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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the school office, manage staff, and ensure smooth daily operations.
- Company: A unique, independent specialist school focused on personalised education.
- Benefits: Join a supportive community with a focus on innovation and growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a child-centred environment while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in office management, strong leadership, and excellent communication skills.
- Other info: Convenient location with great transport links and opportunities for professional development.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Location: Leyland, Lancashire (Next to Junction 28, M6)
Setting: Independent SEMH / ASC Special Needs Day School
Contract: Full-Time / Permanent
About the School
We are a unique, independent, and forward-thinking specialist school dedicated to providing a personalised education for young people. Our students have EHC Plans for Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASC), and Specific Learning Difficulties. As a student-led environment, we focus on individual growth and innovation. We are a family-owned provision where the leadership is deeply involved in the daily life of the school, fostering a supportive and close-knit professional community.
The Role
We are looking for an organised, proactive, and leadership-oriented Office Manager to take charge of our main school office. You will be responsible for ensuring the smooth daily operation of the administrative hub and managing two other staff members. This role is the heartbeat of the school, requiring a professional who can balance high-level administration with the empathy and flexibility needed in a specialist SEND setting.
Key Responsibilities
- Team Leadership: Manage and support two administrative staff members, ensuring duties are delegated effectively and the team is well-coordinated.
- Office Operations: Oversee all main office functions, including school admissions, attendance tracking, and front-of-house services.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Act as a key point of contact for parents, Local Authorities, and external agencies, maintaining the school's professional and caring reputation.
- Compliance & Records: Ensure all data, including EHC Plan documentation and safeguarding records, is maintained accurately and in line with UK GDPR.
- SLT Support: Work closely with the Senior Leadership Team to provide operational support and assist with school-wide projects.
About You
- Proven Experience: You have a strong background in office management or senior administration, ideally within an education or SEND environment.
- Leadership Skills: You are comfortable managing a small team and have a collaborative, "lead-by-example" approach.
- Adaptable & Calm: You can handle the fast-paced nature of an SEMH/ASC setting with a calm and resilient temperament.
- Communication: You have excellent written and verbal English skills and the ability to build rapport with staff, students, and visitors.
Why Join Us?
- The opportunity to work in a truly independent, child-centred environment.
- A role where you are part of a school that values innovation and forward-thinking practices.
- Convenient location with excellent transport links via the M6.
How to Apply
If you are an experienced administrator looking to make a difference in a specialist setting, please submit your CV and a covering letter.
Office Manager in Burnley employer: Tradewind Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Tradewind Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Office Manager in Burnley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work with SEND. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that might not even be advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show up and shine! Attend local education fairs or workshops related to SEMH/ASC. It’s a great way to meet potential employers face-to-face and showcase your passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a school you’re interested in, don’t wait for them to post a job. Send them a message expressing your interest and ask if they have any upcoming opportunities. We love initiative!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our unique school community.
We think you need these skills to ace Office Manager in Burnley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match our Office Manager role. Highlight any previous experience in education or SEND environments, as we love seeing how you can bring your unique background to our team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about working in a specialist school setting and how your leadership style aligns with our values. Keep it personal and engaging!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since communication is key in our environment, make sure your written application is clear and professional. We want to see your excellent English skills right from the start, so proofread for any typos or errors before hitting send.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll get to explore more about our school while you’re at it!
How to prepare for a job interview at Tradewind Recruitment
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to research the school's mission and values. Understanding their focus on personalised education for students with SEMH and ASC needs will help you align your answers with what they truly care about.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As an Office Manager, you'll be leading a small team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership approach and provide examples of how you've successfully managed a team in the past. Highlight your ability to delegate effectively and support your colleagues.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your adaptability and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced environment. Think of specific scenarios where you've had to remain calm under pressure or handle sensitive situations, especially in an educational setting.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since you'll be a key point of contact for parents and external agencies, prepare to discuss how you would build rapport and maintain professional relationships. Share any relevant experiences where you've successfully engaged with stakeholders in previous roles.
