At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage office systems and provide administrative support in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Join a nurturing federation of two rural primary schools in North Yorkshire.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive community.
- Other info: Opportunity to work in a welcoming environment with career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while enjoying a varied role.
- Qualifications: Organised, efficient, and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 27254 - 29064 £ per year.
Salary: £27,254 to £29,064 per annum
Grade: CD/F
Contract: Permanent, term time
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Location: Ripon, North Yorkshire, Thornton Watlass CofE Primary School
Start Date: 7th September 2026
About the Federation
We are a thriving Federation of two small rural primary schools – Snape Community Primary School and Thornton Watlass Church of England Primary School. We offer the benefits of nurturing, close‑knit school communities alongside the strengths of a collaborative organisation. Our schools serve families from our local villages and beyond, providing a welcoming, inclusive environment where every child is known, valued and supported to succeed.
About the Role
We are seeking an organised, proactive and professional individual to take on the combined role of Office Manager and Administrative Officer. This role blends leadership of office systems with hands‑on administration, ensuring our schools run efficiently and remain welcoming to all. The post holder will be responsible for the efficient management of a busy school office and will bring prior school office experience, including establishing and maintaining school‑based systems.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage efficient office systems across the schools
- Provide high‑quality administrative support to the Headteacher and staff
- Maintain pupil and staff records using school systems
- Manage finance administration including orders and invoices
- Ensure safeguarding records and the Single Central Record are compliant
- Work in partnership with departments from the Local Authority, including Health & Safety and HR
- Act as first point of contact for parents, visitors and external agencies
- Support communication, including newsletters and correspondence
Qualifications
- Highly organised, accurate and efficient
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Confident using IT and able to manage multiple priorities
- Works well as part of a team across a federation of schools
- Maintains confidentiality and professionalism at all times
What We Offer
- A welcoming and supportive school community
- Opportunities for professional development
- A varied and rewarding role where you can make a difference
Safeguarding
The Federation of STW is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As part of safer recruitment practice, pre‑employment checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. This post is also subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check. In line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSiE), a social media check will be undertaken prior to any applicants shortlisted for interview.
Office Manager and Administrative Officer in Ripon employer: Applefields School
At Thornton Watlass CofE Primary School, we pride ourselves on being a nurturing and inclusive community where every child is valued. As an Office Manager and Administrative Officer, you will enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development and collaboration across our two schools. Located in the picturesque North Yorkshire, this role offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of our students while enjoying the benefits of a close-knit team environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Office Manager and Administrative Officer in Ripon
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Applefields School!
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Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Applefields School.
We think you need these skills to ace Office Manager and Administrative Officer in Ripon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Applefields School. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Applefields School and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Applefields School. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Applefields School's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Applefields School
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Applefields School.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Applefields School will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Applefields School and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
