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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Welcome visitors, manage attendance, and support school events in a vibrant environment.
- Company: Join a nurturing school dedicated to children with complex needs.
- Benefits: Enjoy health perks, professional development, and a supportive team atmosphere.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Strong IT skills, excellent communication, and ability to stay calm under pressure.
- Other info: Full-time role during term time with opportunities for growth and training.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
We are looking for a friendly and highly organised School Receptionist & Administrative Assistant to join our dedicated team. This varied and rewarding role sits at the heart of the school, welcoming visitors, staff, students and parents while ensuring the reception operates smoothly and efficiently.
Key Responsibilities
- Welcoming visitors and answering calls at the front office;
- Managing daily attendance registers and following up absences;
- Maintaining medical and accident records for pupils and staff;
- Supporting school trips, events and PTA activities;
- Handling post, deliveries and school transport lists;
- Maintaining security procedures;
- Staff and visitor sign-in and fire registers;
- Coordinating communication between parents, students and staff;
- Assisting with photocopiers, school equipment and general administrative tasks.
The successful candidate will be confident using a range of IT systems, have excellent communication skills, and be able to prioritise tasks while remaining calm under pressure. Flexibility, attention to detail and resourcefulness are essential.
Working Conditions
Contract type: Full-time (37.5 hours per week), term time plus weeks (1 week in the summer break). Monday to Friday 08:00 - 16:00.
About the School
Mill Ford is a school with a specialism in meeting the needs of children and young adults aged 3-19 with complex needs, including severe and profound and multiple learning difficulties, complex medical needs and autistic spectrum conditions. We are a friendly, child-centered school where staff work tirelessly to provide each child and young person with an individual and exciting curriculum that ensures pupils develop skills and knowledge for life now and in the future. We place a strong emphasis on ensuring our pupils aspire to be the best they can, are able to contribute to society, develop their communication and social skills, enjoy learning and have a strong sense of self. We ensure pupils can achieve these things independently in a nurturing environment, where they feel safe enough to take risks. This position will be based at our Rochford school site in Ernesettle, Plymouth.
Safeguarding children and young people is paramount in all we do, so that children and young people can learn and thrive in a safe environment. We expect all staff to share this commitment - an enhanced DBS disclosure is required for this post. For the successful candidate, and in accordance with our School Policies and KCSIE guidelines set out by the Department for Education, a background check will be carried out on your online digital presence.
What we can offer you:
- A rewarding career supporting the school to deliver its commitment to an amazing group of children and young people.
- A nurturing and supportive workplace with a great team.
- Health and Wellbeing package which includes access to physiotherapy, counselling and mindfulness and a 24/7 GP helpline.
- Access to the Cycle to Work Scheme with Plymouth City Council along with other Plymouth City Council Employee discounts.
- Training to support you in your role, including Bromcom systems, Safety Interventions, and access to optional training such as Makaton for communication.
- E-learning access through the National Online College - a suite of learning options to support your professional development.
- Access to apply for a Blue Light discount card.
- An opportunity to join the school at a time of growth.
Receptionist & Administrative Assistant in Plymouth employer: The Mill
Contact Detail:
The Mill Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Receptionist & Administrative Assistant in Plymouth
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Mill Ford and its values. When you walk in for your interview, show that you understand their mission and how you can contribute to creating a safe and nurturing environment for the pupils.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a Receptionist & Administrative Assistant, you'll be the first point of contact. Role-play with a friend or family member to get comfortable answering calls and welcoming visitors with a friendly attitude.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your organisational skills! Bring examples of how you've managed multiple tasks in previous roles. Whether it’s keeping track of attendance records or coordinating events, demonstrate that you can juggle responsibilities like a pro.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to 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 Receptionist & Administrative Assistant in Plymouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your friendly side and how you connect with others.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your skills that match the job description. Focus on your organisational skills and any experience you have in a school or administrative setting.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since communication is key in this role, include examples of how you've effectively communicated with different groups, whether it’s parents, students, or staff. This will help us see how you can fit into our team.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Mill
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to research Mill Ford School and its commitment to supporting children with complex needs. Understanding their values and mission will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for, showing that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As a Receptionist & Administrative Assistant, organisation is key. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed multiple tasks or maintained records efficiently. This will demonstrate your ability to handle the varied responsibilities of the role.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be the first point of contact for visitors, staff, and parents, practice clear and friendly communication. Consider doing mock interviews with a friend or family member to refine your responses and ensure you come across as approachable and professional.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific situations, such as managing a busy reception or dealing with an upset parent. Think through potential scenarios and how you would respond, highlighting your problem-solving skills and ability to stay calm under pressure.