Job Description

Manchester Islamic Educational Trust (MIET)

is seeking to appoint Bookkeepers for two of our schools:

Manchester Islamic Grammar School for Girls (MIGSG)

and

Manchester Muslim Preparatory School (MMPS)

. These are part-time positions (3 days per week) with the same role and responsibilities across both schools.

ROLE SUMMARY

The School Bookkeeper is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, supporting the school's budgeting processes and ensuring compliance with financial regulations in an educational setting. This role plays a crucial part in the smooth operation of school finances, handling day-to-day transactions, invoicing, and reporting. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, confidential and able to work collaboratively with school staff, suppliers and external auditors. Duties will align with standard bookkeeping practices in UK schools, including processing income and expenses while adhering to charity and education sector guidelines.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Recording and Processing

: Maintain accurate records of all financial transactions, including income (e.g., fees, grants, donations) and expenditures (e.g., supplier payments, staff expenses). Process invoices, receipts, and payments using accounting software such as SAGE.

Bank Reconciliation

: Perform regular bank reconciliations to ensure all accounts balance correctly, identifying and resolving discrepancies promptly.

Budget Support

Assist in preparing and monitoring school budgets, providing reports on variances and forecasting to the Business Manager or Headteacher. Support month-end and year-end closing processes.

Payroll Assistance

: Support payroll administration, including processing timesheets, calculating deductions, and ensuring compliance with HMRC regulations (e.g., RTI submissions).

Compliance and Auditing

: Ensure adherence to financial policies, including VAT returns, GDPR for financial data, and school-specific regulations under the Academies Financial Handbook. Prepare documentation for internal/external audits and respond to queries.

Invoicing and Debt Management

: Raise invoices for school services (e.g., lettings, trips) and manage debtor follow-ups to minimize outstanding balances.

Reporting

: Generate financial reports for senior leadership, trustees, such as cash flow statements, profit/loss summaries, and ad-hoc analyses.

Administrative Support

: Handle petty cash, purchase orders and supplier relations. Maintain confidential financial files and support procurement processes.

Other Duties

: Collaborate with school staff on finance-related queries, contribute to financial policy updates and undertake training as required (e.g., on safeguarding or data protection).

This role requires discretion with sensitive financial information and alignment with the school's ethos, including Islamic values of integrity and accountability.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

Qualifications: AAT Level 2/3 qualification in Bookkeeping or Accounting, or equivalent (e.g., NVQ Level 3 in Accounting). GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths at Grade B/6 or above.

Experience: At least 2 years of bookkeeping experience, preferably in an educational or non-profit setting. Proven track record in financial recording, reconciliation, and reporting.

Skills and Knowledge: Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., Sage, Xero) and Microsoft Office (especially Excel). Strong numerical accuracy, attention to detail, and understanding of UK financial regulations (e.g., VAT, HMRC). Excellent organizational skills to manage deadlines in a busy school environment.

Other: Commitment to safeguarding and equality principles. Willingness to undergo DBS checks and adhere to school policies.

DESIRABLE CRITERIA

Qualifications: AAT Level 4 or higher, or part-qualified ACCA/CIMA. Knowledge of school-specific finance systems - SAGE Line 50

Experience: Experience in school finance, including budget monitoring for educational grants or charity accounting.

Skills and Knowledge: Understanding of the Schools' Financial Handbook or similar education sector guidelines. Ability to analyse financial data and provide insights for decision-making. Basic knowledge of procurement and contract management.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

Attention to Detail:

High level of accuracy in recording and processing financial transactions.

Integrity:

Honest, ethical, and trustworthy in handling financial information.

Team Player:

Ability to work collaboratively within a team, supporting colleagues in achieving shared goals.

Self-Motivated:

Able to work independently, managing time and tasks effectively without constant supervision.

Adaptability:

Flexible approach, able to handle changing priorities and deadlines in a busy environment.

Applications should include a CV and supporting statement addressing how you meet the person specification. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview, which may include a practical bookkeeping task.

Please note, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Manchester Islamic Educational Trust (MIET) is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and expects all staff to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references.

Please download application form from our website

www.mmps.miet.uk/join-us/vacancies

Job Types: Part-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 10-12 months

Pay: 25,017.00-28,307.00 per year

Expected hours: 22.5 per week

Benefits:

Free parking On-site parking Sick pay
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 05/09/2025