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- Tasks: Support the Usher with administrative tasks, diary management, and correspondence.
- Company: Join one of the UK's top independent day schools in beautiful Oxford.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and work in a vibrant educational environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a prestigious institution that inspires students to learn and grow.
- Qualifications: Experience in a similar role with strong organisational and communication skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity to engage with senior staff and contribute to school operations.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 42000 £ per year.
The College School, founded in 1480 by William of Waynflete, is one of the country’s leading independent day schools. It is situated in an enviable location at the heart of Oxford beside the River Cherwell. Shaped by its Christian Collegiate foundation and links with the university city of which it is part, it aims to inspire in all its pupils a desire to learn, flourish and to serve.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced PA to provide essential comprehensive administrative and secretarial support to the Usher, who is the Senior Deputy. The Usher’s PA will ensure the smooth running of the Usher’s office, providing an efficient and discreet service to fellow staff members and to parents of pupils. Frequently confidential and sensitive matters must be dealt with in the appropriate manner.
The main duties of the post will include, but not be restricted to, the following:
- Planning and managing the Usher’s diary, appointments and reminder systems, in order to make the most effective use of his time.
- Dealing proactively with all incoming and outgoing correspondence to and from the Usher’s office, including drafting letters and emails, in order to ensure appropriate and timely responses to all communications.
- Ensuring that all visitors and callers to the Usher’s office receive an efficient, professional, approachable and welcoming service, in line with the ethos of the School.
- Preparing and processing documents, reports and presentation materials to a suitably high standard, and to agreed timescales, using appropriate software packages.
- To support the DSL Team in safeguarding administration.
- Planning and organising internal and external meetings/interviews as required by the Usher.
- Making travel arrangements and preparing agendas and papers for meetings and minute taking.
- Liaising with senior staff, usually Heads of section and Heads of year, regarding letters to parents concerning pastoral care and disciplinary matters.
- Contributing to the operations of the School’s offices, including providing cover for colleagues and general administrative assistance as required.
- To undertake any other duties commensurate with the role.
Skills and Qualifications:
- Proven experience in a similar role.
- Substantial senior secretarial and administrative experience, working in a complex environment.
- Accuracy and attention to detail as well as first rate organisational skills.
- The ability to cope with a wide range of tasks and competing priorities.
- Sufficient numeracy to deal with statistical data.
- Proficient use of Microsoft programmes, including Word, Outlook, PowerPoint and Excel.
- Excellent command of written and spoken English.
- Excellent telephone manner and ability to deal with visitors and callers in a calm and courteous way.
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for this reputable College School, please click apply to be redirected to their website to complete your application. Applicants who only send a CV will be automatically rejected.
PA to the Usher Deputy Head employer: Smiley & Co, Ltd.
Contact Detail:
Smiley & Co, Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PA to the Usher Deputy Head
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the ethos and values of The College School. Understanding their Christian Collegiate foundation and commitment to inspiring pupils will help you align your approach during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your organisational skills by preparing examples of how you've effectively managed complex diaries or schedules in previous roles. Be ready to discuss specific tools or methods you used to stay organised.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your ability to handle confidential information with discretion. Prepare to share experiences where you successfully managed sensitive matters, showcasing your professionalism and trustworthiness.
✨Tip Number 4
Brush up on your Microsoft Office skills, particularly Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel. Being able to demonstrate proficiency in these programmes during practical assessments can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace PA to the Usher Deputy Head
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience as a PA, particularly in educational or similar environments. Emphasise your organisational skills and any experience managing diaries or correspondence.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the role of PA to the Usher. Mention your understanding of the school's ethos and how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly demonstrate your proficiency in Microsoft Office programmes and your ability to handle confidential information. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed competing priorities in previous roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Smiley & Co, Ltd.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As a PA to the Usher, you'll need to demonstrate exceptional organisational abilities. Prepare examples of how you've effectively managed diaries, prioritised tasks, and handled multiple responsibilities in previous roles.
✨Emphasise Discretion and Confidentiality
Given the sensitive nature of the role, it's crucial to convey your understanding of confidentiality. Be ready to discuss situations where you've had to handle confidential information and how you ensured it remained secure.
✨Demonstrate Proficiency in Microsoft Office
Since the role requires proficient use of Microsoft programmes, brush up on your skills in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. You might be asked about specific features or how you've used these tools in past positions.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think of examples where you've dealt with challenging situations, such as managing conflicting priorities or handling difficult communications, and how you resolved them.
