At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in running the library, manage enquiries, and promote collections.
- Company: Latymer Upper School, a diverse and inclusive educational environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time hours, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Gain valuable library experience while making a difference in students' lives.
- Qualifications: Recent graduate or pursuing postgraduate studies in Library and Information Studies.
- Other info: Flexible hours with a focus on diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 26000 Β£ per year.
Closing date: 9.00 am on Monday, 2 February 2026
Job type: Fixed-term from September 2026 to July 2027 (35 weeks)
Hours: Term-time only, 37.5 hours per week
Salary: Actual salary Β£22,506 per annum | FTE Β£28,860 per annum
Applications are invited for a fixed-term post starting September 2026 and finishing in early July 2027. The post is intended for a graduate wishing to gain library experience before undertaking a postgraduate course in Library and Information Studies or for recent graduates of such a course seeking to specialise in school librarianship.
The graduate trainee will assist in the day-to-day running of the library, staffing the desk (issuing, renewing and returning items on the library system), supervising students, helping with enquiries, promoting the collection through book and digital displays, and supporting library activities.
Hours are 10.00 am β 6.15 pm Monday to Friday (37.5 hours per week with a 45-minute lunch break) during term time, including INSET days. Some flexibility is required as you will be responsible for closing the library at 6.00 pm.
To apply, find out more about the school and our attractive staff benefits package, please visit our website and view the section "Join our Team". You can also download the recruitment pack here.
Interviews: Tuesday, 10 February 2026.
Diversity β The School is fully committed to the principles of equal opportunity, diversity and inclusion. We have an established and representative staff Equality and Diversity Board to help drive forward positive change. A further Equality and Diversity Committee has recently been formed from our student population. We are committed to attracting and retaining the very best staff, ensuring that our staff body reflects the diversity of our students and local community. Acknowledging a lack of ethnic diversity within our Support Staff community, we particularly encourage applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates for this role. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. In line with the Equality Act 2010, however, the School may employ positive action where diverse candidates can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well.
The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All posts are subject to an enhanced DBS, online checks and receipt of two satisfactory references.
Graduate Trainee: Library Assistant, Latymer Upper School employer: School Library Association
Contact Detail:
School Library Association Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Graduate Trainee: Library Assistant, Latymer Upper School
β¨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Latymer Upper School and its values. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
β¨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips about the role and the school culture, which can give you an edge in your application.
β¨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to library services and student engagement. Mock interviews with friends can help you feel more confident when the big day arrives.
β¨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, youβll find all the info you need about the role and the benefits of working at Latymer Upper School right there.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Trainee: Library Assistant, Latymer Upper School
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Library Assistant. We want to see how you can contribute to our library's day-to-day running!
Show Your Passion for Libraries: Let us know why you're excited about working in a library environment. Share any relevant experiences or projects that showcase your enthusiasm for books, digital resources, and supporting students.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your writing is easy to read and free from jargon. This will help us understand your qualifications quickly!
Apply Through Our Website: Donβt forget to submit your application through our website! Itβs the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and gives you access to more information about the role and our school.
How to prepare for a job interview at School Library Association
β¨Know the Library Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with the library's resources and services. Understand how the library operates, what collections it has, and any recent initiatives or events. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you answer questions more effectively.
β¨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
As a Library Assistant, you'll be interacting with students and staff regularly. Prepare examples of how you've provided excellent customer service in the past. Think about situations where you resolved issues or helped someone find what they needed. This will demonstrate your ability to support users effectively.
β¨Emphasise Your Teamwork Experience
Collaboration is key in a school environment. Be ready to discuss your experiences working in teams, whether in academic projects or previous jobs. Highlight how you contributed to group success and how you can bring that teamwork spirit to the library.
β¨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the library's goals, the team you'll be working with, or opportunities for professional development. This shows you're engaged and serious about the position, plus it gives you valuable insights into the role.