At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to handle diverse administrative tasks in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: George Heriot's School, a supportive and inclusive educational institution.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of holiday, generous pension, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team committed to safeguarding children.
- Why this job: Make a difference in the school community while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in an office setting and strong IT skills are preferred.
The predicted salary is between 26472 - 28888 £ per year.
Job Reference: schooltalent/TP/606/2659
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Type: Full Time Permanent
The salary range for the position is £26,472 p/a - £28,888 p/a.
Working Hours: Monday - Friday 37 hours p/w (Between 8.00am-5.00pm)
Location: Edinburgh
Closing Date: 18/06/2026
Department: Operational/Professional Services
Region / Division: George Heriot's School
Benefits:
- Enhanced holiday allowance (38 days minimum)
- Generous pension scheme (up to 11% employer contribution with 5% employee contribution)
- Enhanced sick pay, maternity, and paternity pay
- Family‑friendly policies, including Personal Emergency Leave Days
- Annual review and opportunities for training and continued professional development
- Travel to work schemes
- School Fee Remission (non‑contractual benefit)
- Employee Assistance Programme, including 24/7 counselling helpline and discounts at high street, supermarket, and general retail outlets
- Opportunities for involvement in the wider school community
The Role:
We are seeking a dedicated, organised, and hard‑working Administrator to deliver a variety of administrative tasks as part of our busy school team. Your office team will be situated within the Main Reception area at the heart of the campus and will serve as a central point of reference and contact for pupils, parents, staff, and visitors.
Main Responsibilities: Please see attached full job description.
The Ideal Candidate:
- Previous experience of working in a busy office environment in an administrative or reception position.
- Specific experience of working in a school or educational establishment is not necessary but would be advantageous.
- IT Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel) and school management systems.
- Communication: Excellent verbal and written skills with a professional manner.
- Safeguarding: Commitment to promoting the welfare of children.
- Attributes: Strong multi‑tasking abilities and a calm approach under pressure.
Additional Information:
Heriot’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment. This post is considered Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children and/or Protected Adults under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007 and successful candidates will be required to obtain membership of the PVG scheme. Please note that parking is not available on our campus. George Heriot’s Trust is an Equal Opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Administrative Assistant- (Start date August 2026) employer: George Watson'S College
George Heriot's School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment in the heart of Edinburgh. With generous benefits such as enhanced holiday allowance, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development, we prioritise the well-being and growth of our staff. Join us to be part of a vibrant school community where your contributions are valued and you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Administrative Assistant- (Start date August 2026)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at George Heriot's School on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions. We can help you with mock interviews to boost your confidence and nail those tricky questions.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! Bring examples of your previous work or projects that highlight your organisational abilities and IT skills. It’s all about making a lasting impression!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can keep you fresh in their minds and show your enthusiasm for the role. We’ve got templates if you need them!
We think you need these skills to ace Administrative Assistant- (Start date August 2026)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Administrative Assistant role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description, like your proficiency in Microsoft Office and any previous administrative roles you've held.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our team at George Heriot's School. Mention your organisational skills and how you can contribute to our busy school environment.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since excellent verbal and written communication is key for this role, make sure your application reflects this. Keep your language clear and professional, and double-check for any typos or errors before submitting.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly!
How to prepare for a job interview at George Watson'S College
✨Know Your Role
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of an Administrative Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the job description and think about how your previous experience aligns with the tasks you'll be handling.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Highlight your proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and any relevant school management systems during the interview. Be ready to provide examples of how you've used these tools in past roles to improve efficiency or solve problems.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since excellent verbal and written communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Consider preparing a few scenarios where you successfully communicated with colleagues or handled inquiries from parents or students.
✨Emphasise Your Organisational Abilities
As an Administrative Assistant, multi-tasking and staying calm under pressure are crucial. Prepare to discuss specific instances where you managed multiple tasks effectively, especially in a busy environment, to show that you can thrive in their dynamic setting.
