At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate staff cover and support daily school operations for a vibrant learning environment.
- Company: Channing School, a nurturing and intellectually vibrant educational institution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, free lunches, and excellent professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to safeguarding and promoting student welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a supportive community while developing your organisational and communication skills.
- Qualifications: Strong administrative skills and ability to manage complex logistics; education experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 28329 - 31599 € per year.
Channing School is seeking to appoint a highly organised and proactive Cover Manager and Administrative Assistant to join the Junior School on a full-time permanent basis from September 2026. This is a pivotal administrative role focused on ensuring the smooth and efficient day‑to‑day running of the school through the effective coordination of staff cover, timetabling and wider administrative support.
The successful candidate will oversee all aspects of daily cover arrangements for teaching and support staff, ensuring continuity of high‑quality learning experiences for pupils when staff are absent. This includes managing planned and unplanned absences, coordinating internal and external cover staff, maintaining accurate records, and supporting the organisation of trips, clubs, events and wider school operations.
The role also includes broader administrative responsibilities, working closely with the Junior School Senior Leadership Team to support the effective functioning of the school. We are looking for a dynamic, calm and solution‑focused individual with excellent organisational, communication and problem‑solving skills. The successful applicant will demonstrate strong administrative experience, particularly in managing complex daily logistics such as timetabling and staffing coordination.
The ideal candidate will be collaborative, adaptable and professional, with the ability to respond effectively to changing priorities and unforeseen situations under pressure. Experience working within an educational environment or alongside primary‑aged children is desirable but not essential. A commitment to safeguarding, confidentiality and supporting the values and ethos of the school is essential.
Channing Junior School is an intellectually vibrant and nurturing environment where responsibility, empathy, resilience, curiosity and independence are central to school life. Staff benefit from a supportive culture, excellent professional development opportunities and the chance to contribute meaningfully to the wider life of the school community.
Hours: Full time, permanent Monday to Friday, term time only plus INSET days
Working hours: 7.00am – 3.00pm
Start date: September 2026
Salary & Benefits:
Salary in the region of £28,329 – £31,599 per annum, dependent on experience and qualifications
Enrolment into the APTIS pension scheme (10% employer contribution)
Free lunch and refreshments during term time
Access to excellent CPD and training opportunities
Supportive and collaborative working environment
Opportunity to contribute to the wider life of the school community
How to Apply: Please complete the TES application form by clicking here. CVs will not be accepted in place of a completed application form. If you are unable to submit your application via TES, please email recruitment@channing.co.uk.
Deadline for applications: 9am, Tuesday 9 June 2026
Interviews: Friday 19 June 2026
Safeguarding commitment: Channing School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The school follows safer recruitment procedures in line with current safeguarding guidance and all appointments are subject to appropriate pre‑employment checks. Subject to statutory provisions, no applicant will be treated less favourably than another on the grounds of a protected characteristic as defined in the Equality Act. Ability to perform the role will be the primary consideration. In line with our Safer Recruitment Policy, all shortlisted candidates will be subject to online searches, including social media and third‑party Safehire.
Cover Manager & Administrative Assistant employer: The Independent Schools Council
Channing School offers a supportive and collaborative work environment where staff are valued and encouraged to grow professionally. As a Cover Manager and Administrative Assistant, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the Junior School, while benefiting from excellent professional development opportunities and a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Located in an intellectually vibrant setting, this position allows you to contribute meaningfully to the school community, making it an ideal place for those seeking a rewarding career in education.
Contact Detail:
The Independent Schools Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cover Manager & Administrative Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Channing School's values and ethos. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or at local education events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions. Think about how you'd handle unexpected absences or last-minute changes in timetabling. Show them you can keep calm and find solutions under pressure!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Channing School.
We think you need these skills to ace Cover Manager & Administrative Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, take a good look at the job description. We want to see how your skills and experiences match what Channing School is looking for, so make sure you highlight those in your application.
Show Off Your Organisational Skills:As a Cover Manager & Administrative Assistant, being organised is key! Use your application to demonstrate how you've successfully managed complex tasks or logistics in the past. We love seeing real examples!
Be Proactive and Solution-Focused:Channing School is after someone who can think on their feet. In your application, share instances where you've tackled challenges head-on and come up with effective solutions. This will show us you're the right fit for the role!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application via the TES application form as mentioned in the job posting. We won't accept CVs instead of the form, so make sure you follow the instructions to ensure your application gets seen!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Cover Manager and Administrative Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks like managing staff cover and timetabling. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Since this role requires excellent organisational abilities, prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed complex logistics or coordinated events. Be ready to discuss how you prioritised tasks and handled unexpected challenges, as this will highlight your problem-solving skills.
✨Emphasise Communication and Collaboration
This position involves working closely with the Senior Leadership Team and other staff members. During the interview, share instances where you've effectively communicated and collaborated with others. Highlight your adaptability and how you can maintain a calm demeanour under pressure, which is crucial in a school environment.
✨Align with the School's Values
Channing School values responsibility, empathy, and resilience. Make sure to express your commitment to these values during the interview. Share personal anecdotes that reflect your dedication to safeguarding and supporting children, as this will resonate well with the school's ethos.
