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- Tasks: Support the Deputy Heads with various PA duties in a dynamic school environment.
- Company: Join Shiplake College, a vibrant independent school nestled in beautiful countryside.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, free lunches, gym access, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: This role offers a chance to grow professionally while making a positive impact on students' lives.
- Qualifications: Previous PA experience is essential; school experience is a bonus but not required.
- Other info: Part-time hours during term time with some holiday work; early applications encouraged.
Closing Date: 4 July 2025
Telephone: 01189402455
Email: jobs@shiplake.org.uk
Salary: Competitive salary depending on experience
Employment Term: Part Time
Maternity Cover (for up to one year) to start in October 2025
26 hours per week, term time only plus INSET
Competitive salary depending on experience
We are seeking to appoint a highly skilled and experienced professional PA to the two Deputy Heads of Shiplake College to cover a period of maternity leave (for up to one year). This is a great opportunity for the successful applicant to continue to build and develop the role.
The contracted hours for this role are 26 hours per week, consisting of 5 hours on four days and 6 hours on one day per week, as agreed in advance with the Deputy Heads. This is a term-time only plus INSET position, with a requirement to work for up to two weeks during the school holidays, for which you will be compensated separately.
Previous experience working in schools is not essential however, previous experience as a PA is a prerequisite – preferably at senior level.The successful applicant will have excellent communication, organisational and IT skills; the ability to multitask, together with the skills needed to undertake a varied range of PA duties. Essential to the role is integrity, maintaining confidentiality and a calm and approachable manner.
Shiplake College is an independent boarding and day school for around 540 pupils (anticipated to rise to over 570 in September 2025) aged 11 to 18. There has been a co-educational Sixth Form since 1998 and since September 2023 girls have been welcomed into Year 7 as the College became fully co-educational. Situated in 63 acres of beautiful countryside near Henley-on-Thames, we offer an outstanding education based on small class sizes, excellent facilities and dedicated teaching staff.
We offer a competitive salary, excellent free lunches and a contributory pension scheme together with access to our gym and sporting facilities and an excellent working environment.
A candidate pack together with an application form are available from
Early applications are encouraged for this important role. We reserve the right to appoint before the closing date if an early application from a suitable applicant is received.
Closing Date 10am on Friday 4 July 2025
Interviews will be held upon receipt of applications
www.shiplake.org.uk
Day and boarding school for ages 11-18, fully co-educational
HMC, The Society of Heads, BSA
Shiplake College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Shiplake is an equal opportunities employer.
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Part-time PA to the Deputy Heads employer: The Boarding Schools' Association
Contact Detail:
The Boarding Schools' Association Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Part-time PA to the Deputy Heads
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current or former staff at Shiplake College. They can provide valuable insights into the school's culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific duties of a PA in an educational setting. Understanding the unique challenges and responsibilities can help you demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples from your past experience that showcase your organisational and multitasking skills. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed multiple priorities in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Shiplake College's values and mission. Showing that you align with their ethos during your interview can set you apart as a candidate who truly understands and supports their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Part-time PA to the Deputy Heads
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your previous experience as a PA, especially at a senior level. Emphasise your organisational and communication skills, as well as any relevant IT proficiency.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the requirements of the role. Mention your ability to multitask, maintain confidentiality, and your calm approach in a busy environment. Show enthusiasm for the opportunity to work at Shiplake College.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills that align with the job description. Focus on your experience in managing varied PA duties and your ability to work effectively in a school environment, even if you haven't worked in one before.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you complete the application form provided by Shiplake College and submit it along with your CV and cover letter. Double-check all details for accuracy and completeness before sending your application via their website.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Boarding Schools' Association
✨Showcase Your PA Experience
Make sure to highlight your previous experience as a Personal Assistant, especially in senior roles. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed multiple tasks and supported senior staff.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. You might be asked about how you handle communication with different stakeholders, so think of examples that showcase your ability to maintain professionalism and clarity.
✨Emphasise Organisational Skills
Prepare to discuss your organisational strategies. You could be asked how you prioritise tasks or manage your time effectively, so have some concrete examples ready that demonstrate your ability to keep things running smoothly.
✨Exude Integrity and Approachability
The role requires a calm and approachable manner, so be sure to convey your personality during the interview. Share experiences where you've maintained confidentiality and integrity, as these traits are essential for working closely with the Deputy Heads.
