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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure smooth school operations, manage communications, and coordinate events for students and parents.
- Company: Join Downsend, an innovative independent school with a vision for the future.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, free lunch, and ongoing professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a vibrant school community while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Organised, proactive, with strong people skills and previous admin experience.
- Other info: Dynamic role with varied tasks and excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
About the School
Downsend is an innovative and forward-thinking independent school, with a new vision; to inspire a generation to embrace the future, shaping incredible people who will make change in our world. At Downsend, we prepare our young people for the future with a creative and problem-solving approach. We think big, we celebrate innovation, and we never hold back. We are delighted to announce that all four schools in the Downsend family have been judged to be ‘excellent in all areas’ by the Independent School Inspectorate.
About Cognita
Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, “Thrive in a rapidly evolving world”.
About the Role
As a School Administrator, you will be at the heart of our school’s operations, ensuring everything runs smoothly for students, staff, and parents. You will be the first point of contact for parents and visitors, providing a warm and professional welcome while handling inquiries efficiently. Your responsibilities will include managing communications and events for the Junior School, supporting Senior School administration, and coordinating extra-curricular programmes. You will also assist with school-wide events, maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with data protection and safeguarding policies. This is a varied role where no two days are the same, and your contribution will directly impact the experience of our school community. This is a permanent role, needed 8.30am-5pm, Monday to Friday, 40 weeks per year.
Who We Are Looking For
You are an organised, proactive individual with excellent people skills and a strong sense of customer care. You thrive in a busy environment, remain calm under pressure and can prioritise time-sensitive tasks. Attention to detail and confidentiality are second nature to you. You are confident using IT systems and familiar with Microsoft Office. Previous experience in administration or reception is essential, and experience in a school setting is desirable. If you are adaptable, reliable and enjoy working as part of a friendly team, we would love to hear from you.
Benefits at Cognita
- Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
- Enrolment in our company's pension scheme
- Free lunch provided during Term Time
- School holidays and public holidays / Holiday Allowance
- Free parking on site (subject to availability)
- School fee discount
- Exclusive third-party discounts
- Ongoing professional development
How to Apply
Complete this application before the closing date: Sunday 8th February 2026. Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders is included within the Application Guidance. We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background. Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.
School Administrator employer: Cognita Asia Holdings Pte Ltd
Contact Detail:
Cognita Asia Holdings Pte Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land School Administrator
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Downsend and Cognita to understand their values and culture. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff members on LinkedIn or at local events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you, which could give you an edge over other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the unexpected! As a School Administrator, you'll need to think on your feet. Practice answering common interview questions and be ready to discuss how you’d handle various scenarios that might arise in a busy school environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Downsend family and ready to contribute to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace School Administrator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Organisational Skills: As a School Administrator, being organised is key! Make sure your application highlights your ability to manage multiple tasks and keep everything running smoothly. Use examples from your past experiences to show us how you thrive in busy environments.
Be Personable: You’ll be the first point of contact for parents and visitors, so let your personality shine through! In your cover letter, share a bit about your people skills and how you create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We want to see that you can connect with our school community!
Attention to Detail is Crucial: In this role, accuracy is everything. When filling out your application, double-check for any typos or errors. Mention any experience you have with maintaining records or handling sensitive information, as this will show us you take confidentiality seriously.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our innovative team at Downsend!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cognita Asia Holdings Pte Ltd
✨Know the School's Vision
Before your interview, take some time to understand Downsend's innovative approach and vision. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to inspiring students and shaping future leaders. This will help you align your answers with their values and demonstrate your enthusiasm for being part of their mission.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As a School Administrator, organisation is key. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed multiple tasks or events. Be ready to discuss how you prioritise time-sensitive tasks and maintain attention to detail, as these are crucial in a busy school environment.
✨Emphasise Your People Skills
Since you'll be the first point of contact for parents and visitors, it's important to highlight your excellent people skills. Think of specific instances where you've provided outstanding customer service or resolved conflicts effectively. This will show that you can create a warm and professional atmosphere at the school.
✨Familiarise Yourself with IT Systems
Make sure you're comfortable discussing your experience with IT systems and Microsoft Office. If you have any specific software knowledge relevant to school administration, mention it! Being tech-savvy is a big plus, and it shows that you're ready to handle the administrative side of the role efficiently.
