School Finance and Operations Officer

This varied and rewarding role combines financial management with wider operational responsibilities. Key duties include:

• Managing budget monitoring, reconciliation, forecasting and year-end procedures
• Supporting Headteacher and Governors with budget planning and reporting
• Managing payroll, salary modelling and staffing cost analysis
• Processing invoices, accounts payable/receivable and grant funding
• Leading HR administration including contracts, recruitment checks and payroll liaison
• Supporting safeguarding compliance through Staff Poms, Single Central Record and safer recruitment
• Supporting census returns, insurance, traded services and GDPR compliance
This role would suit someone who thrives on organisation, accuracy and responsibility, and who enjoys contributing to the wider success of a school community.

We are seeking a highly organised, proactive and trustworthy Finance Officer to join our dedicated team at Roundwood Primary School. This is a pivotal role supporting the Headteacher, Senior Leadership Team and Governors through effective financial management, payroll oversight, HR administration, safeguarding compliance and strategic budget planning. We are looking for someone with relevant and demonstrable experience of working within school finance or a closely related education finance environment, with a sound understanding of the financial procedures, systems and regulatory requirements that apply within a school setting. The successful candidate will have the knowledge and confidence to manage day-to-day financial processes accurately and efficiently, while also contributing to effective budget monitoring, financial forecasting and longer-term financial planning. Working within our supportive school family, you will play a central role in ensuring the smooth operational and financial running of our school. You will need to be able to work independently, manage competing priorities and deadlines, maintain the highest levels of confidentiality and accuracy, and provide reliable financial information and advice to senior leaders and Governors. We are particularly keen to appoint an experienced individual who can bring strong school finance knowledge, excellent attention to detail and a proactive approach to the role, and who understands the importance of robust financial management in supporting the best possible outcomes for our pupils.,
• Have relevant and demonstrable experience of working in school finance, budgeting or school business administration - this is an essential requirement for the role.
• Be confident and experienced in using school financial management systems (FMS), Excel and SIMS (or equivalent systems).
• Have a good working understanding of payroll, HR processes, budget monitoring and financial reporting within a school or education setting.
• Demonstrate excellent organisational, communication and administrative skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
• Maintain the highest standards of confidentiality, professionalism and integrity at all times.
• Have an understanding of safeguarding, GDPR and relevant compliance processes; specific training and updates can be provided where required.
• Be able to work independently and use initiative, while also contributing positively and collaboratively to the wider school team.
• Demonstrate strong attention to detail, accuracy and the ability to meet important financial and administrative deadlines.
Due to the nature and responsibilities of this position, relevant experience in school-based finance and financial administration is considered essential rather than simply desirable. Experience of school-based HR and wider business support would also be a significant advantage.

At Roundwood Primary School, our children are at the heart of everything we do. We pride ourselves on nurturing positive relationships, creating a caring environment and ensuring every child thrives both academically and personally. Our school community is built on collaboration, ambition and support, where staff are valued and empowered to make a real difference. We are a welcoming, close-knit team who work together to shape confident, happy learners and future citizens. Although this is primarily an administrative and finance role, we believe every adult in our school contributes to the success and wellbeing of our children.