At a Glance
- Tasks: Support finance teams with administrative tasks and gain hands-on experience in finance.
- Company: Join a supportive family of 31 schools dedicated to excellence and collaboration.
- Benefits: Permanent position with training, career development, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Engage in a dynamic environment with opportunities for growth and professional development.
- Why this job: Kickstart your finance career while making a real impact in education.
- Qualifications: Motivated, organised, and keen to learn with good communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
As Finance Apprentice, you will work as part of the Finance Team, providing administrative and finance support to both the We ST Central Finance Team and local school finance teams.
Through training, guidance and supervision, you will develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to build a successful career in finance.
This role will involve supporting a range of finance and administrative activities including maintaining the Trust's finance systems, processing purchase and sales invoices, assisting with the ordering of goods and services, supporting supplier communications, undertaking bank and account reconciliations, assisting with payment processing, supporting VAT returns and procurement activities, reviewing financial records and reconciliations, supporting inter-school charge transfers, and contributing to the continuous improvement of finance processes across the Trust.
You will also provide general support to colleagues within both central and local finance teams, helping to ensure accurate and efficient financial administration.
- Your identity will be confirmed by sight of original, official documents such as a Birth Certificate, Passport etc. in line with the Asylum and Immigration Act 1996.
- Original documents relating to all the qualifications you have listed on your application form must be supplied.
- Your employment history will be thoroughly examined and clarification will be sought where there are gaps or other discrepancies arising from information provided either by you as the candidate or your referee.
- References will be used to check dates of employment and your relevant experience.
A minimum of two written references will be taken up and these references will be requested before the interview.
- References should cover the last 3-5 years' work history, as a minimum.
- An online search of shortlisted candidates will be conducted in accordance with Part Three 'Safer Recruitment' of Keeping Children Safe in Education statutory guidance.
- The identity of referees and information relating to disclosures will be verified.
- You will be required to provide details of any relevant unspent or spent convictions in accordance with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) (Amendment) Order 1986.
- An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be requested.
Please note that it is an offence to apply, offer or accept to do any work with children (paid or unpaid) if disqualified from working with children.
Applicants will be challenged where inconsistencies exist.
Please be aware that a firm offer of appointment will only be made after receipt and verification of all satisfactory checks.
Westcountry Schools Trust will carry out these checks and should you fail these checks, our offer of employment will be withdrawn.
We are seeking a motivated and organised Finance Apprentice to join our finance team based at Ivybridge Community College.
The post is offered on a permanent basis.
However, the role is designed around the completion of a finance apprenticeship pathway and candidates will be expected to fully engage with and successfully complete the required training and qualifications to progress within the position.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is looking to begin or develop a career in finance while gaining practical experience across a busy and supportive Trust environment.
The role will support specific We ST schools and the Trust as a whole, working within the Academy Trust Handbook and We ST Financial Procedures and Regulations to help ensure financial processes, deadlines and audit requirements are met.
We're seeking someone who is
- Keen to develop a career in finance and committed to ongoing learning and professional development.
- Organised, methodical and able to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.
- Able to work accurately and maintain confidentiality at all times.
- A confident communicator with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Self-motivated, able to use initiative and work effectively as part of a team.
- Computer literate, with a good working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
- Able to follow direction and work collaboratively with colleagues across multiple schools and teams.
- Committed to safeguarding, Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) and supporting Trust policies.
- Aligned with We ST's values of collaboration, aspiration, integrity, compassion and respect.
- Further details about the Trust can be found on our website (www. westst. org. uk) and on My New Term (https://mynewterm. com/trust/Westcountry-Schools-Trust/142688)
Whilst the indicative working pattern is full time, all year round, we are happy to discuss flexible working.
Westcountry Schools Trust (We ST) is a tight-knit family of 31 schools - 8 secondary and 23 primaries - working together across the Southwest.
We are ambitious for every child and committed to delivering excellence through collaboration, innovation and shared values.
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Finance Apprentice in Plymouth employer: Westcountry Schools Trust
Westcountry Schools Trust (WeST) is an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and collaborative work environment, ideal for those starting their career in finance. As a Finance Apprentice at Ivybridge Community College, you will benefit from comprehensive training and development opportunities, allowing you to gain practical experience while contributing to the financial success of our schools. Our commitment to professional growth, alongside our values of integrity, compassion, and respect, makes WeST a rewarding place to build your future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Apprentice in Plymouth
✨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 Westcountry Schools Trust. 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 Finance Apprentice in Plymouth
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 Westcountry Schools Trust.
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 Westcountry Schools Trust'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 Westcountry Schools Trust
✨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 Westcountry Schools Trust.
✨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 Westcountry Schools Trust 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 Westcountry Schools Trust 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.
