Receptionist Apprentice

We are looking for a Receptionist Apprentice to be the first point of contact for all visitors, staff and students at Harris Academy Purley. You will assist in the management of the reception area as well as providing administrative support to contribute to the smooth running of the academy. Upon completion of your apprenticeship (12‑16 months), you will receive:

• Business Administrator Apprenticeship Standard Level 3
• Certificate Level 2 Functional Skills in Maths and English (if no prior exemption)
• Actual salary: £20,838.47 (38 weeks per year, 37.5 hours per week)

Main Areas of Responsibility:

• Present the professional and welcoming face of the Academy to all visitors, staff and students, including telephone callers.
• Ensure all visitors are signed in to the academy in accordance with safeguarding procedures.
• Respond to queries from parents/carers and the general public with exemplary professionalism, ensuring that any messages or complaints are immediately dealt with, forwarded to the appropriate member of staff or escalated as required.
• Ensure the overall appearance of the reception area is tidy, professional and presentable at all times.
• Perform general administrative duties such as typing, photocopying, filing, collation and distribution of post.
• Contribute to the maintenance of academy information databases and filing systems relating to pupils, ensuring confidentiality is observed at all times and records are accurate and up to date.
• Assist academy staff in all aspects of academy life, including contacting parents and pupils where necessary.
• Provide general support as required, including preparation of documentation and administrative duties relating to specific areas such as academy calendar maintenance, extra‑curricular activities, school trips and school meal arrangements.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Qualifications to GCSE level or equivalent.
• Competency in the use of Microsoft Office packages.
• Proficiency in the use of computers and databases.
• Previous experience in an administrative or front‑office/reception role.
• Demonstrable customer service experience.
• Good level of interpersonal and communication skills, with a good standard of written and spoken English.
• Excellent organisational and time‑management skills.
• Commitment to delivering an excellent level of professional customer service.
• Ability to remain calm and deal with challenging callers or visitors in an appropriate manner.
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy of work.

Benefits:

• Competitive rewards and benefits package including the Harris Allowance for teachers, a Performance and Loyalty Bonus, Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions, a Wellbeing Cash Plan and other benefits.

Equal Opportunities:

The Harris Federation is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We value the diversity of our staff and students, and everyone at the Harris Federation is equally valued and respected. We aim to be an inclusive employer that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment.

Safeguarding Notice:

The Harris Federation and all our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, references, an online search and, where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check will be completed.