JOB TITLE: SCHOOL BURSAR
Reporting To: The Principal, working closely with the Board Finance Committee
POSITION SUMMARY
The School Bursar/Accountant is responsible for the school’s financial management – budgeting, financial reporting, payroll administration, audit readiness, and statutory tax compliance. The role supports the Principal and the Board Finance Committee in maintaining transparency, accountability, and the financial sustainability of the school.
Job Summary
- Employer: All Saints English Medium School
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Mafeteng, Lesotho
- Category: Accounting
- Salary: negotiable
- Closing Date: 2026-10-09
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and manage the school’s annual budget in consultation with the Principal and Finance Committee. Monitor income and expenditure against approved budgets and flag variances.
- Review and quality-check financial records.
- Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for the Principal and Board Finance Committee. Perform bank reconciliations.
- Ensure financial records are current and audit-ready at all times.
- Process staff salaries and ensure timely payments.
- Administer statutory deductions (PAYE, pension, etc.) in compliance with regulations.
- Maintain accurate payroll records and reports.
- Prepare for and coordinate internal and external audits; compile financial statements and supporting documents for auditors.
- Prepare and submit tax returns in accordance with Revenue Services Lesotho (RSL) requirements.
- Ensure timely remittance of statutory obligations (PAYE, VAT where applicable) and liaise with RSL on compliance matters.
- Provide financial advice and insight to the Principal and Board Finance Committee.
- Support decision-making through financial analysis and reporting.
- Identify opportunities for cost savings and financial efficiency.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or equivalent in a related field.
- Professional certification (ACCA, CIMA, CPA, or equivalent) is an added advantage.
- Minimum of 2-5 years’ relevant experience (school or NGO environment preferred).
- Demonstrated experience handling submissions and compliance matters with Revenue Services Lesotho (RSL).
- Proven experience in audits, payroll, and tax compliance.
- Proficiency in Sage and/or Xero, and strong working knowledge of Excel.
- Strong financial management and analytical skills.
- Working knowledge of audit practice and Lesotho tax regulation.
- High level of integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
- Ability to work independently and to deadline.
- Valid police clearance and contactable references required.
Salary
negotiable
How to Apply
Phone: +26659518822
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for a School Bursar / Accountant position in Lesotho?
Most schools require a Diploma or Degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration from institutions like the National University of Lesotho or Limkokwing University. Professional certifications such as ACCA, CIMA, or ICAS are highly valued and can improve your competitiveness. Some schools may accept extensive bookkeeping experience combined with LACPA registration in lieu of formal degrees.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a School Bursar in Lesotho?
Daily tasks include managing fee collections from parents, processing payroll for teaching and support staff, maintaining accurate financial records, and preparing reports for the school board. You will also handle banking transactions, reconcile accounts, and oversee procurement of school supplies within budget constraints. During peak periods like term openings, you may spend significant time addressing parent queries about fees and payment plans.
How does workplace culture in Lesotho schools typically affect this role?
School bursars in Lesotho often work within hierarchical structures where respect for senior management and school governing bodies is essential. Punctuality and reliability are highly valued, as delays in payroll or fee processing can disrupt school operations. Building trust with parents from diverse economic backgrounds requires patience and diplomatic communication, particularly when negotiating payment arrangements.
What career progression opportunities exist for School Bursars in Lesotho?
Experienced bursars can advance to Finance Manager or Administrative Director roles within larger private schools or educational groups. Some transition to NGO finance positions, government education department roles, or establish their own accounting practices serving multiple schools. Pursuing further professional qualifications like ACCA or an MBA significantly expands advancement possibilities.
What benefits are typically offered for full-time accounting positions in Lesotho schools?
Benefits vary considerably between private and church-affiliated schools, but typically include annual leave of 15-25 days, paid public holidays, and sometimes partial medical aid contributions. Pension schemes may be offered through local providers like Lesotho National Life Insurance or through church-based retirement funds. Some schools provide professional development support, housing allowances, or tuition discounts for staff children.
How should I apply for a School Bursar position, and what do Lesotho employers prioritize?
Submit a concise CV highlighting accounting software proficiency and school or NGO finance experience, accompanied by certified copies of qualifications and references from previous employers. Lesotho employers prioritize integrity and transparency given the cash-handling nature of the role, so emphasize any audit experience or clean professional record. Prepare for practical assessments testing your knowledge of local tax regulations and payroll processing requirements.