At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide top-notch admin support to the Deputy Head and Heads of Department in a vibrant school.
- Company: Thriving independent school in South West London with a supportive environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, free lunch, and local discounts.
- Other info: Term-time role with excellent training and development opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real difference in students' academic lives.
- Qualifications: Degree-level qualification or equivalent experience; strong IT skills required.
The predicted salary is between 29280 - 41600 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Personal Assistant to provide professional administrative support to a senior academic leader & heads of department within a thriving independent school. This varied and fast-paced role would suit someone with excellent interpersonal skills, outstanding attention to detail, and a proactive approach to managing complex administrative tasks.
Key responsibilities include:
- Executive Support
- Managing a busy calendar and ensuring the Deputy Head is fully briefed for all commitments.
- Drafting and proofreading high-quality correspondence for staff, parents and pupils.
- Updating and maintaining the academic calendar.
- Providing administrative support to the academic senior management team.
- Organising meetings, scheduling venues, preparing agendas and taking minutes, including for Governors’ meetings.
- Offering occasional support to other senior leaders.
- Parents’ Evenings & Academic Events
- Leading the organisation of all in-person and online parents’ evenings.
- Coordinating event timelines, system setup, data updates, parent communications and staff logistics.
- Acting as the primary contact for queries, and ensuring events run smoothly.
- Supporting the delivery of academic events such as webinars, induction sessions, and options evenings.
- Academic Administration
- Providing support to Heads of Department, including data collation and parent/pupil correspondence.
- Managing academic communications via SchoolPost and maintaining accurate records.
- Scheduling Pupil Performance Review meetings.
- Arranging mock exam resits across the year.
- Coordinating the annual textbook return process.
- Other Responsibilities
- Providing cover for pupil absence reporting and reception when required.
- Playing a full and active role in school life.
About You:
Qualifications & Knowledge
- Degree-level qualification or equivalent experience.
- Strong knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Knowledge of iSAMS or similar systems (desirable).
- Understanding of safeguarding and ISI regulations (desirable).
Experience
- At least 3 years’ PA/EA experience or equivalent.
- Proven ability to implement effective organisation systems.
- Experience minuting formal meetings.
- Event management experience (desirable).
- Experience working in an educational setting (desirable).
Skills & Personal Qualities
- Excellent written and verbal communication.
- Strong organisational and project-management skills.
- Ability to prioritise, use initiative and solve problems under pressure.
- High level of IT proficiency across MS Office.
- Fast and accurate typing (minimum 50 wpm).
- Discretion, professionalism and the ability to manage confidential information sensitively.
- Calm, flexible, strategic thinker with a commitment to a safe working culture.
Contractual Details:
- Salary: £36,800
- Contract: 37 weeks per year (0.87 FTE)
- Role Type: Term-time Only
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm
Benefits:
- Defined contribution pension scheme (up to 14% employer contribution).
- Salary exchange scheme and additional pension contributions through NI savings.
- Childcare vouchers (subject to eligibility).
- Free lunch on site.
- SimplyHealth plan including online GP and counselling.
- Local discounts with shops and restaurants.
- Season ticket loans and cycle-to-work scheme.
- Training and development opportunities.
If you would like to be considered, please apply online ASAP!
PA to Deputy Head employer: Crone Corkill
Crone Corkill is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work culture that values flexibility and collaboration. As a Membership Coordinator in London, you'll have the opportunity to engage with a diverse community while developing your skills in event management and communication. With a focus on employee growth and the potential for role extension, this position promises a meaningful and rewarding experience in a vibrant city.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PA to Deputy Head
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector or even alumni from your school. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school and its values. Show us you’re genuinely interested in the role by discussing how your skills align with their mission and how you can contribute to the academic environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend to do a mock interview with you. This will help you articulate your experience and skills clearly, especially those related to managing busy calendars and organising events.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating your enthusiasm for the role can leave a lasting impression. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace PA to Deputy Head
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience as a PA, especially in educational settings. We want to see how your skills match the specific responsibilities listed in the job description.
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves drafting correspondence and managing communications, be sure to showcase your excellent written and verbal communication skills. A well-written application can really make you stand out!
Highlight Your Organisational Skills:This position requires strong organisational abilities, so don’t forget to mention any systems or processes you've implemented in previous roles. We love seeing how you manage complex tasks and keep everything running smoothly.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of being considered. It’s the quickest way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at Crone Corkill
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the job description. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities like managing calendars and organising events. This will help you demonstrate how your skills align perfectly with what they’re looking for.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
As a PA, excellent written and verbal communication is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in previous roles, whether it’s drafting correspondence or leading meetings. Practising these examples will help you articulate your experience confidently.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Organisation Strategies
They’ll want to know how you manage your time and tasks. Think about specific systems or tools you’ve used to stay organised, especially in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to share how you prioritise tasks and handle multiple responsibilities.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, like managing a busy calendar or coordinating an event. Think through potential scenarios and how you would approach them, showcasing your problem-solving skills and proactive attitude.