Admissions Officer in Devon

Job Title: Admissions OfficerReporting to: Head of SchoolContract Type: Part-Time (25 hours per week)Working Hours: Flexible – specific days and times to be agreed at interviewSalary: Commensurate with experienceLocation: St John’s School, Sidmouth, Devon, UKJob DescriptionPurpose of the RoleThe Admissions Officer plays a key role in promoting the school and ensuring a smooth and welcoming admissions process for prospective pupils and their families. The post-holder will manage all aspects of pupil admissions, from initial enquiry to enrolment, providing an exceptional level of service and maintaining accurate records and communications throughout.Key ResponsibilitiesAdmissions Process ManagementAct as the first point of contact for all admissions enquiries, providing information, guidance and support in a timely and professional manner.Manage the admissions pipeline, tracking each applicant’s progress and ensuring deadlines and procedures are met.Maintain and update admissions databases and systems, ensuring accurate records are kept and GDPR regulations are followed.Organise and conduct tours for prospective families, showcasing the school’s strengths and ethos.Liaise with staff, including the Head of Juniors, Head of Seniors and SENDCo, to arrange taster days, assessments or interviews where required.Prepare offer letters, decline letters and related correspondence.Manage enrolment documentation and transition arrangements for new pupils.Communication and EngagementBuild strong relationships with prospective families, ensuring they feel welcomed, informed and supported.Collaborate with the Marketing Co-ordinator to ensure admissions communications and promotional materials are current and effective.Support the planning and delivery of Open Events and other admissions events.Liaise with feeder nurseries, schools and local networks to build awareness and maintain strong referral links.Data and ReportingProduce reports and analysis on admissions trends, conversion rates and pupil demographics for Leadership and Director use.Monitor waiting lists and pupil numbers, contributing to school planning and forecasting.Admin SupportAlong with the admin team, support the main office during secretarial absence.Person SpecificationEssential Qualifications and ExperiencePrevious experience in an administrative or customer-facing role.Excellent written and verbal communication skills.Proficient in using Google, Microsoft Office and database systems.Ability to manage and prioritise workload in a busy, deadline-driven environment.High level of attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and record keeping.Desirable Skills and ExperienceExperience working in an educational or admissions role, preferably in an independent school setting.Knowledge of school admissions processes and safeguarding regulations.Familiarity with school management information systems (in our case, iSAMS).An understanding of the independent education sector and the expectations of prospective parents.Personal QualitiesWarm, approachable and professional manner, with excellent interpersonal skills.A proactive, organised and flexible approach to work.Discretion and sensitivity when dealing with confidential information.Ability to work independently as well as part of a small, collaborative team.Commitment to the values, vision and ethos of the school.Willingness to work occasional evenings or weekends for key events, as required.A really good sense of humour.Additional InformationThe role is subject to an enhanced DBS check.Safeguarding and data protection training will be provided.Some flexibility in working hours may be needed to support open events and enrollment periods.