At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage reception and administrative tasks in a vibrant college environment.
- Company: Orchard Hill College, dedicated to safeguarding and supporting students.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time hours, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a dynamic educational setting.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team making a difference in students' lives.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a commitment to student welfare.
The predicted salary is between 28371 - 28371 £ per year.
25 Cherry Garden Street, Bermondsey, London, SE16 4QF
Actual £25,278- £28,371 per annum (FTE £31,977 - £35,890 per annum) inclusive of London Weighting Allowance
36 hours per week, Term Time Only
Application End Date: 30/09/2026
Please note that CV applications cannot be considered. To ensure a fair opportunity for all applicants, candidates who have applied for this position in the past 6 months will not be considered.
Shortlisting: 6th October 2026
Interview: week commencing 12th October 2026. Date to be confirmed
Interview Panel – Karen Esson and Harpreet Hora
To help us manage applications effectively, we reserve the right to close this vacancy early if sufficient suitable applications are received.
Safeguarding Statement: Orchard Hill College & Academy Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Appointments made will be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. In line with the statutory guidance in Keeping Children Safe in Education, the Trust reserves the right to request and review references prior to interview as part of our safer recruitment process. Any concerns raised will be followed up with the applicant before a recruitment decision is made.
Centre Reception and Administrative Officer – Orchard Hill College, Cherry Gardens employer: Orchardhill
Orchard Hill College is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises the professional growth of its staff. As a Band 6 Speech and Language Therapist, you will benefit from competitive salaries, term-time working hours, and opportunities for continuous development within the Kingston NHS framework, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in a vibrant community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Centre Reception and Administrative Officer – Orchard Hill College, Cherry Gardens
✨Get to Know the Company Culture
Before jumping into applications, it’s super helpful to understand the vibe at Orchardhill. Check out their social media, read reviews on sites like Glassdoor, and see how they engage with customers. It'll give you clues on their values and help tailor your conversation during interviews.
✨Join Customer Support Communities
Dive into online communities like those on Reddit or LinkedIn where customer support pros hang out. Participating in discussions or asking questions can make you more visible to potential recruiters and help you learn about job openings at companies like Orchardhill before they even post them.
✨Attend Job Fairs or Networking Events
Look out for local job fairs or events specifically for customer support roles. This is your chance to meet hiring managers face-to-face, and you might even get the opportunity to interview on the spot!
✨Show Off Your Skills with Customer Interactions
In the customer support world, showcasing your communication skills is key. Consider creating a short video introducing yourself or even doing a mock call to showcase your abilities. It's a memorable way to stand out, especially if you can share this during your interview process!
We think you need these skills to ace Centre Reception and Administrative Officer – Orchard Hill College, Cherry Gardens
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Communication Skills:In customer support, clear communication is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you've had in customer-facing roles and your ability to resolve issues. Don't shy away from including specific examples of how you've gone above and beyond to help customers – this really shows your potential in the role.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Orchardhill:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you want to work at Orchardhill specifically. Mention any unique aspects of our company that resonate with you and how your skills can enhance our customer support. This personal touch will set your application apart from the rest!
Highlight Any Relevant Tools or Tech Skills:If you've used customer support software like Zendesk or Freshdesk or have experience with CRM systems, make sure to mention these in your application. Being familiar with industry-standard tools can be a big plus for us when we’re reviewing applications, as it shows you can hit the ground running!
Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills:Customer support roles often require a knack for problem-solving. In your application, share examples of past experiences where you've tackled tough situations or resolved conflicts effectively. This will give us a good sense of how you handle challenges—an essential skill for success at Orchardhill!
How to prepare for a job interview at Orchardhill
✨Show Off Your People Skills
In customer support, it's all about communicating effectively. Prepare to share instances from your past experiences where you handled difficult customers or resolved conflicts. We want to hear how you empathised and found the best solutions, so think of specific examples to back up your stories!
✨Know the Tools of the Trade
Familiarise yourself with common customer support tools like Zendesk or Freshdesk, and make sure to review how you’ve used any similar systems in the past. During the interview, being able to discuss your hands-on experience with software or ticketing systems can really set you apart from the competition, so don’t skip this prep!
✨Show Genuine Enthusiasm
As this is a full-time role, employers want someone who isn’t just looking for any job, but wants to grow within customer support. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for helping customers and your desire to develop your skills. Show them why you're passionate about this field!
✨Practice Common Scenarios
Be prepared for role-playing scenarios where you might have to reassess a solution with a frustrated customer or explain a complex process in simple terms. Practising these common scenarios can help us feel more confident and demonstrate our practical skills effectively during the interview.
