At a Glance
- Tasks: Support finance operations, manage budgets, and oversee payroll processes.
- Company: The Swan School, a vibrant educational institution focused on community and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive pension scheme, flexible hours, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional development in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in the education sector.
- Qualifications: A-levels or equivalent; AAT Level 4 preferred; finance experience required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Join Our Team
About this Role
We are seeking a bright, enthusiastic, and organised professional to join us as our Assistant Finance Manager. This role is pivotal in supporting the School Business Manager and Headteacher to ensure smooth day‑to‑day finance operations.
What This Role Offers
- Salary and Grade: Grade 11
- Hours: 29.6 hours per week (0.8 FTE), term time plus 3 weeks (41.5 weeks per year)
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Location: The Swan School
- Reporting To: School Business Manager
About the Role
Your day‑to‑day highlights include:
- Budgeting and Strategy: Assist with annual budgets, monitor performance, and identify opportunities for financial efficiency.
- Core Finance Processes: Oversee month‑end duties, manage accounts payable and receivable, and handle bank and credit card reconciliations.
- Payroll Collaboration: Work closely with the School Business Manager and HR Manager to ensure monthly payroll runs accurately and smoothly.
- Community Connection: Communicate with parents regarding payments and financial support, and guide budget holders across the school.
- Team Leadership: Supervise and support the Finance Officer, fostering growth through guidance and regular appraisals.
Who We Are Looking For
- Education: A-level education or equivalent. AAT Level 4 qualification or working toward it is essential.
- Experience: A solid background in a finance department or accounting practice, with hands‑on experience managing control accounts, reconciliations, accruals, and prepayments.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Excel; experience with accounting packages used in the education sector is a plus.
- Aptitude: Ability to analyse data, solve problems creatively, work independently, and remain calm under pressure when deadlines approach.
If you have experience working specifically within a school environment, that is a beneficial bonus, but all we require is the right drive and core skills.
Benefits
- Enrolment in a competitive Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Access to a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme focused on wellbeing.
- Flexible working hours for the right candidate.
Legal and Safeguarding
River Learning Trust and The Swan School are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and preventing extremism. We conduct checks and online searches in accordance with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. We do not accept CVs.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion: We celebrate differences and are dedicated to building an inclusive environment where every colleague can thrive. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know so we can support you to be at your best.
Assistant Finance Manager at The Swan School in Oxford employer: The Swan School
The Swan School is an excellent employer that prioritises the wellbeing and professional growth of its staff. With a supportive work culture, flexible hours, and access to a competitive Local Government Pension Scheme, employees are encouraged to thrive in their roles while contributing to the educational community. The school fosters an inclusive environment where every team member can develop their skills and make a meaningful impact on students' lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Finance Manager at The Swan School in Oxford
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like The Swan School. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Finance Manager at The Swan School in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to The Swan School.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on The Swan School's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Swan School
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with The Swan School.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at The Swan School will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former The Swan School employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
