Are you an organised and methodical Finance Officer looking for a hands-on role from January 2026? Do you want to work in a school that values operational excellence and clear financial systems? Wayman Education is pleased to be recruiting a Finance Officer for a thriving primary school in Merton. The appointed Finance Officer will play a central role in day-to-day finance, supporting budget monitoring, processing transactions and preparing information to help leaders make informed decisions. This Finance Officer will work with the School Business Manager to manage purchase ledger, income, bank reconciliation and basic payroll input, ensuring month-end processes run smoothly. The role commences January 2026, and the successful Finance Officer will take part in a structured induction in the weeks leading into January 2026. Position details Role: Finance Officer — Merton Start date: January 2026 Contract: Permanent / Part-time or Full-time (school dependent) About the role The Finance Officer will be responsible for processing invoices, preparing payment runs, reconciling bank accounts and assisting with monthly management information. This Finance Officer will help prepare documentation for audit, manage petty cash and support lettings and trip finance. The Merton setting values accuracy and timeliness, and expects the Finance Officer to maintain high standards when handling financial records and communicating with staff and suppliers. The Finance Officer will also support the School Business Manager with budget monitoring spreadsheets and ad hoc queries from governors. Key responsibilities Maintain purchase and sales ledgers and ensure supplier payments are processed accurately and on time. Carry out bank reconciliations, monitor petty cash and ensure income is recorded promptly. Assist with payroll input and provide basic payroll support in liaison with the SBM. Produce routine financial reports and assist with month-end paperwork for leadership review. Prepare supporting documentation for internal and external audits and for grant claims. Person specification Proven experience in transactional finance, with a high level of numeracy and attention to detail. Confident user of finance systems and Excel; experience of school MIS or accounting packages desirable. Reliable, able to manage competing deadlines and proactive about improving office systems. Clear communicator with the ability to liaise with suppliers, staff and governors across Merton. Able to start January 2026 and to work in Merton. To be considered for this Finance Officer position, please forward a CV as soon as possible.