tasks: Support financial operations and deliver excellent customer service in a busy finance team.
- Company: Join the Learning Academies Trust, dedicated to outstanding education for all children.
- Benefits: Collaborative environment, training opportunities, and a rewarding role supporting schools.
- Other info: Commitment to staff wellbeing and professional development in a supportive setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the financial health of schools and young people.
- Qualifications: AAT Level 2 or relevant finance experience; strong numeracy and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
We are seeking an enthusiastic and proactive Finance Assistant to join our busy and supportive Central Finance Team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with finance experience, strong attention to detail and a passion for delivering excellent customer service. Reporting to the Trust Management Accountant, you will play an important role in supporting the Trust's financial operations, helping to ensure the financial health and sustainability of our schools and central services.
About the Role
As a Finance Assistant, you will provide high-quality transactional processing and financial support across the Trust. Your responsibilities will include:
- Processing purchase orders, invoices and supplier payments
- Setting up new suppliers and maintaining accurate records
- Reconciling supplier statements and resolving queries
- Monitoring and managing the finance inbox
- Processing staff expenses and credit card transactions
- Supporting month-end and year-end financial processes
- Assisting with audit preparation and financial compliance activities
- Supporting schools with financial administration and queries
- Processing sales invoice requests and educational trip costings
- Building positive working relationships with colleagues across the Trust
About You
We are looking for someone who:
- Has an AAT Level 2 qualification or relevant finance experience
- Has GCSE Maths and English (or equivalent)
- Has experience working within a finance function
- Is confident using finance systems and Microsoft Excel
- Has excellent numeracy, organisational and communication skills
- Can manage competing priorities and work accurately to deadlines
- Is professional, reliable and committed to teamwork
- Understands the importance of confidentiality and safeguarding
Experience within a school, academy or public sector environment and AAT Level 3 (or working towards) would be advantageous.
What We Offer
- A supportive and collaborative working environment
- Opportunities for training and professional development
- The chance to develop your knowledge of academy finance and education sector financial management
- A rewarding role supporting schools and young people across the Trust
About the Trust
The Learning Academies Trust is a family of 18 schools across Plymouth and surrounding areas, dedicated to delivering outstanding education to all our children, whatever their starting point or background. Our Trust’s mission is: Together we will… work with our children, families, and communities to provide exceptional learning opportunities for all our children.
As part of the trust, we will support you to learn and develop, providing outstanding CPD and opportunities for collaboration between schools within the trust sharing resources, expertise and knowledge. With 18 individual primary schools, the Learning Academies Trust is the largest primary school trust in Plymouth and the first education employer in Plymouth to achieve the Livewell Southwest Wellbeing at Work Bronze Award. The Trust is committed to supporting the wellbeing of all staff and is proud to work closely with official bodies to ensure we have a holistic approach to staff wellbeing.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and we expect all staff to share this commitment. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974; pre-employment checks will be carried out; references will be sought for all shortlisted candidates and all shortlisted candidates will be requested to complete a questionnaire about any convictions or adult cautions that are unspent. Guidance will be given to those shortlisted. Appointment is subject to an Enhanced DBS.
Finance Assistant in Plymouth employer: Learning Academies Trust
Learning Academies Trust is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture where finance professionals can thrive. Located in Plymouth, the Trust provides opportunities for professional growth and development, ensuring that employees are equipped with the skills needed to excel in their roles. With a strong commitment to safeguarding and a focus on teamwork, this role promises meaningful engagement in the education sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Assistant in Plymouth
✨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 Learning Academies Trust. 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 Plymouth
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 Learning Academies Trust.
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 Learning Academies Trust'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 Learning Academies Trust
✨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 Learning Academies Trust.
✨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 Learning Academies Trust 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 Learning Academies Trust 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.
