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- Tasks: Support library operations and contribute to exciting archival projects.
- Company: Bury Grammar School, a vibrant educational institution with a rich history.
- Benefits: Gain professional development opportunities and support for relevant qualifications.
- Other info: Flexible roles available, whether full-time or part-time.
- Why this job: Engage with literature and history while making a difference in students' learning.
- Qualifications: Passion for reading, research, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 26000 £ per year.
Bury Grammar School is seeking to appoint a versatile, organised and enthusiastic Library and Archives Assistant to join our Library and Archives team from September 2026. This is a wonderful opportunity to work across a diverse and engaging service that supports pupils from Nursery through to Sixth Form, while also contributing to the curation and development of our extensive School Archive. Library Services at Bury Grammar comprises three well‑resourced libraries with a combined stock of over 40,000 items, alongside a rich and growing Archive containing materials that document the history and life of the school from its foundation to the present day.
You will play a key role in supporting the daily running of the libraries, assisting staff and pupils, and promoting reading and research. You will also contribute to important archival projects, including cataloguing, preservation and the development of materials that engage the wider school community and alumnae. This role would suit someone passionate about literature, research, organisation and supporting learning across all ages. Given the duality of the role, we are open to applications from candidates who may solely be interested in the Library or Archive as standalone positions; whether that be on a full time or part time basis.
Key Responsibilities- Library Support
- Provide guidance and assistance to pupils and staff in the use of library systems, resources and services
- Assist in the day‑to‑day running and organisation of the libraries, ensuring they remain welcoming, purposeful and conducive to study
- Supervise pupils using the library to maintain a calm, supportive and safe learning environment
- Use the Library Management System (currently ESS Reading Cloud) to issue, return and renew books
- Support the promotion of reading and research through attractive displays, themed promotions and events
- Assist in reviewing stock, including weeding, stocktaking and updating the catalogue across all sites
- Catalogue and integrate holdings to support the development of a unified archive collection
- Identify, classify and preserve historical documents, photographs, artefacts and digital materials relating to the school
- Liaise with donors, depositors and external researchers, ensuring new accessions are appropriately recorded
- Maintain records documenting the current life of the school for future archival use
- Manage and care for physical storage areas, ensuring the preservation and protection of materials
- Respond to enquiries from students, staff, alumnae and external researchers
- Promote the history and heritage of the school through displays, articles, exhibitions and related projects
We are able to support the successful candidate in gaining relevant qualifications, apprenticeships or other appropriate professional development.
The Ideal CandidateThe ideal candidate will have a keen interest in reading, research, organisation and historical materials, coupled with strong communication and interpersonal skills. They will be confident working with pupils across a wide age range and enthusiastic about supporting both traditional library operations and archive preservation work.
Application ProcessApplications should be submitted using the School Application Form and accompanied by a covering letter addressed to the Principal. Your letter should outline your suitability for the role and reference the criteria in the Person Specification. Bury Grammar School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicant will be subject to appropriate pre‑employment checks, including an Enhanced DBS check.
Library and Archives Assistant in Manchester employer: The Independent Schools Council
Contact Detail:
The Independent Schools Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Library and Archives Assistant in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Bury Grammar School's history, values, and current projects. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff members on LinkedIn or at local events. They can provide insider tips about the role and the school culture, which can give you an edge in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how your skills align with the responsibilities listed in the job description. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported library services or archival projects in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Library and Archives Assistant in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us: Before you start writing, take a moment to really understand what we’re all about at Bury Grammar School. Familiarise yourself with our values and the role of the Library and Archives Assistant. This will help you tailor your application to show how you fit right in!
Craft Your Covering Letter: Your covering letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to address it to the Principal and clearly outline why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Reference the key responsibilities and person specification to show us you’ve done your homework.
Show Your Passion: We love candidates who are passionate about literature, research, and history. Don’t be shy about sharing your enthusiasm in your application. Whether it’s a personal story or a project you’ve worked on, let us see your genuine interest!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application using the School Application Form available on our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important details!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know Your Libraries and Archives
Before the interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with Bury Grammar School's library services and archive collections. Understand their resources, cataloguing systems, and any recent projects. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you answer questions more effectively.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Literature and Research
Be prepared to discuss your love for reading and research during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've engaged with literature or historical materials in the past. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm and suitability for supporting pupils and staff in their learning journeys.
✨Highlight Your Organisational Skills
Since the role requires strong organisational abilities, think of instances where you've successfully managed tasks or projects. Whether it's organising a library event or maintaining an archive, be ready to share these experiences to illustrate your capability in keeping things running smoothly.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful ones that reflect your interest in the role and the school. For example, inquire about upcoming archival projects or how they promote reading among students. This shows you're proactive and genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.