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- Tasks: Support Lewisham's Looked After Children by managing educational data and finances.
- Company: Join a passionate team dedicated to improving educational outcomes for vulnerable children.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, flexible working, and great staff discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills in education and finance.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and a passion for education are essential.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive network focused on equality and safeguarding.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Make a Difference to the Educational Journey of Lewisham's Looked After Children. Lewisham Virtual School is seeking a highly organised, detail-driven Administrator and Finance Officer to play a key role in improving outcomes for those children supported by the Virtual School, including Children Looked After (CLA) and those with a social worker. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about education, data integrity, efficient systems, and ensuring that every child receives the support they need to thrive.
As the Virtual School Administrator and Finance Officer, you will be responsible for maintaining and developing the systems that track the movement, educational progress, school attendance and attainment of Lewisham's Looked After Children. You will act as the first point of contact for education-related enquiries and ensure that accurate, timely information supports positive educational placements for all CLA. A significant part of the role involves financial management, including the processing, monitoring and reporting of the Pupil Premium Grant (PPG) and Virtual School budgets. You will ensure financial accountability, support strategic allocation of funding, and communicate effectively with stakeholders across education and social care.
Data & Information Management
- Maintain the accuracy and integrity of Virtual School databases.
- Manage educational data for all children when they enter care and throughout their time in care.
- Develop and improve database systems to meet evolving needs.
- Produce reports, minute taking, data extracts and performance information as required.
Support & Coordination
- Act as a first point of contact for schools, social care, carers, and members of the public regarding education for Looked After Children.
- Provide general advice on educational matters affecting CLA.
- Liaise with internal and external partners, including schools, SEN services, admissions and social care teams.
- Provide administrative support to the Headteacher and broader Virtual School team.
- Assist with the delivery of training and programmes for teachers and professionals.
Finance & Resource Management
- Process financial transactions, ensuring accurate records across all budgets.
- Manage and monitor Pupil Premium Grant allocations, ensuring correct procedures are followed.
- Oversee procurement, team expenses, petty cash, and office resource allocation.
- Provide specialist advice to a range of stakeholders on best use of the PPG.
- Support the Headteacher in monitoring and forecasting Virtual School budgets.
- Supervise temporary staff or administrative support when required.
Qualifications
- Strong organisational and administrative skills with excellent attention to detail.
- Experience managing databases and handling sensitive information.
- A good understanding of educational systems or a willingness to learn quickly.
- Confidence with financial processes and managing budgets.
- Clear, confident communication skills and the ability to build positive relationships with a range of stakeholders.
- Ability to work independently, manage a busy workload and respond to changing priorities.
- Commitment to equality, equity, safeguarding and improving the life chances of Looked After Children.
Benefits
- Generous holiday allowance.
- Local Government Pension scheme.
- Flexible working and family friendly policies.
- Season ticket and bicycle loans.
- A range of staff discounts including local subsidised gym memberships.
- Supportive staff networks.
Virtual School Administrator and Finance Officer employer: Lewisham
Contact Detail:
Lewisham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Virtual School Administrator and Finance Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those involved with looked after children. Attend local events or webinars to make connections and show your passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Virtual School's initiatives and values. Be ready to discuss how your skills can directly impact the educational journey of Lewisham's looked after children.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your organisational skills! Bring examples of how you've managed databases or financial processes in previous roles. This will demonstrate your attention to detail and ability to handle sensitive information.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Virtual School Administrator and Finance Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with educational systems and financial management. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Virtual School Administrator and Finance Officer, so don’t hold back!
Show Your Passion: Let us know why you’re passionate about supporting Looked After Children. Share any relevant experiences or motivations that drive you to make a difference in their educational journey. We love hearing personal stories!
Be Detail-Driven: Since this role requires excellent attention to detail, ensure your application is free from typos and errors. We appreciate clarity and precision, so double-check everything before hitting send!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands quickly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lewisham
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the role of a Virtual School Administrator and Finance Officer. Familiarise yourself with the specific responsibilities mentioned in the job description, especially around data management and financial processes. This will help you speak confidently about how your skills align with their needs.
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for supporting Looked After Children. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to education and improving outcomes for vulnerable children. This personal touch can really resonate with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle sensitive information. Think of examples from your past where you've successfully managed databases or financial records, and be ready to discuss how you approached challenges in those situations.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the current systems they use for tracking educational progress or how they measure success for Looked After Children. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand their priorities better.