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- Tasks: Manage staff cover and support academic administration in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Join Abingdon School, a leading independent school with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, private healthcare, free lunches, and a supportive work atmosphere.
- Other info: Diverse workplace with opportunities for growth and regular social events.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education while developing your skills in a dynamic setting.
- Qualifications: Strong communication, organisational skills, and a passion for supporting students and staff.
Abingdon School is seeking a Cover Manager and Academic Administrator to join the team.
Location: Park Road, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 1DE
Hours: Term time plus role working 40 hours per week for 36 weeks a year
Work pattern: 07:30 - 16:00, Monday - Friday
Salary: £29,256 per annum based on 0.7979 FTE
Closing Date: 18 May 2026 (9am)
Interviews: 22 May 2026
About Us: The Foundation comprises two schools: Abingdon School and Abingdon Prep School, as well as Abingdon School Enterprises. Abingdon School is a leading independent day and boarding school with more than 1,000 pupils aged 11-18. Currently a boys’ school, it will become co-educational from September 2026. Abingdon Prep School is a vibrant and warm day preparatory school with around 200 pupils aged 4-13 which has been co-educational since last year. Both Schools are situated in beautiful and extensive grounds, with the senior school in the heart of Abingdon on Thames, just south of Oxford, and the Prep School located a few miles away in nearby Frilford.
Cover Manager and Academic Administrator – The Role: We are looking for an exceptional administrator with excellent organisational skills to join our school in the role of Cover Manager and Academic Administrator. The holder of this post will support the work of the Academic Office, which currently comprises of the Deputy Head Academic, the Deputy Head Education Development and the Curriculum Director. In addition the role of Cover Manager supports all staff and students in ensuring staff absences are covered with appropriate allocation. This role also supports the admissions department for the planning of staff for key events.
Cover Manager and Academic Administrator - Key Responsibilities:
- Allocate cover for unplanned teaching staff absences and liaise with senior leadership regarding planned or longer-term absences
- Support exam administration including organising resit exams, invigilation scheduling and exam analysis
- Maintain updated calendars and diaries, booking rooms and managing operational changes
- Line manage common room secretaries and support their day-to-day tasks
- Keep certified absences records up to date and liaise with HR
- Send daily staff absence summaries to senior leadership
- Assist with interview days and admissions planning for key school events
Cover Manager and Academic Administrator - You:
- Strong interpersonal and team working skills with excellent communication abilities
- Highly organised with strong planning abilities and confident IT user
- Able to work in a focused, flexible manner within a busy environment, maintaining good humour
- Educated to GCSE level or equivalent, with essential aptitude for digital communication and data manipulation
- Committed to safeguarding, equity, diversity and inclusion, and to valuing children and young people
Benefits:
- You'll get 5.6 weeks holiday entitlement
- Up to 14.1% employer pension contribution
- Private healthcare insurance
- Free use of leisure facilities with discounted exercise classes
- Free lunches during term time
- Cycle to work scheme
- Christmas closure days
- Discounted school fees (eligibility criteria apply)
- There are regular staff social events and opportunities to join other staff
- We offer free on-site parking and bike storage for all staff
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. Early applications are encouraged. We may make an appointment prior to the advertised closing or interview dates.
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.
To submit your CV for this Cover Manager and Academic Administrator opportunity please click ‘Apply’ now.
Cover Manager and Academic Administrator in Abingdon employer: Abingdon School
Contact Detail:
Abingdon School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cover Manager and Academic Administrator in Abingdon
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Abingdon School and its values. Understanding their mission and culture will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff members on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips about the role and the school, plus it shows your initiative and enthusiasm for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to administration and cover management. Think about examples from your past experiences that highlight your organisational skills and ability to work under pressure.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Abingdon team. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Cover Manager and Academic Administrator in Abingdon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Cover Manager and Academic Administrator role. Highlight your organisational skills and any relevant administrative experience to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for us at Abingdon School. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed similar responsibilities in the past.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role requires strong interpersonal skills, make sure to demonstrate your communication abilities in your application. Whether it's through your writing style or by mentioning relevant experiences, let us see how you connect with others!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Abingdon School
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Cover Manager and Academic Administrator. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks like allocating cover for staff absences and supporting exam administration. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the position.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Since this role requires excellent organisational abilities, prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed multiple tasks or projects. Be ready to discuss how you maintain updated calendars and manage operational changes effectively.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Strong interpersonal skills are crucial for this position. Think of instances where you've effectively communicated with team members or resolved conflicts. During the interview, be sure to convey your ability to liaise with senior leadership and support staff in a busy environment.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Inclusion
Abingdon School values diversity and inclusion, so it's important to express your commitment to these principles. Share any relevant experiences that showcase your dedication to safeguarding and valuing children and young people, as well as how you promote equity in your work.