At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the admissions process and create welcoming experiences for prospective families.
- Company: Join Downsend, an innovative independent school with a commitment to excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, free lunches, holiday allowance, and school fee discounts.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional development and career growth in a dynamic school community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on families' educational journeys in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills, excellent communication, and a passion for customer service.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
About the School - Downsend: 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 the Role: As Admissions Manager, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the experience of prospective families joining Downsend School. Working closely with the Head and Marketing team, you will lead the admissions process from initial enquiry through to enrolment, ensuring every family receives a professional, welcoming and customer-focused experience. You will oversee school tours, Open Events, assessment days and induction activities, while managing admissions communications and maintaining strong relationships with parents, colleagues and external stakeholders. The role also includes oversight of admissions data, reporting, forecasting and compliance, as well as line management of the Admissions Assistant. This is an excellent opportunity to make a significant contribution to pupil recruitment and the continued success of the school. This is a full-time, permanent position working 37.5 hours per week, year-round (52 weeks per year).
Who We Are Looking For: You will be a highly organised and customer-focused professional who enjoys building positive relationships and delivering exceptional service. You will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the confidence to work collaboratively across a wide range of stakeholders and manage multiple priorities effectively. Strong administrative and analytical abilities are essential, including confidence working with data, reporting tools and Excel. You will be proactive, detail-oriented and able to work independently while maintaining high levels of accuracy. Experience within admissions or an independent school environment would be advantageous, but most importantly, you will be passionate about helping families navigate their educational journey and ensuring an outstanding admissions experience.
Benefits at Cognita:
- Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
- Enrolment in our company's pension scheme
- Free lunch provided during Term Time
- 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: 23:59 BST (UTC+1), 4th October 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.
Admissions Manager in Leatherhead employer: Cognita
At Glenesk Pre-Prep and Nursery School, we pride ourselves on fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where both children and staff can thrive. As part of the Cognita family, you will benefit from competitive salaries, ongoing professional development, and a supportive work culture that values your contributions. With unique perks such as free lunches during term time and school fee discounts, joining our team means being part of a community dedicated to making a meaningful impact in early childhood education.
