At a Glance
- Tasks: Be the friendly face of our school, providing vital admin and reception support.
- Company: Join Northern Star Academies Trust, a mission-driven community focused on nurturing learning.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, professional development, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a vibrant school community while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and IT proficiency; school experience is a plus.
- Other info: Fixed term role with excellent career growth opportunities in a dynamic environment.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Location: Hookstone Chase Community School, Harrogate, UK
Contract Type: Fixed Term
Working Patterns: Full-Time
Application Deadline: Sunday, 4th January 2026
Interview Date: w/c 5th January 2026
Expected Working Start Date: January 2026
About us
Northern Star Academies Trust is a mission-driven Multi-Academy Trust, committed to nurturing learning in a sustainable environment. We offer access to a professional and supportive community of academies, fellow senior leaders, and mentors to help develop and progress your career. Each school in our Trust is unique and all of our primary and secondary academies are rated ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.
At Hookstone Community Primary and Nursery School, all our children enjoy their learning and flourish in a safe and happy environment. Everyone involved in our school life is proud of the school and strives to maintain it as a fantastic place to learn and a key part of the community.
Job Description
Northern Star Academies Trust seeks to recruit a friendly, organised and highly efficient Reception & Administration Officer to join our school team. This varied role is central to the smooth running of the school and provides vital administrative, finance and HR support. The successful candidate will be the first point of contact for parents, visitors and staff, delivering a professional reception service while providing comprehensive administrative support across the school.
Responsibilities include:
- Pupil welfare and first aid support
- Maintaining accurate records
- Supporting admissions and attendance
- Assisting with school events and trips
- Liaising with external agencies and contractors
- Finance administration such as processing orders, supporting audits and managing payments
- HR administration including staff induction, recruitment support, absence recording and compliance with safeguarding and employment regulations
We are looking for someone with excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail, confidence using IT systems, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a busy school environment. Experience in a school or similar setting and knowledge of systems such as Arbor would be an advantage.
In return, we offer a supportive team environment and opportunities for training and professional development. This is a fixed term contract until 31 December 2026 working term-time only plus 5 training days. Working hours are 37 per week, Monday to Thursday 8.30am until 4.30pm, Friday 8.30am until 4pm.
Please be aware that the school will be closed to enquiries due to the Christmas holidays from 20 December 2025 until 4 January 2026. Enquiries sent to the recruitment email will be picked up on the following dates: Monday 22nd, Tuesday 23rd December and Friday 2nd January 2026.
Northern Star Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post requires an enhanced DBS Criminal check. Please note that in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2022, an online search will be carried out as part of our due diligence on shortlisted candidates.
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Receptionist & Adminstrator in Harrogate employer: Voyage Education Partnership
Contact Detail:
Voyage Education Partnership Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Receptionist & Adminstrator in Harrogate
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values! Before your interview, take some time to research Hookstone Chase Community Primary School and Northern Star Academies Trust. Understanding their mission and what makes them unique will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to reception and administration roles. Think about how your skills in communication, organisation, and multitasking can shine through. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your personality! As a receptionist, you'll be the first point of contact for parents and visitors. Make sure to convey your friendly and approachable nature during the interview. A warm smile and positive attitude can go a long way in making a great impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! When you're ready to submit your application, make sure to do it through the Northern Star Academies Trust website. This not only ensures your application is received directly but also shows that you're committed to being part of our community.
We think you need these skills to ace Receptionist & Adminstrator in Harrogate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Receptionist & Administrator. We want to see how you can contribute to our vibrant school community!
Show Off Your Communication Skills: Since you'll be the first point of contact for parents and visitors, it's crucial to demonstrate your excellent communication skills in your written application. Use clear and friendly language to reflect the welcoming atmosphere we cherish at Hookstone Chase.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you've worked in a school or similar environment before, make sure to mention it! We love candidates who understand the unique challenges and joys of working in an educational setting, so share those experiences with us.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and helps us keep track of your application. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Voyage Education Partnership
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to research Hookstone Chase Community Primary School and Northern Star Academies Trust. Understand their mission and values, and think about how your own beliefs align with theirs. This will help you demonstrate your commitment to their community-focused approach.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Receptionist & Administrator, strong communication skills are key. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in previous roles, whether it’s dealing with parents, staff, or external agencies. Practising clear and confident responses will help you shine during the interview.
✨Highlight Your Organisational Skills
This role requires juggling multiple tasks, so be ready to discuss your organisational strategies. Share specific instances where you successfully managed competing priorities or improved efficiency in an administrative setting. This will show that you can handle the busy environment of a school.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and approach to pupil welfare. Think about potential situations you might face in the role and how you would handle them. This preparation will help you respond thoughtfully and demonstrate your readiness for the position.