At a Glance
- Tasks: Support governance operations and provide admin assistance in our Early Years Stronger Practice Hub.
- Company: Join Mercia Learning Trust, a thriving partnership of schools in Sheffield.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a team dedicated to empowering communities and fostering academic excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education while developing your skills in a dynamic setting.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and a proactive attitude are essential.
The predicted salary is between 31015 - 33673 £ per year.
Employer: Mercia Learning Trust
Location: Sheffield, South Yorkshire
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time
Salary: Grade 5 (£31,015 to £33,673)
Posted: 19th June 2026
Expires: 8th July 2026 08:00 AM
Start Date: 1st September 2026
Job ID: 1561298
Job Reference: Gov0807
Contract term: 37 hours, 43 weeks, we can be flexible and this will be agreed with the successful candidate, permanent
Start date: September 2026
Closing date: 8am Wednesday 8 July 2026
Mercia Learning Trust is a successful partnership of four primary and three secondary schools located in Sheffield, and will soon be joined by our eighth school, Mercia Northridge. Established in 2012, with one secondary school, our trust has grown to serving over 5000 pupils, with 650 staff.
Why do we exist? To empower everyone in our communities, especially the most disadvantaged, to succeed.
How do we behave?
- We are kind - showing care and supporting each other.
- We have integrity - doing the right thing and always putting children first.
- We work with diligence - overcoming obstacles and having no excuses.
What do we do? We run schools that focus on academic excellence, cultural capital and the development of character.
How will we succeed?
- A culture of excellence – high standards shaped by clarity, not control.
- Academic focus – empowering all children through an exceptional curriculum.
- Purposeful collaboration – relationships built on trust, reducing sub-optimisation and driving collective success.
Our staff are a crucial part of our trust, just like our pupils. We are devoted to recruiting, training, retaining and taking good care of our highly skilled and dedicated team.
The role
This is an exciting opportunity for a highly organised and proactive governance and administration officer to support the effective operation of governance across our trust, alongside providing administrative support and guidance within our Early Years Stronger Practice Hub (EYSPH).
Working closely with our head of governance, you will help to ensure that governance processes are well organised, accurate and compliant, supporting the smooth running of our trust board, committees, members and local governing bodies.
The role will also provide administrative support to our newly established Early Years Stronger Practice Hub helping to ensure the efficient coordination of meetings, records, communications and day-to-day activity.
You will play an important role in maintaining high standards of administration, supporting effective communication, and helping to ensure that both governance and hub activity run smoothly and professionally.
Safeguarding Statement: Mercia Learning Trust 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. We particularly welcome applications from under represented groups including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.
Governance and Administration Officer in Sheffield employer: Merciatrust
Mercia Learning Trust is an exceptional employer located in Sheffield, dedicated to empowering communities and fostering a culture of excellence. With a strong commitment to staff development and well-being, we offer flexible working arrangements, a supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth within our expanding trust. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the lives of over 5000 pupils while being part of a collaborative and integrity-driven team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Governance and Administration Officer in Sheffield
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Merciatrust, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Merciatrust and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Governance and Administration Officer in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Merciatrust and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Merciatrust
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Merciatrust, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Merciatrust.
