Position Start Date: Immediate Contract Type: Full-time Contract Term: Permanent
Application Close: 01/11/2026 Midday Date of Interviews: Week Commencing 2nd November 2026
LIFE Education Trust has opened a new independent special school to support pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. The Haefen, set in a beautiful open location, on farmland, with access to woodland and a private beach area, aims to create a nurturing, structured and inclusive learning environment where every young person feels safe, supported and able to achieve their full potential.
Our school provides a highly supportive setting with small class sizes, a strong pastoral approach and a dedicated team committed to improving outcomes for children who may have experienced barriers to learning in mainstream education.
We are seeking a highly organised and reliable Admin and Finance Support Officer to provide administrative and financial support to the school's leadership team and wider staff. The successful candidate will play an important role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the school office.
You will be the first point of contact for visitors, parents and staff, providing professional and friendly administrative support while maintaining accurate records and supporting school systems.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the day-to-day administration of the school
- Process orders in line with school procedures
- Assist with budget monitoring and financial record keeping
- Provide general administrative support to the Senior Leadership Team
- Contribute to the smooth operation of the school
- Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all time
This is a varied role requiring strong organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities.
The Ideal Candidate must
- Have experience of administration (school experience desirable but not essential)
- Have confidence in using office IT systems (Bromcom, CPOMs, PSF, iCompleat desirable but not essential)
- Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Have knowledge and experience of invoices and financial reconciliation (school experience desirable but not essential)
- Work accurately and efficiently
- Understand the importance of confidentiality within a school setting
- Be able to work both independently and as part of a team
Personal Qualities
- Resilient, calm and patient
- Empathetic with a passion for supporting young people
- A team player with excellent communication skills
- Committed to safeguarding and inclusion
- Excellent organisational skills
Safeguarding
The Haefen will be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and pre-employment checks.
We warmly welcome prospective applicants to visit us for an informal look around. It's a great opportunity to meet the team, see our setting in action, and get a real feel for what it's like to work here.
Information about the School
LIFE Education Trust is opening a new independent special school to support pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. The Haefen, set in a beautiful open location, on farmland, with access to woodland and a private beach area, aims to create a nurturing, structured and inclusive learning environment where every young person feels safe, supported and able to achieve their full potential. Subject to DfE approval, we hope that this incredible school will be ready to welcome pupils in the Autumn Term.
Our school will provide a highly supportive setting with small class sizes, a strong pastoral approach and a dedicated team committed to improving outcomes for children who may have experienced barriers to learning in mainstream education.
We aim to inspire and nurture every child so that they can live, believe, and achieve their true potential.
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.
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Nicky Patrick
Jacques Hall
Harwich Road, Bradfield
Essex, CO11 2XW Telephone: 01255 504528
Email: office@thehaefenschool.co.uk
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Admin and Finance Support Officer in Bradfield employer: Shorefields
Shorefields in Chelmsford is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for both staff and students. With a focus on professional development, we offer numerous growth opportunities and a collaborative work culture that values innovation and compassion in caring for children with complex needs. Our new purpose-built school provides a unique setting where you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people while enjoying the benefits of working in a vibrant community.
