At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage reception, handle enquiries, and provide administrative support across departments.
- Company: Join the friendly team at Alfriston School, dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and term-time hours with additional summer week.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity in a fast-paced environment with a focus on teamwork.
- Why this job: Be the first point of contact and create positive experiences for students and visitors.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills, organisational abilities, and discretion in handling information.
The predicted salary is between 32243 - 39408 £ per year.
Salary: Bucks Pay Range 3 ISN 16-20 £29,114-£31,230 Pro Rata, Actual Salary £22,395-£24,023
Contract Type: Permanent, Term Time + 1 Additional Week in Summer
Hours: 37 Hours (Mon-Thurs 8.15-4.30pm Fri 8.15-4.00pm with a daily 45-minute unpaid lunch break)
Start Date: 1st December 2026
Alfriston School are seeking a professional, organised and enthusiastic Receptionist & Administration Assistant to join our busy and friendly school office team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys working with people, and takes pride in delivering excellent customer service and administrative support.
As the first point of contact for visitors, parents, students and staff, you will play a key role in creating a positive and professional experience for everyone who interacts with the school. You will also provide a wide range of administrative support, helping to ensure the smooth day-to-day operation of the school.
About the Role
- Manage the school's reception area and telephone switchboard.
- Handle enquiries by telephone, email and in person.
- Provide administrative support across various departments, including attendance, student support and HR.
What We Are Looking For
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
- The ability to prioritise workloads and manage competing demands.
- The ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
Why Join Us?
At Alfriston School we are committed to providing a supportive, inclusive and rewarding working environment where every member of staff is valued. You will be joining a dedicated team who are passionate about making a positive difference to the lives of young people.
Receptionist employer: ALFRISTON SCHOOL
Alfriston School is an exceptional employer that prioritises a collaborative work culture and the professional growth of its staff. With a strong commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant learning environment, employees benefit from engaging in meaningful projects that directly impact the community and educational delivery. Located in England, the school offers unique opportunities for career development within the education sector, making it a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Receptionist
✨Get to Know the Company Culture
Before jumping into applications, it’s super helpful to understand the vibe at ALFRISTON SCHOOL. Check out their social media, read reviews on sites like Glassdoor, and see how they engage with customers. It'll give you clues on their values and help tailor your conversation during interviews.
✨Join Customer Support Communities
Dive into online communities like those on Reddit or LinkedIn where customer support pros hang out. Participating in discussions or asking questions can make you more visible to potential recruiters and help you learn about job openings at companies like ALFRISTON SCHOOL before they even post them.
✨Attend Job Fairs or Networking Events
Look out for local job fairs or events specifically for customer support roles. This is your chance to meet hiring managers face-to-face, and you might even get the opportunity to interview on the spot!
✨Show Off Your Skills with Customer Interactions
In the customer support world, showcasing your communication skills is key. Consider creating a short video introducing yourself or even doing a mock call to showcase your abilities. It's a memorable way to stand out, especially if you can share this during your interview process!
We think you need these skills to ace Receptionist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Communication Skills:In customer support, clear communication is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you've had in customer-facing roles and your ability to resolve issues. Don't shy away from including specific examples of how you've gone above and beyond to help customers – this really shows your potential in the role.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to ALFRISTON SCHOOL:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you want to work at ALFRISTON SCHOOL specifically. Mention any unique aspects of our company that resonate with you and how your skills can enhance our customer support. This personal touch will set your application apart from the rest!
Highlight Any Relevant Tools or Tech Skills:If you've used customer support software like Zendesk or Freshdesk or have experience with CRM systems, make sure to mention these in your application. Being familiar with industry-standard tools can be a big plus for us when we’re reviewing applications, as it shows you can hit the ground running!
Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills:Customer support roles often require a knack for problem-solving. In your application, share examples of past experiences where you've tackled tough situations or resolved conflicts effectively. This will give us a good sense of how you handle challenges—an essential skill for success at ALFRISTON SCHOOL!
How to prepare for a job interview at ALFRISTON SCHOOL
✨Show Off Your People Skills
In customer support, it's all about communicating effectively. Prepare to share instances from your past experiences where you handled difficult customers or resolved conflicts. We want to hear how you empathised and found the best solutions, so think of specific examples to back up your stories!
✨Know the Tools of the Trade
Familiarise yourself with common customer support tools like Zendesk or Freshdesk, and make sure to review how you’ve used any similar systems in the past. During the interview, being able to discuss your hands-on experience with software or ticketing systems can really set you apart from the competition, so don’t skip this prep!
✨Show Genuine Enthusiasm
As this is a full-time role, employers want someone who isn’t just looking for any job, but wants to grow within customer support. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for helping customers and your desire to develop your skills. Show them why you're passionate about this field!
✨Practice Common Scenarios
Be prepared for role-playing scenarios where you might have to reassess a solution with a frustrated customer or explain a complex process in simple terms. Practising these common scenarios can help us feel more confident and demonstrate our practical skills effectively during the interview.