Finance Assistant

Start Date: Urgent
Hours/days: reduced hours over 5 days may be considered

We are seeking a highly organised and motivated Finance Assistant to join our clients busy Finance Team. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the effective financial management of a prestigious School while being part of a collaborative and supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities as the Finance Assistant:

• Preparing fee bills and processing all charges and discounts to student accounts
• Managing credit control, including chasing payments where necessary
• Daily management and recording of all bank account transactions
• Monthly closing and reporting of fees ledger, bank, and associated income and expenditure accounts
• Managing and recording petty cash
• Carrying out banking functions
• Responding to queries from parents, staff, and students in a professional and timely manner
• Assisting the Finance Director with monthly and year-end analyses and reports, including audit preparation
• Working as part of the Finance Team to provide efficient support and handling ad hoc tasks as requested by the Finance Director or Head of Finance and Resources

The person:

• A financial qualification (or working towards one, e.g. AAT) is desirable
• Experience in a school finance office is advantageous
• Strong digital literacy is essential, including proficiency with spreadsheets and accounting packages (ideally iFinance and ParentPay)
• Strong organisational skills and a methodical approach
• Clear and effective communication skills
• High levels of professionalism, integrity, and confidentiality
• Strong personal and professional conduct with the ability to build positive working relationships
• Team player with empathy towards students, parents, and colleagues
• Commitment to student wellbeing and safeguarding

Benefits:

• A supportive community with a focus on staff wellbeing and work-life balance
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth
• Free car parking and close proximity to Reading Railway Station (20-minute walk)
• Complimentary refreshments and three-course lunches provided year-round
• Weekly Friday cake breaks
• Free use of the School''s swimming pool and gym facilities
• Access to clubs and activities including history society, book club, yoga, and choir
• Enhanced maternity leave and a generous Occupational Sick Pay Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme, including confidential counselling and occupational health support
• Fee concessions for children of Abbey students
• Staff accommodation (subject to availability) for those relocating
• Annual flu jab on-site and personal accident cover