At a Glance
- Tasks: Be the friendly face of our team, managing calls, emails, and in-person enquiries.
- Company: Join Coggeshall Road, a specialist education provider supporting young people with diverse needs.
- Benefits: Enjoy a part-time role with training provided and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced, caring setting while helping students thrive.
- Qualifications: Experience in education, IT skills, and a passion for supporting students with additional needs required.
- Other info: All appointments are subject to safeguarding checks to ensure child safety.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 28000 £ per year.
We are looking for a friendly, proactive, and highly organised Receptionist/Administrator to join our growing team at Coggeshall Road. As the first point of contact for visitors and callers, you will play a key role in creating a warm, professional, and supportive environment for our young people, families, and professionals.
In this varied role, you will oversee the smooth running of the front office, handling calls, emails, and in-person enquiries with efficiency and care. You'll also provide wider administrative support, including managing post and deliveries, coordinating appointments, supporting internal communications, and assisting with first aid provision (training provided).
Key responsibilities include:
- Maintaining accurate attendance records using the DC Pro system
- Setting up new student profiles on a management information system and ensuring all records are kept up to date
- Preparing new student files and distributing welcome packs to parents
- Managing and ordering office, cleaning, and kitchen supplies, with regular stock audits
- Organising Teams meetings, events, and diary schedules, and taking/distributing minutes
- Maintaining the management information system
You’ll also support day-to-day site operations by:
- Overseeing gate access and student drop-offs at the start and end of each session
- Signing in visitors in line with safeguarding procedures
- Welcoming students and fostering a positive start to their session
- Sending out weekly team meeting agendas
- Liaising with the website designer to ensure updates are actioned
- Conducting First Aid audits and supporting health and safety compliance
This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys working in a fast-paced, people-focused environment and is keen to be part of a collaborative and caring team.
We are looking for someone who:
- Has experience working with an education environment
- An understanding of Special Educational Needs
- Is confident using IT and general office systems
- Can communicate clearly and professionally with a range of stakeholders
- Is calm under pressure and able to prioritise tasks effectively
- Thrives in a team environment and is genuinely passionate about supporting students with additional needs
Information about the School: Coggeshall Road is an alternative provider of specialist education who work therapeutically with young people. We specifically work with young people aged between 11 and 17 who are struggling to engage at school, at home and in the community. We support young people with neurodivergent needs and who are struggling to access education due to difficulties with; ASD with co morbid anxiety, those with a PDA profile and sensory processing disorder, ADHD, specific learning difficulties, Gender dysphoria, Low mood, self-esteem difficulties, worry, rumination and intrusive thoughts, Anxiety disorders, including Selective Mutism, OCD, GAD, School Phobia, Social Anxiety and Separation Anxiety. We combine therapeutic approaches and a negotiated curriculum to empower the young person and promote social re-engagement.
All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.
Administrator / Receptionist employer: Shorefields
Contact Detail:
Shorefields Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Administrator / Receptionist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the DC Pro system and other management information systems commonly used in educational settings. This knowledge will not only boost your confidence during the interview but also demonstrate your proactive approach to learning essential tools for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience you have in a similar environment, especially if it involves working with young people or those with special educational needs. Sharing specific examples of how you've supported students or managed administrative tasks can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your communication skills and how you handle pressure. Think of scenarios where you've successfully managed multiple tasks or dealt with challenging situations, as this will show your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Coggeshall Road and its approach to education, particularly their focus on therapeutic methods and support for neurodivergent students. Being knowledgeable about the organisation's mission and values will help you convey your genuine interest in the role and align your passion with their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Administrator / Receptionist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and required skills. Tailor your application to highlight your experience in administration and reception, especially in an educational environment.
Craft a Strong CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experience, particularly in administrative roles. Include specific examples of how you've managed office tasks, handled communications, and supported teams in previous positions.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Mention your understanding of Special Educational Needs and how your skills align with the needs of the young people at Coggeshall Road.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for an Administrator/Receptionist role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Shorefields
✨Show Your People Skills
As a Receptionist/Administrator, you'll be the first point of contact for visitors and callers. Make sure to demonstrate your friendly and professional communication style during the interview. Share examples of how you've successfully interacted with diverse groups in previous roles.
✨Highlight Your Organisational Skills
This role requires excellent organisational abilities. Be prepared to discuss how you manage multiple tasks, prioritise effectively, and maintain accurate records. You might want to mention any specific tools or systems you've used in the past, especially if they relate to managing attendance or student profiles.
✨Demonstrate Your IT Proficiency
Since the job involves using various IT systems, it's crucial to showcase your confidence with technology. Talk about your experience with management information systems or any relevant software. If you have experience with DC Pro or similar systems, make sure to mention it!
✨Express Your Passion for Education
The school focuses on supporting young people with additional needs. Convey your genuine interest in working within an educational environment and your commitment to helping students thrive. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your understanding of Special Educational Needs and your enthusiasm for fostering a positive learning atmosphere.