Finance manager

Finance Manager

Pay Range:Scale 6 Point 6 - 13 £29064-£32597 pro rata

4 days a week negotiable 29.6 hours per week 39 weeks (including 5 days in April)

Position Start Date:01/09/2026 Contract Type:Part-time Contract Term:Permanent

Application Close:18th June 2026 Midnight Date of Interviews:23rd June 2026

Shortlisting Starts:19/06/2026

Start date: 1st September 2026

Fairways Primary School is seeking to appoint a professional, highly organised and motivated Finance Manager to join our friendly and successful team.

Fairways Primary School is a 'Good' school with a dedicated and committed staff team. We pride ourselves on our supportive and welcoming environment, where colleagues work collaboratively and support one another to achieve the very best outcomes for our pupils.

The successful candidate will work closely with the Headteacher and Business Manager to manage the school's financial operations, including budget planning, monitoring and reporting. This is a varied role which also includes supporting the General Office on a weekly basis and providing Midday Assistant cover when required.

Key Responsibilities

Finance and Accountancy

Work alongside the Headteacher and School Business Manager on strategy, planning and policy Support the preparation and coordination of the school's annual budget Monitor budgets and produce regular financial reports for senior leaders and governors, attending meetings as required (some held outside normal working hours) Maintain accurate financial records, including income, expenditure and cost analysis Produce long-term financial forecasts and support project evaluations Prepare financial reports and contribute to income-generating activities Oversee purchasing processes, ensuring orders and deliveries are accurate and correctly allocated Check statements and authorise invoices in accordance with school procedures Advise on the effective use and management of school funds Identify and explore additional funding opportunities Take responsibility for payroll processes, including salaries, PAYE, NI and pension returns Maintain accounts in line with DfE requirements and submit returns to Southend Local Authority Complete monthly reconciliations across all financial systems Prepare payments (cheques/BACS) and ensure suppliers are paid promptly Produce annual accounts and liaise with auditors to meet deadlines Oversee bank accounts, VAT processes and cash handling procedures Manage the day-to-day running of the school fund Support procurement activities, including obtaining quotes in line with financial regulations Assist with financial planning for premises improvements and capital projects Personnel and Payroll

Ensure all staff are paid accurately and in line with current pay scales Manage payroll administration for appointments, changes and leavers Process payroll adjustments relating to absence and sickness Complete claim forms, overtime payments and additional duties documentation Respond to payroll queries and liaise with the payroll provider as required General Duties

Provide support within the General Office each week Provide Midday Assistant cover in the event of staff absence Maintain strict confidentiality at all times Attend relevant training sessions and meetings as required Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure smooth day-to-day operations Contribute positively to the ethos and wider life of the school Take part in performance management and professional development Comply with all relevant health and safety requirements Person Specification

The successful candidate will have:

Experience of financial management and budgeting (school experience desirable) Strong IT skills, particularly in Microsoft Excel and Word A good understanding of how schools operate Excellent communication and interpersonal skills The ability to work effectively in a busy environment and manage competing priorities A clear understanding of confidentiality and data protection Safeguarding

Fairways Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to share this commitment.

This post is subject to:

Enhanced DBS clearance Satisfactory references and medical checks Social media checks Disqualification declaration All appointments are made in line with safer recruitment procedures.

Our Commitment

Fairways Primary School is committed to:

Promoting equality of opportunity and valuing diversity Upholding fundamental British values, including mutual respect and tolerance

If you would like to visit the school or have any queries relating to the role please email:[email protected]

Telephone:01702 525693

Fairways is a two form entry primary school set in extensive beautiful grounds in Leigh on Sea that celebrates individuality, champions potential, and works tirelessly to ensure every pupil feels seen, supported, and valued. Our pupils love coming to school; they are respectful and learn in a kind, and calm place where they flourish in their learning and their relationships. In addition to our fourteen classes we have a speech and language resource base which is an integral part of the school; the resource base children are included in all aspects of school life, with some fully included in mainstream classes.

The governors and staff at Fairways believe that the school should provide a stimulating and challenging environment where a lifelong passion for learning is nurtured.

Fairways Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, medical clearance and satisfactory references.