At a Glance
- Tasks: Support finance operations and provide high-quality administrative assistance in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Join Orchard Hill College & Academy Trust, a leader in inclusive education.
- Benefits: Enjoy career progression, pension schemes, employee wellbeing support, and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives while developing your skills in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in maths and English, with a passion for learning and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Be part of a recognised institution committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
St Dominic’s School is a highly regarded special school in Surrey, set within 56 acres of serene, wooded grounds offering plenty of space for recreational activities. The school caters to pupils and Sixth Form students aged 7 to 19, supporting a diverse range of academic abilities and complex needs. Our school is proud to offer a comprehensive range of in‑house therapeutic services, including Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Sensory Integration, all delivered by a team of qualified professionals. This extensive therapeutic support ensures that each student can access the curriculum at a level that suits their individual needs, helping them reach their full potential. Additionally, we provide purpose‑built medical facilities with qualified nursing staff on site every day. St Dominic’s has earned recognition for its commitment to excellence, achieving Advanced Autism Accreditation, the prestigious Arts Council ‘Artsmark’ Silver Award, and the prestigious Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM) which celebrates our commitment to excellence in primary science.
We are seeking to appoint a professional, well‑educated and enthusiastic individual to support the Finance Manager to ensure the smooth and efficient running of the finance function. Support teaching and learning by providing high quality administrative support as part of a committed and flexible administration team.
Key Responsibilities:
- Raising requisitions in Sage Intacct (training will be given).
- Assisting the Receptionist with receiving and checking off deliveries against requisitions.
- Matching up the POs, requisitions and delivery notes.
- Completing new supplier forms.
- Completing budget panel and Value for Money forms, in consultation with the Finance Manager.
- Entering petty cash claims into spreadsheet and scanning receipts.
- Maintaining Free School Meals records.
- Administering ParentPay system, recording amounts due and arranging necessary credits (training will be given).
- Understand and work within the Trust’s Financial Procedures.
- Liaise with the central finance team to resolve any purchase ordering queries.
- Deal with petty cash claims, ensuring paperwork is correct, reimbursing staff and submitting claims on the finance system.
Key Requirements:
- Good literacy and numeracy skills: to hold a minimum of GCSE (A‑C) or equivalent in maths and English.
- Training and/or qualification in administration / clerical or related activities to level 2 and working towards level 3.
- Ability to present information in a logical, clear and concise format and to communicate this effectively to colleagues, both verbally and in writing.
- Willingness and ability to learn new systems and skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Benefits:
- Pathways for progression within the trust, ensuring you can grow and thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Pension Scheme - you will be enrolled in either the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) or the Teachers' Pension Scheme (TPS), both offering life cover and financial protection for your family.
- Salary Sacrifice Schemes (Cycle Scheme and Home Electronics Scheme).
- Employee Wellbeing - We support employee wellbeing with access to counselling, mental health support, generous leave, flexible working, and enhanced parental leave including Employee Assistance Programme, MyGym Discounts, Corporate Eyecare Scheme.
- Employee Discounts (Blue Light Card, Costco Membership, Discounts for Teachers, and more).
- Other (Season Ticket Loan and Employee Referral Scheme).
Closing Date: November 01, 2026 at 11:59pm. Interviews will take place the following week.
Safeguarding Statement: Orchard Hill College and Academy Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Appointments made will be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. Orchard Hill College and Academy Trust is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer, committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace for all.
School Administrator and Finance Support employer: Orchard Hill College & Academy Trust
Contact Detail:
Orchard Hill College & Academy Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Administrator and Finance Support
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Orchard Hill College & Academy Trust on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s values and recent achievements. We want to show that we’re not just interested in the role, but also in being part of their mission to support students.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. We need to be confident in showcasing our skills and how they align with the responsibilities of the School Administrator and Finance Support role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can keep us fresh in their minds and shows our enthusiasm for the position. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why we’re the perfect fit!
We think you need these skills to ace School Administrator and Finance Support
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the School Administrator and Finance Support role. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that match the job description, especially in finance and administration.
Show Off Your Communication Skills: Since this role requires excellent interpersonal and communication skills, don’t shy away from showcasing these in your application. Use clear and concise language to demonstrate your ability to present information effectively.
Be Ready to Learn: Mention your willingness to learn new systems and skills, as training will be provided for specific tasks like using Sage Intacct and ParentPay. This shows that you’re adaptable and eager to grow within the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people and helps us keep track of all applicants efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at Orchard Hill College & Academy Trust
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the key responsibilities of the School Administrator and Finance Support role. Familiarise yourself with terms like 'Sage Intacct', 'petty cash claims', and 'ParentPay system'. This will show that you're serious about the position and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your literacy and numeracy skills, as well as your ability to communicate effectively. Think of situations where you've successfully presented information clearly or resolved queries, especially in an administrative context. This will help demonstrate your fit for the role.
✨Be Ready to Learn
Since the job involves learning new systems and skills, be prepared to discuss how you've adapted to new technologies or processes in the past. Share specific instances where you quickly picked up new tools or methods, showing your willingness to grow and develop.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
The role requires working closely with a flexible administration team. Be ready to talk about your experience in collaborative environments. Highlight how you've contributed to team success and supported colleagues, which is crucial in a school setting.