At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Head with strategic, administrative, and confidential tasks in a dynamic school environment.
- Company: Cokethorpe School, a thriving independent day school set in beautiful Oxfordshire.
- Benefits: 33 days holiday, competitive salary, and flexible working hours during school holidays.
- Other info: Join a warm community committed to helping every child flourish.
- Why this job: Be a trusted partner to the Head and make a real impact on the school's future.
- Qualifications: Excellent organisational skills, discretion, and a proactive approach are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
A unique opportunity at the heart of Cokethorpe School. Cokethorpe School is seeking an exceptional Assistant to the Head to provide high-level strategic, administrative and confidential support to Dr Sarah Squire, Head of Cokethorpe School. This is far more than a traditional executive support role. It is an opportunity to become a trusted partner to the Head, working at the centre of a dynamic and ambitious school community and helping to deliver the strategic priorities that shape the future of the School.
The successful candidate will combine excellent organisational skills with sound judgement, discretion and a proactive approach. They will be someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, anticipates needs before they arise and enjoys building positive relationships with colleagues, parents, pupils and external stakeholders.
The Role
As Assistant to the Head, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the Head’s Office. Acting as a trusted gatekeeper, ambassador and key point of coordination across the School, you will manage competing priorities, oversee complex scheduling, coordinate communications and support the successful delivery of strategic initiatives. You will work closely with senior leaders, governors, parents and external partners, ensuring that the Head is equipped to lead effectively across all areas of School life. This is a highly visible position that requires professionalism, discretion, adaptability and a genuine commitment to excellence.
Why Cokethorpe?
Set within 150 acres of beautiful Oxfordshire parkland near Witney, Cokethorpe is a thriving independent day school for around 600 pupils aged 4–18. We are a school where ambition and belonging go hand in hand. Our community is characterised by warmth, purpose and a shared commitment to helping every child flourish. For the successful candidate, this role offers the opportunity to work closely with a forward-thinking Head and make a meaningful contribution to the ongoing success of the School. It is a role of significant variety, responsibility and impact.
Hours and Benefits
- Full-time, year-round position Monday to Friday, 8.15am–5.30pm
- Flexibility required to support the demands of the Head’s Office
- Reduced holiday working hours (9.00am–4.00pm) may be possible during School holiday periods, subject to workload
- 33 days’ holiday per annum, inclusive of bank holidays
- Competitive salary, commensurate with experience
- Appointment as soon as possible
Please note that, due to the nature of the role, annual leave must be taken outside term time.
How to Apply
Applications should apply via our website: https://www.cokethorpe.org/current_vacancies/assistant-to-the-head/
Closing Date: Midday on Wednesday, 1 July 2026
Early applications are strongly encouraged, as suitable candidates may be interviewed before the closing date. Interviews will take place during the week commencing 6 July 2026.
Assistant To The Head in Witney employer: Cokethorpe School
Cokethorpe School is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work closely with the Head in a vibrant and supportive school community set in the stunning Oxfordshire countryside. With a commitment to employee growth and a culture that values ambition and belonging, staff enjoy a competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students. This role not only provides professional development but also fosters positive relationships within a dynamic educational environment.
