At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead marketing, admissions, and communications for a prestigious independent school.
- Company: Join Oxford High School, a top girls' school with a rich history.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, professional development, and generous pension schemes.
- Other info: Be part of a vibrant community dedicated to empowering young women.
- Why this job: Shape the future of girls' education and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Proven marketing experience with a passion for education.
The predicted salary is between 59400 - 72600 £ per year.
Shape the next chapter of one of Oxford's leading independent schools. Oxford High School, part of the Girls' Day School Trust (GDST), is seeking an experienced marketing leader to join our Senior Leadership Team as Director of Communications, Marketing and Admissions. Founded in 1875, Oxford High is the city's oldest girls' school and one of the country's most academically distinguished, with a reputation built on genuine intellectual rigour and exceptional pastoral care.
This is a strategic leadership role, reporting directly to the Head, with responsibility for marketing, admissions, philanthropy and alumnae engagement across our Senior and Prep schools. You will be joining a school with a compelling story to tell, and the strategic room to tell it well. Oxford High's ethos of intellectual challenge combined with real heart gives girls the freedom to take risks, find their voice and become confident, original thinkers - an identity that resonates strongly with prospective families once they encounter it.
As Director of Communications, Marketing and Admissions, you will drive recruitment and retention at key transition points (Junior, Year 7, Sixth Form), take ownership of digital marketing, PR and events, and work alongside the GDST's central Marketing and Philanthropy teams.
About you
We’re looking for an accomplished marketing professional with a strong track record in customer acquisition, retention and brand growth, whether gained within independent education or in a comparably competitive, consumer-facing corporate environment. You’ll bring evidence of driving enquiries, conversions or retention, confidence with data and digital marketing, and the ambition to lead a team and shape strategy rather than just execute it. Experience of the independent education sector is an advantage but not essential. What matters most is a genuine motivation to apply your skills to girls' education and excitement at the opportunity to grow within one of the UK's leading school trusts.
About the School:
Since its foundation over 150 years ago, Oxford High School has been innovative and pioneering in its approach to girls education. Today, Oxford High School is a happy and vibrant place to work: our students are highly motivated and ambitious, supportive yet self-aware. From our youngest Reception pupils through to our longest-serving members of staff, there is a real sense of pride at being part of the Oxford High community.
Benefits:
- Competitive salaries and pay progression
- Access to extensive professional development opportunities
- Training grants for qualifications
- Generous pension schemes
- Free life assurance benefit
- A discount of up to 50% on fees for children at GDST schools
- Interest free loans for training, computer purchase loans and travel season ticket loans
- A Cycle to Work scheme
- Competitive terms and conditions of employment
Application Deadline: Monday 24th August 2026. Interviews will take place in the week commencing Tuesday 1st September 2026. References for candidates invited to interview will be taken before the interview. We reserve the right to interview at any point during the recruitment process, so early applications are encouraged.
The GDST are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers, online checks and the Disclosure and Barring Service. We welcome applications regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity or religion. Your current or last employer will be asked for a reference and will be contacted prior to interview. Verification of right to work, and qualifications will be required at interview.
Director of Communications, Marketing and Admissions in Botley employer: Oxford High School
Oxford High School is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and supportive work environment dedicated to the personal and professional growth of its staff. With a strong commitment to maintaining high standards in education and facilities, employees benefit from competitive salaries, extensive training opportunities, and a generous pension scheme, all while contributing to a safe and welcoming atmosphere for students and the community. Located in the historic city centre of Oxford, the school provides a unique opportunity to be part of a pioneering institution that values teamwork and individual contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Communications, Marketing and Admissions in Botley
✨Show Your Creative Side
In marketing communications, standing out is key. Get creative with your application! Consider designing a mini-campaign or pitch that highlights your skills and understanding of the brand. Tailor it for Oxford High School and show them what you can bring to the table.
✨Engage in Marketing Communities
Get involved in local or online marketing communications groups. Check out platforms like Meetup for events and workshops. Networking here can lead to hidden job openings and valuable insights into the industry trends—this is where we often discover what companies like Oxford High School are looking for.
✨Leverage Social Media
Use platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter to showcase your passion for marketing communications. Share insights, articles, and your own content that resonates with the industry. Tagging or interacting with Oxford High School on these platforms can catch the eye of recruiters and show you're genuinely interested in them.
✨Attend Industry Events
Keep an eye out for marketing conferences and workshops. These are great places to meet potential employers face-to-face and make connections that could land you a full-time role at Oxford High School. Bring your business cards and be prepared to chat about how you can contribute!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Communications, Marketing and Admissions in Botley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft an Impactful Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Focus on your passion for marketing communications and how your previous experiences can benefit Oxford High School. Make sure to mention specific campaigns or projects you’ve worked on that showcase your creativity and strategic thinking.
Showcase Your Writing Skills:As you're diving into a marketing communications role, your writing ability is crucial. Include samples of your work, like blog posts, press releases, or social media campaigns in your application. This lets us see your style and how you engage with different audiences.
Tailor Your CV to Marketing:Your CV should highlight relevant marketing skills and experiences! Include specific tools or platforms you’ve used, like Google Analytics or social media management software. Mention any certifications or workshops related to marketing that you've completed – they can give you an edge!
Demonstrate Your Understanding of Oxford High School:Show us that you’ve done your homework! In your application, briefly mention what you admire about Oxford High School’s marketing approach or any recent campaigns that caught your attention. This can reveal your enthusiasm for the role and your genuine interest in joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford High School
✨Showcase Your Creative Campaigns
Get ready to flaunt your portfolio! Include examples of previous marketing campaigns you've worked on, especially those that showcase your creativity and strategy. Recruiters at Oxford High School will be keen to see how you conceptualise and execute campaigns, so highlight any measurable outcomes to back up your claims.
✨Know Your Digital Tools Inside Out
If you’re heading into a marketing-communications role, make sure you're comfortable discussing key digital marketing tools like Google Analytics, HubSpot, or Hootsuite. Expect some technical questions about how you've used these tools in the past, as they'll want to gauge your hands-on experience and how you analyse data to drive marketing decisions.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
At Oxford High School, they may throw some scenario-based questions your way, aimed at testing your problem-solving skills in real-life marketing situations. Think through potential challenges you’ve faced, how you navigated them, and be prepared to discuss your thought process and outcome.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Marketing
As you’re applying for a full-time position, show that you're not just looking for a job, but a career in marketing. Talk about the latest trends in marketing communications, your favourite campaigns, and why they inspire you. Your enthusiasm can really make you stand out and demonstrate that you’re committed to growing within the field.
