Finance Assistant (Willingdon Community School)

Hours of work: 20 per week.
Working pattern: Part-time term-time only (working for42 weeks per year plus6.51weeks annual leave which will increase after 5 years continuous service)
As the position is part-time/term-time only the above salary will be pro rata.

Fixed term for: 12 months.

Closing date: Monday 1 June 2026

For more information and to apply for the above post please contact:

Willingdon Community School
Broad Road
Lower Willingdon
BN20 9QX
Phone:
Email:
Website: Willingdon Community School

How to apply:
To apply for this post please download and complete the application form from the school website: or e-mail:

About the role:

• 1-year Fixed term/Term time only/20 hours per week/5 hours per day 4 days per week /39 weeks per year plus 3 weeks in school holidays (paid for 48.51 weeks per year to include holiday entitlement)

• Actual pro rata salary range is 13069* - 13277* per annum (*pay award pending)

• Start date September 2026

We are seeking a highly organised and detail-oriented Finance Assistant to join our school team. Working 20 hours per week (term time only plus 3 weeks in the school holidays) you will provide efficient financial and administrative support to the Head of Finance and Health & Safety ensuring accurate financial records are maintained and that school financial systems policies and procedures comply with Local Authority and Department for Education requirements.

The role includes supporting budget management processing income and expenditure preparing financial reports and reconciliations administering school payment systems and assisting with statutory returns and audit requirements. The successful candidate will also provide advice and support on financial matters and deputise for the Head of Finance when required.

Applicants should have experience in finance administration budget monitoring reconciliations and financial reporting along with excellent IT skills including Microsoft 365 and financial management systems and strong organisational skills are essential. A recognised accounting qualification or experience within an educational setting is desirable.

We are looking for someone with a calm and professional manner excellent attention to detail strong organisational skills and the ability to work independently using initiative. The successful candidate will be flexible proactive able to manage a varied workload competing priorities and committed to maintaining confidentiality and work effectively both independently and as part of a team supporting the wider school community. Must also hold a valid UK driving licence.

A rewarding opportunity to contribute to the smooth financial operation of a supportive and professional school environment.

Our Vision Statement:

We are Willingdon

We are a united vibrant community which demonstrates personal excellence in all that we do. Learning at Willingdon transforms lives by igniting curiosity and expecting the very best from staff and students alike. We value opportunities aiming for success today to prepare for challenges and opportunities tomorrow. We are respectful compassionate and courteous to empower each other on our unique learning journeys. We look after ourselves and each other and show empathy respect and compassion to all people and our environment along the way. We encourage tolerance resilience and reflection which in turn allows everyone to make progress every lesson. We work together as a harmonious community to be the very best versions of ourselves.

This makes us Willingdon.

Staff wellbeing is of paramount importance to us at Willingdon Community School. We can offer the successful candidate:

• A clear purpose. We are here to develop personal excellence and help staff and students be the very best versions of themselves.

• Lots of opportunities to observe others and feedback. We dont grade lessons and feedback is developmental.

• Regular opportunities for staff voice directly to the Headteacher.

• On appointment a full induction day is arranged to ensure you are supported with the transition to your new role.

• 50% off Benenden Health Care scheme.

• Opportunity to join Bupa Dental Plan which provides varying contributions to NHS and private dental services.

• Regular Mindfulness sessions to enhance your work-life balance.

• We offer Mental Health First Aid to all staff which is a two day qualification.

• An Employee Assistance Programme via the County Council this service is provided by PAM Wellness they offer advice information emotional support and counselling.

• Annual Flu Vaccination is provided in the autumn term and paid for by the school.

• Access to the ESCC My Staff Shop which gives access to a wide range of tax efficient benefits and discounts from national and local businesses.

• The Love 2 shop membership card (linked to My Staff Shop) is a reloadable gift card which can be spent at a number of major retailers.

• Bike Scheme this is a salary sacrifice scheme that produces a saving of up to 32% compared to buying a bike upfront.

• A free coffee machine is ready for you during break and lunch time.

• Invitations to whole school social events such as our Christmas party which is subsidised as a thank you to staff and other gatherings to celebrate success.

• Local business discounts for Willingdon Community School staff.

• And more!
  

We believe that happy staff make happy children and therefore do our utmost to support our staff.

Willingdon Community School is committed to child protection/safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children we expect all staff and volunteers to share this duty of care. All applicants will be subject to safer recruitment procedures and will require satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.

We advise applying promptly for our vacancies as we reserve the right to close and interview early if sufficient suitable applications have been received.

Interview details will be sent to shortlisted candidates only.