If you are interested in this role, please read the 'How to Apply' section
Are you a detail orientated individual looking to grow your career in finance? Do you want to make a difference in the education sector? The Rowan Learning Trust are seeking to appoint a dedicated Finance Assistant to join our dynamic central team. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to work within a supportive team environment and contribute to the success and stability of our Trust.
About us
The Rowan Learning Trust is a multi-academy trust based in the North-West of England. Our trust is currently made up of 12 schools based cross Wigan, Bury, Knowsley, Lancashire and Cheshire West & Chester. Our trust is built on the firm belief that everyone can reach their full potential wherever they are in our community.
We are an education charity. Our schools work collaboratively, as one entity, to improve and maintain high educational standards across the whole organisation. We are built on a foundation of strong values that underpin our philosophy: Kindness, Respect and Integrity.
The role: Finance Assistant
Location: Goose Green, Wigan, Greater Manchester
Working hours: 37 hours per week, term time plus two additional weeks
Grade: Grade 4 (SCP 5-8)
Salary: £25,583 - £26,824 (pro-rata), actual salary £22,469 - £23,559
Key Responsibilities:
Financial Management
- Process purchase orders, invoices, and staff expense claims
- Post credit card transactions
- Prepare bulk requisitions for expected budget costs (e.g. utilities, phones)
- Support accounts receivable including raising invoices and chasing outstanding payments
- Reconcile incoming payments
- Investigate and recover unpaid sales invoices
- Liaise with schools regarding trips, music services, events, and charity income collection and banking
Financial Reporting and Analysis
- Provide regular and timely cost centre reports to budget holders
- Assist with month-end procedures, including reconciliations and preparation of schedules
- Undertake month-end review of outstanding purchase orders
- Input departmental charges (e.g. reprographics) when required
Liaison and Communication
- Liaise with schools to confirm receipt of goods and services
- Communicate with external suppliers regarding orders, invoices, and queries
- Work closely with schools on income collection activities
- Build and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues and external partners
- Attend relevant meetings and training sessions
Administration and Compliance
- Deputise for the Finance Officer when required
- Undertake general finance administration duties (e.g. post handling)
- Maintain confidentiality at all times
- Comply with safeguarding, data protection, health and safety, and other organisational policies
- Support equality, diversity, and inclusion principles
- Contribute to the overall ethos and aims of the Trust
- Participate in training, performance management, and professional development
- Carry out additional duties appropriate to the role as required
About You:
Essential skills and experience
- GCSEs in English and Maths (Grade C or above) or equivalent
- Previous financial background with knowledge of banking procedures, purchase and sales orders, and invoice processing
- Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
- Strong organisational skills and a methodical approach to tasks
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
- Professional approach with a keen eye for detail
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Flexibility in day-to-day working patterns
- Commitment to maintaining confidentiality
- Enthusiasm for the work and a sense of humour
- Empathy with children
Desirable skills and experience
- Experience in creating and updating financial spreadsheets
- Working knowledge of IT packages for statistical and financial data presentation
- Experience in a local government financial environment
- Knowledge of education finance software
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a Trust that is dedicated to making a difference for its students and staff
- This is an impactful role - you will play a vital part in supporting our schools and helping to make a difference in education
- Every day is different, with a range of challenges to keep you engaged
- Local government pension scheme with generous employer contribution rates
- Support for further qualifications and your CPD
- A network of staff for sharing best practices
- A growing organisation with plenty of future career development opportunities
How to apply
Due to safer recruitment practices, we can only accept applications from candidates who have completed our application form. The application form, job description and person specification can be found at The Rowan Learning Trust: VACANCIES. We will not accept applications from candidates who haven't completed this.
If you have any questions, please contact Rebecca Worthington ([email protected]).
Please ensure that applications are submitted by 11.59pm on Sunday 12th July 2026. Interview date TBC, start date as soon as possible.
The Rowan Learning Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and requires all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. References will be taken up for all shortlisted candidates prior to interview. The successful applicant will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS Disclosure.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £13.26-£13.90 per hour
Benefits:
- Bereavement leave
- Company pension
- Enhanced maternity leave
- Free parking
- Health & wellbeing programme
- On-site parking
- Sick pay
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Wigan, Greater Manchester: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Education:
- GCSE or equivalent (preferred)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (preferred)
Work Location: In person
