At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage sports and leisure facilities, ensuring excellent customer service and smooth operations.
- Company: Join Abingdon School, a top independent school with stunning grounds and a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days' leave, private healthcare, free gym access, and discounted tuition fees.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team, gain valuable experience, and make a positive impact in the community.
- Qualifications: Customer service experience is essential; lifeguarding qualification preferred but can be obtained on the job.
- Other info: Flexible hours available; perfect for students looking to balance work and studies.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 33000 Β£ per year.
Abingdon School is seeking a Duty Manager to join the team.
Location: Park Road, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 1DE
Job Type: Full Time, Part Time, Evening and Weekend roles
Salary: full time salary range for this role is Β£27,772 β Β£29,660 (depending on skills and
experience) plus an annual retention bonus of Β£500
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.
Duty Manager The Role:
Abingdon School are seeking to appoint enthusiastic, motivated and committed candidates to join our fantastic team managing the sports and leisure facilities at Tilsley Park. We welcome applications from candidates looking to work either full time or part time (variable shifts including some evenings and weekends) or to work evenings or Saturday/Sunday shifts.
Duty Manager roles are stimulating, varied and hands-on with a wide range of duties
including direct liaison with customers. The role suits people who have a friendly and
welcoming manner and effective communication skills. We welcome candidates with great
customer service and administration skills and who are competent users of IT.
Duty Manager β Key Responsibilities:
β Open, prepare and close the facility safely and on time, following all operating procedures
β Deliver first-class customer service, manage enquiries and handle complaints professionally
β Prepare venues and equipment for classes, community bookings and events, managing setup and takedown
β Carry out daily facility checks to ensure cleanliness, tidiness and safe conditions
β Process payments through the EPOS system, manage stock control and handle cashing up procedures
β Work as a lifeguard or bar staff as required, maintaining full compliance
β Manage health and safety including risk assessments, incident reporting and mandatory training
β Support the management team with administrative tasks and booking system operations
β Work effectively with all staff including reception, coaches, fitness teams and maintenance
Duty Manager β You:
β Similar relevant experience in either customer service or facility management
β Professional qualifications or relevant experience in the sports/leisure industry are desirable
β A positive, flexible and can-do attitude
β Friendly and professional with consistently excellent customer service skills
β Good general IT skills
β Good administrative skills including attention to detail and a good standard of written English
β Willing and able to apply for a Personal Licence (for selling alcohol)
β Willingness to attend training as required and an eagerness to learn and improve
β A commitment to the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion
β A commitment to the protection and safeguarding of children and young people
β A commitment to valuing and respecting the views and needs of children and young people
Duty Manager Benefits:
β You\βll get 25 days off paid time off each year plus bank holidays
β Up to 14.1% employer pension contribution
β Abingdon Foundation Death in Service Scheme
β Employee Assistance Programme
β Private healthcare insurance
β We may be able to offer flexible working from home
β Free use of leisure facilities with discounted exercise classes
β Free lunches during term time
β Cycle to work scheme
β Christmas closure days
β Discounted school fees (eligibility criteria apply)
β There are regular staff social events and opportunities to join other staff
β We offer free on-site parking and bike storage for all staff
β We offer a range of online and in-person courses to staff for free including first aid, mental health first aid and health and safety courses
We recognise the value of a diverse and inclusive workplace and are committed to equality of
opportunity for all staff and job applicants.
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 Duty Manager opportunity please click Apply now!
Duty Manager employer: Abingdon School
Contact Detail:
Abingdon School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Duty Manager
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the facilities at Tilsley Park and Abingdon Sports Centre. Understanding the layout, services offered, and current activities will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to the team during your interview.
β¨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in customer service or facility management during your discussions. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams or improved customer experiences in past roles.
β¨Tip Number 3
If you donβt already have a lifeguarding qualification, consider starting the process now. Showing initiative by obtaining this certification before your interview can set you apart from other candidates.
β¨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your flexibility and willingness to work varied shifts, including evenings and weekends. Being open about your availability can make you a more attractive candidate for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Duty Manager
Some tips for your application π«‘
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Duty Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these aspects.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise any previous customer service or facility management experience in your CV and cover letter. Mention specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage sports and leisure facilities effectively.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to include your IT skills, attention to detail, and written English proficiency in your application. These are important for the role, so provide examples of how you've used these skills in past positions.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that reflects your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Discuss your 'can-do' attitude and how you can contribute to providing excellent customer service at Abingdon School.
How to prepare for a job interview at Abingdon School
β¨Show Your Enthusiasm
As a Duty Manager, you'll be expected to be enthusiastic and supportive. Make sure to express your passion for sports and leisure during the interview. Share examples of how you've motivated teams or contributed positively in previous roles.
β¨Highlight Customer Service Skills
Customer service is key in this role. Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in customer-facing positions. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you handled challenging situations and ensured a positive experience for customers.
β¨Demonstrate Flexibility
The role requires working variable shifts, including evenings and weekends. Be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt to different schedules. Highlight any past experiences where you successfully managed flexible working hours.
β¨Prepare for Lifeguarding Questions
Since obtaining a lifeguarding qualification is essential, be ready to discuss your swimming competency and any relevant qualifications. If you don't have the qualification yet, express your commitment to obtaining it and any related experience you may have.