At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage office operations and support staff to ensure a smooth school environment.
- Company: Join The Matthew Arnold School, part of the Bourne Education Trust, known for its supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, well-being support, and access to ongoing training opportunities.
- Other info: Work-life balance with family-friendly policies and free gym access.
- Why this job: Be part of a community that transforms lives and inspires students to dream big.
- Qualifications: 2 years of relevant experience and GCSEs in Maths and English required.
The predicted salary is between 28330 - 28330 € per year.
We are seeking an Office Manager to join our team at The Matthew Arnold School, part of Bourne Education Trust. The Matthew Arnold School is a thriving mixed comprehensive school for 11-16 year olds in Staines-upon-Thames, rated 'Good' in our February 2024 Ofsted inspection where we were recognised as 'a school where students and staff are aspirational.'
Our philosophy centres on both academic improvement and character development, encouraging students to challenge themselves and embody our motto: "Dream Big, Work Hard and Achieve." Our core values of Respect, Kindness, and Aspiration are embedded throughout school life. The people make our school special—from inquisitive children growing into confident young adults, to our talented staff who guide them. We provide an ambitious curriculum complemented by excellent facilities and a diverse enrichment programme, while our strong pastoral structure ensures students develop into resilient individuals.
Additionally, our newly established purpose-built smallholding, home to goats, chickens, and ducks, provides a unique opportunity for students to cultivate nurturing and caring skills. As part of the Bourne Education Trust (BET), a successful multi-academy trust comprising twenty-four schools across Surrey, Hampshire, and the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, staff benefit from a robust support network in a collaborative environment. We are committed to creating a community where students, staff, and families proudly contribute to both the school and wider community through "transforming schools...changing lives".
Details
- Position: Office Manager
- Contract: Term time, permanent
- Salary: PS7 pro rata £28,330 (£32,512 FTE)
Benefits
- Condensed school year with two week half term in October
- Ongoing training, learning and development opportunities
- Recognition policies for exceptional performance and long service
- Well-being support, including 24/7 online GP access, Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), online wellness support and free eye tests and flu vaccinations
- Access to savings on your everyday spending including groceries, homeware, entertainment and holidays, through My Staff Shop benefits platform
- Work-life balance, and family friendly policies and processes
- Free on-site parking and cycle to work scheme
- Occupational sick pay
- Free access to onsite gym after school
Key Responsibilities
- Line management, training and development of designated administrative staff including reviewing performance and conducting staff appraisals
- Ensure the smooth and efficient running of the administrative functions within the school
- To act as a liaison between the Headteacher, Leadership Team and the wider School Community to ensure that matters are dealt with promptly and effectively
Essential Requirements
- An awareness, understanding and commitment to the protection and safeguarding of children
- Minimum 2 years of relevant work experience
- Educated to GCSE Standard at Grade A - C for a minimum of 5 GCSEs including Mathematics and English, or equivalent qualifications
Our Culture
- Reflective, optimistic and aspirational
- Collaborative and innovative
- Committed, engaged and professional
- Advocates for equality and inclusivity
Office Manager employer: BOURNE EDUCATION TRUST
The Matthew Arnold School, part of Bourne Education Trust, is an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and collaborative work environment. With a strong commitment to staff development, well-being initiatives, and a focus on work-life balance, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. The school's unique facilities, including a purpose-built smallholding, enhance the enriching experience for staff and students alike, making it a truly rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Office Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at The Matthew Arnold School or Bourne Education Trust. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school's values and recent achievements. Show us how your skills align with their mission of 'Dream Big, Work Hard and Achieve'—it’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions, but also be ready for situational ones. Think about how you’d handle specific challenges in an office management role—this will show us you’re proactive and solution-oriented.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows us you’re genuinely interested in the position. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your enthusiasm!
We think you need these skills to ace Office Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Office Manager role. Highlight your relevant work experience and any achievements that showcase your ability to manage administrative functions effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for education and how your values align with our core principles of Respect, Kindness, and Aspiration. Don’t forget to mention why you want to be part of The Matthew Arnold School!
Showcase Your Soft Skills:As an Office Manager, you'll need to communicate well and work collaboratively. Make sure to include examples of how you've successfully managed teams or resolved conflicts in your previous roles. We love seeing those interpersonal skills in action!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at BOURNE EDUCATION TRUST
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with The Matthew Arnold School's core values of Respect, Kindness, and Aspiration. Think about how your own experiences and values align with theirs, and be ready to share specific examples that demonstrate this connection.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As an Office Manager, you'll need to manage various administrative functions efficiently. Prepare to discuss your previous experience in similar roles, highlighting specific strategies you've used to keep things running smoothly. Bring along any relevant documents or examples that showcase your organisational prowess.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenges. Think of situations where you had to liaise between different teams or resolve conflicts, and be ready to explain how you approached these situations and what the outcomes were.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask thoughtful questions about the school culture, the team you'll be working with, and the specific challenges the school is currently facing. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you determine if it's the right fit for you.
