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- Tasks: Join us as a CIPFA Trainee and gain hands-on experience in public finance.
- Company: Be part of Oxfordshire County Council, dedicated to positive change and community wellbeing.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, up to 33 days holiday, and great learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in public finance while making a real difference in your community.
- Qualifications: Must be under 22 with a relevant degree or AAT Level 4 qualification.
- Other info: We value diversity and offer guaranteed interviews for eligible applicants.
The predicted salary is between 31537 - 40777 £ per year.
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £31537 - £40777
Working Hours: 37
Location: Oxfordshire
Business Unit: Financial & Commercial Services
About Us
Oxfordshire County Council is committed to leading positive change and making Oxfordshire a greener, fairer, and healthier county. We work in partnership with local communities, public sector organisations, and businesses to deliver high-quality services that support the wellbeing and prosperity of our residents. Our vision is underpinned by a set of clear priorities, including environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and continuous improvement in public services. Oxfordshire is proud of its diverse communities. We are dedicated to promoting equality, supporting vulnerable people, and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Our teams are passionate about innovation, collaboration, and making a real difference for the people who live and work here. Join us and be part of an organisation that values learning, kindness, integrity, and the courage to do things differently.
About the Role
Join Oxfordshire County Council as a CIPFA Level 7 Apprentice and work towards Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) membership. This role offers structured placements across finance areas such as corporate finance, business partnering, and operations, giving you hands-on experience while you study. You’ll gain experience in financial planning, reporting, and projects, developing technical and professional skills that underpin a successful career in public finance. To be eligible for the apprenticeship, applicants must be 21 years of age or below before commencement of studies in September 2026 (based on central government funding criteria), hold a relevant degree or AAT Level 4 qualification, and demonstrate strong numeracy, analytical ability, and clear communication skills.
About you
You’re eager to build a career in public finance and committed to completing the CIPFA Level 7 Apprenticeship. You meet the eligibility criteria (including being under 22 years of age before studies commence, based on central government funding criteria), holding a relevant degree or AAT Level 4 qualification, and have strong numeracy, analytical, and communication skills. You can manage time effectively, balance study with work, and produce clear, accurate written work. Proficient in IT and spreadsheets, you work well independently and as part of a team, showing professionalism, integrity, and a logical approach to problem solving. Experience in finance or business is desirable, but your willingness to learn and uphold our values of responsibility, inclusion, and innovation is essential.
Rewards and benefits
- Culture of flexible working
- Technology to support agile working where role permits
- Up to 33 day’s holiday p.a. plus bank holidays
- Option to ‘buy’ additional holiday
- Employee Assistance Programme including access to health and wellbeing support
- Membership of the Local Government contributory pension scheme, with an employer’s contribution of up to 19.9%
- Enhanced family friendly policies
- Local and national discounts for shopping and travel
- Great learning and development opportunities to support your ongoing development.
Our commitment to: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
At Oxfordshire County Council we are proud of our diverse workforce. Everyone is accepted for who they are, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, race, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, or on maternity or family leave. We have a number of staff network groups which provide peer support, education and safe spaces for all.
Our commitment to: Guaranteed Interview Schemes
As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview for disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the job. We also guarantee interviews to care leavers who have completed further education and who meet the essential criteria for the job. For those leaving care without any further education, we guarantee an interview for our apprenticeships. We are also committed to helping and supporting those transitioning from HM Armed Forces to civilian life and guarantee an interview for those demonstrating the essential criteria for the role, within three years of leaving the service.
Our commitment to: Safeguarding
Oxfordshire County Council are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect these commitments.
Our commitment to: Flexible Working
We are open to discussions about flexible working, which can include flexi-time, part time working, job sharing, nine-day fortnights and annualised hours, depending on the requirements of the role and the service.
Please note that the vacancy may be closed earlier than the application deadline depending on the number of applications received. Interviews: Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an applicant day in April.
CIPFA Trainee - OX1 1NT in Oxford employer: Oxfordshire County Council
Contact Detail:
Oxfordshire County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land CIPFA Trainee - OX1 1NT in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the finance sector, especially those who work at Oxfordshire County Council. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching the council's values and recent projects. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also in making a difference in the community. It’s all about aligning with our mission!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Whether it’s through mock interviews or casual conversations, being able to articulate your thoughts clearly is key. We want to see your passion for public finance shine through.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our commitment to equality and inclusion.
We think you need these skills to ace CIPFA Trainee - OX1 1NT in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and priorities of Oxfordshire County Council. Highlight your commitment to public finance and how your skills align with their mission of making Oxfordshire a greener and fairer place.
Showcase Your Skills: Clearly demonstrate your strong numeracy, analytical ability, and communication skills in your written application. Use specific examples from your experience to illustrate how you meet the eligibility criteria and can contribute to the team.
Be Professional and Clear: Ensure your written work is clear, accurate, and professional. This is your chance to show that you can manage time effectively and produce high-quality work, which is essential for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people and shows you’re serious about joining us at Oxfordshire County Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfordshire County Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a CIPFA Trainee and the key responsibilities involved. Brush up on financial concepts, public finance principles, and the specific areas you'll be working in, like corporate finance and business partnering. This will show your enthusiasm and readiness to dive into the role.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your strong numeracy, analytical ability, and communication skills. Think of situations where you've successfully managed time or solved problems, as these are crucial for the role. Be ready to discuss how your background aligns with the values of responsibility, inclusion, and innovation.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the apprenticeship structure, team dynamics, or the council's commitment to sustainability and community engagement. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
Remember, they want to see the real you! Emphasise your willingness to learn and adapt, and don’t hesitate to share your passion for public finance. Authenticity can set you apart from other candidates, so let your personality shine through during the interview.
