At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert payroll services and manage statutory returns for HMRC and pension schemes.
- Company: Join the welcoming community at Kent College, a top-rated independent school.
- Benefits: Enjoy private healthcare, discounts, free lunches, and salary sacrifice schemes.
- Other info: Flexible part-time hours with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a supportive environment while working with a dedicated team.
- Qualifications: Level 3 CIPP qualification and experience with payroll systems required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 46000 £ per year.
We are seeking a Payroll Advisor to join us at Kent College, Canterbury from January 2026. The Payroll Advisor will be responsible for the provision of expert payroll services including the submission of all monthly and end of year statutory returns to HMRC and our various pension schemes. The successful candidate must hold a minimum of a Level 3 CIPP qualification, and have experience with payroll systems and of managing multiple pension schemes. Experience of working in an independent school setting is desirable, but not essential.
Kent College is a co-educational school with a Methodist foundation. The school is located in Canterbury, just one hour from the centre of London by train. The Senior School (11 – 18 years) has some 600 boys and girls, approximately one-third boarding and two-thirds day. This is a fabulous opportunity to work for a happy, caring and successful school in which pupils feel supported and encouraged to aim for high standards of achievement and conduct. The school was graded as excellent in all categories in the recent inspection conducted by ISI in October 2022, the Independent Schools Inspectorate that conducts inspections on behalf of the Secretary of State for Education.
We offer a range of benefits at KC, including: private healthcare with Benenden Health, retail and gym membership discounts, free lunch during term time, salary sacrifice schemes such as cycle to work and home and tech scheme, among many others.
The position is 32 hours per week across 5 days, Monday to Friday, full year.
Closing date: 21st November 2025, although if a pool of suitable candidates becomes available before that date the College reserves the right to interview and appoint without further notice.
Kent College Canterbury is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Kent College staff and pupils are proud to be part of a welcoming international boarding community. We value diversity and promote equality at all levels, and we are passionate about attracting a diverse pool of applications through an inclusive appointment process. Reasonable adjustments will be made at each stage of this process for any candidate with a disability. We warmly welcome applications from professionals of all backgrounds and communities, regardless of ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion, and we particularly encourage applicants who identify as Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic groups as these groups are currently underrepresented in our community.
Please note that we may prioritise applications from current Kent College redeployees. We will let you know if this post is to be filled by a redeployee as, in this instance, your application will unfortunately not be taken forward. Applications must be made via Kent College's online application system; CVs or details sent directly to the department or via email cannot be considered.
Payroll Advisor in Canterbury employer: Kent College
Kent College, located in the historic city of Canterbury, is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its staff. With a strong commitment to inclusivity and diversity, the school offers a supportive work culture alongside attractive benefits such as private healthcare, retail discounts, and a salary sacrifice scheme. Joining Kent College means becoming part of a caring community dedicated to high standards of achievement and conduct, making it a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll Advisor in Canterbury
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Kent College and understand their values and culture. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info about the role and might even lead to a referral, which can boost your chances of landing that Payroll Advisor position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common payroll-related questions. Think about your experience with payroll systems and pension schemes, and be ready to share specific examples that highlight your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through Kent College's online application system! It's the only way to ensure your application is considered. Plus, it shows you're following their process, which they appreciate.
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Advisor in Canterbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, make sure to read through the job description thoroughly. We want to see that you understand what the Payroll Advisor role entails and how your skills match up with what we're looking for.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We love it when candidates personalise their applications to highlight relevant experience and qualifications. Show us how your Level 3 CIPP qualification and payroll system experience make you the perfect fit for our team.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your experience and skills. Avoid fluff and focus on what makes you stand out!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, applications must be submitted via Kent College's online application system. We can’t consider CVs sent directly to us, so make sure you apply through the right channel to ensure your application gets seen!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kent College
✨Know Your Payroll Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your payroll knowledge, especially regarding HMRC submissions and pension schemes. Familiarise yourself with the specific systems used by the school, as this will show that you're proactive and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Qualifications
Since a Level 3 CIPP qualification is a must-have, be prepared to discuss how your qualifications have equipped you for this role. Bring examples of how you've applied your knowledge in previous positions, particularly in managing payroll processes.
✨Understand the School's Values
Kent College has a strong ethos around support and high standards. Research their values and think about how your personal values align with theirs. This will help you articulate why you want to work there and how you can contribute to their community.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, the team, and the school's culture. This not only shows your interest but also helps you determine if it's the right fit for you.
