Accounts / Finance Assistant

Accounts / Finance Assistant

Full-Time 26000 - 29000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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Oxford High School

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support financial operations by managing purchase orders, payments, and reconciliations.
  • Company: Join Oxford High School, a leading independent school with a strong values-led culture.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salaries, professional development, free lunches, and discounts for children at GDST schools.
  • Why this job: Be part of a close-knit team in a supportive environment that values accuracy and collaboration.
  • Qualifications: Experience in finance or accountancy is essential; AAT study support available for the right candidate.
  • Other info: This is an office-based role; remote work is not an option.

The predicted salary is between 26000 - 29000 £ per year.

Salary: £26,000 - £29,000 pa depending on experience.

Location: Oxford

Contract: Full time

Hours: Permanent

Looking for a meaningful finance role? Join us at Oxford High School and apply your expertise in accounts payable, reconciliations and financial reporting to support the smooth and efficient running of a leading independent school.

We are looking for a detail-focused, proactive finance professional to join our team as Accounts Payable / Finance Assistant. This fully on-site role offers the chance to apply your skills in a well-run, values-led school environment, where accuracy, collaboration and high standards are central to the way we work.

As part of a close-knit finance team, you will work alongside the Finance Manager to help ensure the school's financial systems run smoothly. From managing purchase orders and processing payments to preparing bank reconciliations and supporting staff with queries, your work will directly contribute to the operational success of the school. This role is office based and not suitable for remote working.

About you

We are seeking someone with experience in a finance or accountancy setting, ideally with knowledge of purchase ledger, general ledger and bank reconciliations. You will be confident using accounting software and spreadsheets, well organised, and able to communicate clearly with colleagues at all levels. If you are working towards or part-qualified with AAT, we are happy to offer study support.

Why work at Oxford High School

Oxford High School is part of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), the UK’s leading group of independent girls’ schools. Located on Belbroughton Road in North Oxford, our school enjoys a beautiful setting just two miles from the city centre, with excellent local amenities and transport links. We’re proud of our warm, inclusive atmosphere and strong sense of purpose — and we offer a professional yet welcoming working environment where staff are valued and supported.

Benefits include:

  • Competitive salaries and pay progression
  • Access to extensive professional development
  • AAT study support (for the right candidate)
  • Generous pension schemes
  • Free life assurance
  • Free school lunches
  • Up to 50% discount on fees for children at GDST schools
  • Interest-free loans for training, computers and season tickets
  • Cycle to Work scheme
  • Competitive terms and conditions of employment

For further details and to apply please click the apply button. The closing date for applications is Sunday 22nd June 2025 at 23:59. We reserve the right to interview candidates as and when suitable applications are submitted. Early applications are advisable.

The GDST is committed to diversity, inclusion and real change: a family where every individual is valued, respected and included. We are committed to the safeguarding of children and child protection screening and online checks will apply to this post.

Oxford High School

Contact Detail:

Oxford High School Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Accounts / Finance Assistant

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific accounting software mentioned in the job description. If you have experience with similar tools, be ready to discuss how your skills can transfer to their systems.

✨Tip Number 2

Highlight your attention to detail and organisational skills during any conversations or interviews. Prepare examples from your past experiences where these traits led to successful outcomes in finance roles.

✨Tip Number 3

Research Oxford High School and the Girls' Day School Trust to understand their values and culture. Be prepared to articulate how your personal values align with theirs, as this will show your genuine interest in the role.

✨Tip Number 4

Network with current or former employees of Oxford High School if possible. This can provide you with insider knowledge about the work environment and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.

We think you need these skills to ace Accounts / Finance Assistant

Accounts Payable Management
Bank Reconciliation
Purchase Ledger Knowledge
General Ledger Understanding
Financial Reporting
Attention to Detail
Proficiency in Accounting Software
Spreadsheet Skills
Organisational Skills
Effective Communication
Problem-Solving Skills
Team Collaboration
Time Management
Adaptability
AAT Part-Qualified or Working Towards Qualification

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in finance or accountancy. Emphasise your skills in accounts payable, reconciliations, and financial reporting, as these are key aspects of the role.

Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your attention to detail and proactive approach. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed financial tasks in previous roles, and express your enthusiasm for working in a school environment.

Highlight Software Proficiency: Clearly state your experience with accounting software and spreadsheets in both your CV and cover letter. This is crucial for the role, so be specific about the tools you’ve used and your level of expertise.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, as accuracy is essential in finance roles. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.

How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford High School

✨Know Your Numbers

Brush up on your knowledge of accounts payable, reconciliations, and financial reporting. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your expertise in these areas.

✨Familiarise Yourself with Accounting Software

Since the role requires confidence in using accounting software, make sure you are familiar with the tools mentioned in the job description. If possible, practice using similar software to showcase your adaptability during the interview.

✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail

As a detail-focused role, be ready to provide examples of how you've ensured accuracy in your previous work. Discuss any processes you have implemented to minimise errors and improve efficiency.

✨Showcase Your Communication Skills

The role involves collaborating with colleagues at all levels, so be prepared to discuss how you effectively communicate complex financial information. Share examples of how you've supported team members or resolved queries in the past.

Accounts / Finance Assistant
Oxford High School
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