Current Vacancies

Full time, FTC (6 months)

We are seeking a qualified and experienced School Accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA) to take responsibility for the effective financial management of the school. Reporting to the Bursar, you will oversee budgeting, management reporting, payroll, and compliance, including the preparation and submission of VAT returns. This is an excellent opportunity for a finance professional who enjoys a hands-on role and wants to contribute to the continued success and financial sustainability of a thriving independent school.

You will be part of a supportive and collaborative professional community that values integrity, excellence and innovation. The role offers variety, autonomy, and the opportunity to make a tangible impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Management & Reporting
  • Prepare timely and accurate monthly management accounts, forecasts, and analysis for the Bursar, Senior Leadership Team, and Head Office.
  • Support the development and monitoring of the annual budget, providing insights and recommendations to inform decision-making.
• Cashflow & Treasury Management
  • Monitor and manage the school’s cashflow position, providing forecasts and variance analysis to support financial planning.
  • Support the Bursar in the oversight of banking arrangements and investment activity.
• Payroll & Pensions
  • Oversee the monthly payroll process in liaison with the external payroll provider, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely submission of all payroll and pension data.
  • Maintain accurate personnel and pay records, ensuring compliance with HMRC and pension regulations.
• Tax & Compliance
  • Prepare, review, and submit VAT returns accurately and on time, ensuring full compliance with HMRC requirements.
  • Maintain detailed VAT records, reconciliations, and supporting documentation.
  • Ensure adherence to internal financial controls, group policies, and statutory frameworks, recommending process improvements where necessary.
• Year-End & Audit
  • Lead the preparation of year-end accounts and audit schedules, liaising with auditors to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
  • Ensure compliance with financial policies, accounting standards, and reporting requirements.
• Team & Process Development
  • Supervise and support finance team members, fostering a collaborative and efficient working environment.
  • Contribute to process improvement and the development of financial systems to enhance reporting and control.
• General Responsibilities
  • Support the Bursar with ad hoc financial analysis, projects, and administrative tasks as required.
  • Actively promote and uphold the school’s safeguarding, Health & Safety, and security policies.

About You

Essential:

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Strong technical accounting and financial reporting skills.
• Proven competence and experience in preparing and submitting VAT returns and managing related reconciliations.
• Proven experience managing budgets, producing management accounts, and supporting audits.
• Excellent attention to detail with the ability to interpret and present financial information clearly.
• Strong systems and Excel skills with the ability to identify and implement process improvements.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and organisational skills.

Desirable:

• Experience working in the independent education sector
• Familiarity with financial systems; AiQ, iSAMS
• Availability for an immediate start

Additional benefits

• Competitive salary
• Employee Assistant Programme
• Contributory pension scheme and death-in-service benefit
• Parking on site
• Provision of lunch by our onsite catering team

Closing Date for applications is Monday 17 November 2025

Interviews will be held w/c 24 November 2025

All candidates are required to complete a school application form in full.  Please send your application form accompanied by a brief covering letter and CV to via email to Anna Gray, Head of HR - hr@sherfieldschool.co.uk.