At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Head of Oxford High School in a dynamic, people-focused environment.
- Company: Join a pioneering school with a rich history and vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, professional development, and generous perks like free lunches.
- Other info: Term time role with opportunities for growth and impact in education.
- Why this job: Be a key player in shaping school life and supporting future leaders.
- Qualifications: Experience as an EA/PA or senior administrator in a busy setting is essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Hours: Full-time, Term Time Only 4 weeks in the holidays. This is an exciting opportunity for a highly experienced EA, PA, Office Manager or senior Administrator who is confident operating in a busy, people-facing environment to play a key role supporting the Head of Oxford High School.
As Executive Assistant to the Head, you will play a central role in the smooth running of the Head's office and the wider school. You will manage a busy and complex diary, coordinate meetings, correspondence, briefings, visits and follow-up actions, and act as a trusted first point of contact for pupils, parents, staff, governors, alumnae and external partners. Much of the role is about anticipating what is needed, protecting the Head's time and ensuring that communication from the Head's office is warm, professional, timely and well judged. You will also take responsibility for key operational and governance processes that help the school run effectively. This will include leading the planning of the school calendar, coordinating major meetings and events, supporting admissions, HR, bursary and compliance administration, maintaining confidential records, and acting as Clerk to the Governors.
This is a term time only role, with 4 additional weeks to be worked during school holidays as required and especially at exam results times.
About you
You will be a highly organised and proactive EA/PA or senior administrator, with experience of supporting leaders in a busy, complex environment. Calm under pressure and confident managing competing priorities, you will bring excellent diary, calendar and administrative skills, strong communication, sound judgement and absolute respect for confidentiality. You will be comfortable working with senior leaders, governors, staff, pupils, parents and external contacts, and ideally have experience in a busy school or similarly service-driven setting. With strong ICT skills, attention to detail and experience organising meetings and events, you will be motivated by playing a trusted, central role in the smooth running of school life.
About Oxford High School:
Since its foundation 150 years ago in the heart of Oxford's historic city centre, 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. As well as our commitment to girls' education, we are committed to investing in our staff's personal development through training and learning initiatives and via the Girls Day School Trust network. We are proud to have recently received the Independent Girls School of the Year Award for 2023 and have been shortlisted for the TES School Awards Prep School of the Year 2024.
Benefits:
- Competitive salaries and pay progression
- Access to extensive professional development opportunities
- Training grants for qualifications
- Generous pension schemes
- Free life assurance benefit
- Free school lunches
- 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
For further details and to apply please click the apply button. The closing date for applications is 23.59 on Sunday 14 June 2026. Interviews will take place on 22 and 24 June 2026. We encourage early applications and reserve the right to interview candidates as applications are received; please note that the vacancy may close early if a suitable candidate is found. Oxford High School and 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 online checks, checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Executive Assistant to the Head in Marston employer: Oxford High School
Oxford High School is an exceptional employer, renowned for its commitment to fostering a supportive and vibrant work environment. With a strong focus on professional development and personal growth, staff benefit from competitive salaries, extensive training opportunities, and a range of generous perks, including free lunches and significant fee discounts for children at GDST schools. Working in the heart of Oxford, you will be part of a pioneering institution that values innovation in girls' education and celebrates its achievements, making it a truly rewarding place to contribute your skills and expertise.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Assistant to the Head in Marston
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Oxford High School and its values. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff members on LinkedIn. They can provide insights about the school culture and might even give you a heads-up about what the Head is looking for in an Executive Assistant.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Prepare a brief introduction about yourself that highlights your relevant experience and skills. This will come in handy when you meet the Head or other key players during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and comfortable with online processes, which is crucial for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Assistant to the Head in Marston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience as an EA or PA. We want to see how your skills match the specific needs of the Head's office, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Organisational Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've managed busy diaries and coordinated meetings in the past. We love to see candidates who can juggle multiple tasks while keeping everything running smoothly!
Communicate Warmly and Professionally:Since you'll be the first point of contact for many, it’s important to convey your communication style in your written application. Use a friendly yet professional tone to reflect how you would interact with pupils, parents, and staff.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a seamless application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, so don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford High School
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the Executive Assistant to the Head. Familiarise yourself with managing complex diaries, coordinating meetings, and supporting various stakeholders. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
During the interview, be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed competing priorities in a busy environment. Highlight your experience in maintaining confidentiality and your ability to anticipate needs, as these are crucial for the role at Oxford High School.
✨Communicate Warmly and Professionally
Since you'll be the first point of contact for many, practice conveying warmth and professionalism in your communication. Prepare to discuss how you would handle interactions with pupils, parents, and staff, ensuring that your responses reflect the school's values and commitment to a supportive environment.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview that show your interest in the school's culture and operations. Inquire about the challenges the Head faces or how the EA role contributes to the school's success. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.
