At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage library resources, assist students, and create engaging displays.
- Company: Join a prestigious school with a supportive library team.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, and free access to leisure facilities.
- Other info: Flexible hours and opportunities for professional growth await you.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' academic journeys while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Passion for literature and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30784 - 30784 € per year.
Required for: September 2026
Location: Deans Yard - Westminster School
Hours of work: Exact hours of work are 08:00 to 16:00 Monday to Friday, with one unpaid hour for lunch, and 12 Saturdays to be worked during school terms on an alternate basis from 08:00 – 13:00. The post holder will be expected to open the Library at 08:30 most days. Some flexibility may be required due to shift changes in Library hours between 08:00 and 18:30.
Contract: full-time (term-time only plus some days to be worked in school holidays), fixed-term until July 2028.
Salary: £25,834.73 (actual) equating to a full-time equivalent of £30,784 per annum.
Benefits:
- Generous School pension scheme
- Free access to the School’s leisure facilities, including a fitness gym (restricted hours).
- Cycle to Work Scheme and season ticket loans following completion of our standard probation period
- Private medical insurance (opt in)
- Free school meals are also available when on‑site during working hours for the role.
The deadline for applications is midday on Thursday 28th May 2026. In‑person interviews will take place shortly after the closing date.
The Library is staffed by librarians from 08:30 to 18:30 Monday to Friday, and 08:30 to 13:15 on Saturdays. It makes an important contribution to the academic scholarship and success of the school and is very well used by pupils, particularly Upper School. The Library is formed of nine rooms on the first floor of the historic Ashburnham House.
The Graduate Trainee Librarian will join and be supported by a dedicated team of Librarians comprising the School Librarian, Deputy Librarian and Senior Library Assistant. There will also be the opportunity to work with the Librarian at Westminster Under School, our linked prep school, a short 15‑minute walk from our Deans Yard site.
Role Responsibilities:
- Manage overdue and lost books through effective communication with pupils and staff
- Regular shelving, tidying, and shelf‑checking to maintain organised shelves
- Issue, return, OPAC search and data entry using Oliver, the Library Management System
- Assist with the management and development of the Library’s physical collections
- Contribute to stock maintenance, including processing new stock, weeding, re‑organisation of collections and stocktake
- Create engaging displays across the library and on social media
- Drive Inquiry by identifying the research and reading needs of pupils and staff making use of paid online and Library resources to create and publish engaging digital signage for the Library information screen
Access and Outreach:
- Help maintain an inclusive and welcoming Library environment
- Respond to enquiries from pupils and staff
- Support Information Literacy activities within the Library
- Assist with displays and promotional activities
- Create newsletters and social media content to engage the school community and to promote the Library to a variety of audiences
- Promote reading as both an academic and personal pursuit
General:
- Continue developing professional knowledge and skills through involvement with the School Library Association and other Library networking groups
- Any other duties which may be reasonably requested by the School Librarian
Equal Opportunities: We are an equal opportunities employer. We therefore encourage candidates to apply irrespective of age, disability, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion and belief, gender identity, sex or sexual orientation.
Safeguarding and Child Protection: Westminster School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Graduate Trainee Librarian employer: The Kingsley School
Westminster School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for the Graduate Trainee Librarian role. With a focus on professional development, employees benefit from generous pension schemes, access to leisure facilities, and opportunities to engage with a vibrant school community. Located in the historic Deans Yard, the school fosters a culture of inclusivity and encourages staff to promote reading and information literacy among pupils.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Trainee Librarian
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former librarians at Westminster School or similar institutions. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for libraries! When you get that interview, be ready to share your ideas on engaging displays or how to promote reading. We want to see your creativity shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those questions! Think about how you’d handle overdue books or support students with their research needs. We need to know you can think on your feet and keep the library running smoothly.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Trainee Librarian
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Graduate Trainee Librarian role. We want to see your passion for libraries and how you can contribute to our team!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since you'll be interacting with pupils and staff, it's essential to demonstrate your communication skills in your written application. Use clear and engaging language to show us how you can connect with our school community.
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you've had any experience in libraries or similar environments, make sure to mention it! We love seeing how your background can bring value to our library and help us maintain an inclusive and welcoming space.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Kingsley School
✨Know Your Library Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the role of a Graduate Trainee Librarian and the specific responsibilities listed in the job description. Brush up on library management systems like Oliver, and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to maintaining an organised and engaging library environment.
✨Show Your Passion for Reading
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for reading and promoting literacy during the interview. Think of ways you've engaged with books or helped others discover literature, as this will resonate well with the school's mission to promote reading as both an academic and personal pursuit.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask your interviewers. This could include inquiries about the library's current projects, how they engage with students, or opportunities for professional development. It shows you're genuinely interested in the role and the team.
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific situations, such as managing overdue books or creating engaging displays. Think through some scenarios beforehand and be prepared to share your ideas on how to tackle these challenges effectively.
