Job title: Finance Officer
Working hours: from 22.2 hours per week (open to discussion)
Working days: to be discussed at interview
Working weeks: Ideal working weeks would be 41 (term time only + INSET + 2 weeks in the holidays) however this is open to negotiation.
Location: CSET Partnership Centre, Marlwood School. With regular travel to The Castle School.
Salary: £32,597 FTE (CSET 8) (to be prorated depending on agreed hours)
About the Role
We're looking for a proactive and detail-driven Finance Officer to join our central finance team at Marlwood School Education Trust (CSET). In this hub-based role, you'll support a group of schools by delivering high-quality financial guidance and operational support. You'll be based in the partnership centre, with regular travel to The Castle School, just down the road.
Working under the direction of the Finance Partner, you'll be involved in key financial processes including month-end and year-end activities, budget monitoring, and compliance reporting. You'll also assist with school fund reconciliation, trip costing, charge card administration, and accounts payable—ensuring everything runs smoothly and in line with Trust policies and Department for Education guidance.
This is a varied and rewarding role where you'll build strong relationships with school staff, support financial decision-making, and contribute to our shared ambition: delivering a great education for every child.
About You
You're organised, personable, and thrive in a fast-paced environment. You bring a high level of professionalism and discretion to everything you do, and you're confident in managing competing priorities with accuracy and care.
We're looking for someone who:
* Has a good general education (GCSE grade 4 or above in Maths and English or equivalent)
* Is AAT qualified or willing to work towards a similar qualification
* Has experience in a finance-related role (education sector experience is a plus)
* Is confident using Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and general IT systems
* Can build effective relationships across teams and schools
* Works well independently and takes initiative
* Has exceptional attention to detail and meets strict deadlines
* Is flexible, calm under pressure, and able to adapt to changing priorities
* Handles sensitive information with the highest level of confidentiality
* Is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
* If you're ready to make a meaningful impact and grow your career in a supportive, values-driven organisation, we'd love to hear from you.
About us
Castle School Education Trust (CSET) is a vibrant family of schools united by one powerful ambition: to deliver a great education for every child.
Spanning four secondary and five primary schools across South Gloucestershire, we're proud of our strong track record in school improvement, rising pupil numbers, and consistently improving outcomes. Each of our schools has a distinct identity shaped by the community it serves—and we celebrate that uniqueness while sharing expertise, resources, and support across the Trust.
We can offer you:
* Commitment to CPD and development of all staff including collaborative support and instructional coaching to allow employees to thrive
* Commitment to inclusivity and fostering of diversity
* Values and vision that are lived not laminated
* Open and honest culture
* Local Government pension with up to 19% Employer contributions
* Up to 30% discount with Microsoft & Dell
* Discounted gym membership
* Life Assurance - 3 x Death in Service
* Cycle to work scheme
* Dedicated counselling service
In order to apply for this role please complete an application form by 9am on 3rd October 2025. Please let us know if you require any adjustments as part of the process.
Please know that depending on the number of applications received we may decide to close the advert early. If you do not hear from us by a week after the closing date then please assume that you have not been shortlisted for an interview.
Join us in Providing a Great Education for Every Child
CSET is committed to equal opportunities and encourages applicants from all backgrounds and communities, as we recognise the importance and benefit this has for our pupils.
Safeguarding Statement
CSET is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. As part of this commitment any offer of employment will be subject to child protection screening appropriate to the post, which will include an enhanced DBS check for the children's workforce and a Children's Barred List check.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: From £16.90 per hour
Expected hours: No less than 22.2 per week
Work Location: In person