At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Porter, ensuring smooth school operations and supporting events.
- Company: Abingdon School is a leading independent day and boarding school with a friendly atmosphere.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous perks like private healthcare, free lunches, and discounted school fees.
- Why this job: Be part of a valued team in a supportive environment that prioritises diversity and inclusion.
- Qualifications: Excellent customer service skills and a full driving licence are essential; school experience is a plus.
- Other info: Part-time role during term time with additional holiday weeks; commitment to safeguarding children is crucial.
Teaching careers in HMC independent schools
Abingdon School is seeking to appoint an approachable, reliable and conscientious candidate to join their friendly and professional team of Porters.
Abingdon School is seeking to appoint an approachable, reliable and conscientious candidate to join their friendly and professional team of Porters working at the heart of school operations ensuring the smooth running of the school estate and providing essential support for events.
This is a part-time role working 3 days per week 07.30 β 16.00 on Thursday, Friday and Saturday for a total of 38.4 weeks per year. The weeks to be worked are based on the 34 weeks of Abingdon School term time plus an additional 4.4 weeks (22 days) to be worked during school holidays.
The successful candidate will have excellent customer service skills with a helpful and flexible approach. A full driving licence is an essential requirement as the postholder will be required to drive school vehicles. Relevant experience within a school, academic or similar environment is desirable.
The School offers a range of generous benefits including up to 14.1% employer pension contribution, private healthcare insurance, free use of leisure facilities with discounted exercise classes, free lunch during term time and discounted school fees (eligibility criteria apply).
We recognise the value of a diverse and inclusive workplace and are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and job applicants. We aim to ensure that our staffing at all levels and in all roles is diverse and we welcome applications from all backgrounds and all sections of the community.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a highly valued team at a leading independent day and boarding school.
Closing date: 14 August 2025 (midday)
Interview date: 26 August 2025
Abingdon is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check.
12 The Point, Rockingham Road, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7QU
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PORTER (part-time, term-time plus) employer: HMC (Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference)
Contact Detail:
HMC (Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land PORTER (part-time, term-time plus)
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the schoolβs ethos and values. Understanding Abingdon School's commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace will help you align your approach during any interactions, showcasing that you share their values.
β¨Tip Number 2
Highlight your customer service skills in conversations or interviews. Since the role requires excellent customer service, think of specific examples from your past experiences where you demonstrated a helpful and flexible approach.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in similar environments. If you've worked in schools or similar settings before, be ready to talk about how that experience has equipped you for the Porter role at Abingdon School.
β¨Tip Number 4
Make sure you have a valid driving licence and are comfortable discussing your driving experience. Since driving school vehicles is a requirement, being able to confidently address this will strengthen your application.
We think you need these skills to ace PORTER (part-time, term-time plus)
Some tips for your application π«‘
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Porter position. Highlight key skills such as customer service and flexibility that are essential for the role.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect relevant experience, particularly in customer service or similar environments. Emphasise any previous roles that demonstrate your reliability and approachability.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the school. Mention your understanding of the importance of supporting school operations and events, and how your skills align with their needs.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise to make a positive impression.
How to prepare for a job interview at HMC (Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference)
β¨Show Your Approachability
As a Porter, being approachable is key. During the interview, demonstrate your friendly nature by smiling and maintaining open body language. Share examples of how you've successfully interacted with others in previous roles.
β¨Highlight Customer Service Skills
Excellent customer service is crucial for this role. Prepare to discuss specific instances where you provided outstanding service or resolved issues effectively. This will show that you understand the importance of supporting the school community.
β¨Demonstrate Flexibility and Reliability
The job requires a flexible approach, so be ready to talk about how you've adapted to changing situations in past jobs. Emphasise your reliability by mentioning your punctuality and commitment to your responsibilities.
β¨Discuss Relevant Experience
If you have experience in a school or similar environment, make sure to bring it up. Talk about what you learned from those experiences and how they prepare you for the Porter role at Abingdon School.