At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage school finances, process invoices, and handle queries with a focus on efficiency.
- Company: Join Sapientia Education Trust, a growing multi-academy trust dedicated to student success.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, AAT training support, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with potential for career growth and learning.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your finance skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance, strong communication skills, and GCSEs in Maths and English.
Location: Wymondham
Salary: £26,403 - £31,022 per annum (Plus pending national pay award)
Vacancy Type: Permanent, Full time
Hours: 37 hours per week
Closing Date: 14th June 2026
Sapientia Education Trust is an expanding multi-academy trust, with 13 primary and 9 secondary schools. We are seeking to recruit an enthusiastic and experienced Finance Officer to join our school-based Finance Team. The finance operation is based across our schools, with this role based at our SET Central Hub at Wymondham College. Our students are at the heart of everything that we do, and working in our finance team is no exception. We are looking for someone with a shared passion for enriching the lives of our learners through a continued commitment to delivery of high-quality service and guidance to our staff. This post offers an opportunity to work in the growing finance team with responsibility for the whole school finance function - processing invoices, dealing with supplier, customer and parent queries, statement reconciliations for various schools and the wider trust.
The ideal candidate will possess strong team working skills, the ability to communicate effectively with a variety of staff and be a resilient problem solver. Support and funding for AAT training will be offered should the post holder wish to undertake professional qualifications.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
- Be a flexible and enthusiastic team player that is adaptable and resilient in managing and executing their daily responsibilities;
- Have good communication skills in person and in writing to respond to staff, students and outside agencies whilst maintaining confidentiality;
- Be organised and able to manage, plan and complete daily and weekly tasks in a busy office environment;
- Be familiar with the use of, or prepared to learn how to use, a variety of IT Systems (including Sage Intacct).
Qualifications and Experience
- Experience of working in a busy finance environment;
- Previous purchase/sales ledger experience;
- Maths and English GCSEs grade 4-9;
- AAT qualified or currently studying (desirable).
JOB SPECIFICATION
General Responsibilities
The Finance Officer is responsible for the maintenance of the school’s finance system and records in accordance with the Trust’s Financial Rules & Procedures. Ensuring that the school’s transactional finance is delivered in an efficient and effective manner to meet the school needs. Staff may look after more than one school and this is subject to change based on the evolving needs of each of the Trust’s schools. The post holder will have access to and be responsible for confidential information and documentation. They must ensure confidential or sensitive material is handled appropriately and accurately. The post holder shall participate in the Trust’s programme of Performance Management and Continuing Professional Development; and The post-holder will be required to comply with the Trusts Code of Conduct for Staff and Volunteers.
Specific Responsibilities
- Act as the primary point of contact for all finance queries for relevant school(s);
- Process school orders ensuring compliance with the Trust’s Financial Rules and Procedures;
- Process invoices received ensuring correct authorisation of expenditure;
- Produce payment files & reconciling to the outstanding invoices;
- Reconcile supplier statements to accounting records, including leading on one or more Trust wide supplier account as account champion;
- Reconciling school bank accounts, credit cards and any petty cash held;
- Raise relevant school sales invoices;
- Manage the schools online payment system (e.g. ParentPay or Wisepay);
Please note: For further information and requirements, please click the link below.
To Apply
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Sapientia, please click apply to be redirected to their website to complete your application.
Locations
Finance Officer in Norfolk, Wymondham employer: Sapientia Education Trust
Sapientia Education Trust is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment at our Wymondham College Central Hub. We prioritise the professional growth of our staff, offering funding for AAT training and opportunities to engage in meaningful work that directly impacts the lives of our students. Join us to be part of a passionate team committed to delivering high-quality financial services within a dynamic multi-academy trust.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Officer in Norfolk, Wymondham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who might know about openings at Sapientia Education Trust. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the trust and its schools. Knowing their values and how they operate will help you tailor your answers and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common finance officer interview questions with a friend or in front of a mirror. This will help you articulate your experience and skills clearly, making you more confident when it’s your turn to shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Officer in Norfolk, Wymondham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Finance Officer role. We want to see your passion for finance and how you can contribute to our team!
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since you'll be dealing with various staff and queries, it's essential to demonstrate your communication prowess in your written application. Use clear and concise language to show us you can convey information effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to mention any previous experience in a busy finance environment or with purchase/sales ledgers. We love seeing candidates who have hands-on experience that can benefit our finance team!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sapientia Education Trust
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your finance knowledge, especially around purchase and sales ledgers. Be ready to discuss your previous experience in a busy finance environment and how you've handled invoices and reconciliations.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since the role requires strong team working skills, think of examples where you've collaborated effectively with others. Highlight your adaptability and resilience in managing daily responsibilities within a team setting.
✨Communicate Clearly
Prepare to demonstrate your communication skills. You might be asked how you would handle queries from staff or parents, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly and maintaining confidentiality in sensitive situations.
✨Get Tech-Savvy
Familiarise yourself with IT systems like Sage Intacct, or at least show your willingness to learn. Mention any relevant software experience you have and how quickly you can adapt to new technologies.