School Administrator

St. Andrews International; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned independent school in the United Kingdom is seeking a School Administrator. This role involves managing communications, supporting the operations of the Junior School, and ensuring compliance with policies. The ideal candidate should possess excellent people skills, organisational abilities, and have prior administrative experience, preferably in an educational setting. Benefits include a competitive salary, free lunches, and professional development opportunities. This is a permanent position requiring availability from 8:30 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Enrolment in pension scheme

Free lunch during Term Time

School holidays and public holidays

Free parking on site

School fee discount

Exclusive third-party discounts

Ongoing professional development

Qualifications

• Previous experience in administration or reception is essential.
• Experience in a school setting is desirable.
• Ability to manage time-sensitive tasks effectively.

Responsibilities

• Ensure smooth operations for students, staff, and parents.
• Manage communications and events for the Junior School.
• Assist with school-wide events and maintain accurate records.

Skills

Excellent people skills

Organisational skills

Proactive attitude

Attention to detail

Confidentiality

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the School-Downsend

Downsend is an innovative and forward‑thinking independent school, with a new vision; to inspire a generation to embrace the future, shaping incredible people who will make change in our world. At Downsend, we prepare our young people for the future with a creative and problem‑solving approach. We think big, we celebrate innovation, and we never hold back. We are delighted to announce that all four schools in the Downsend family have been judged to be ‘excellent in all areas’ by the Independent School Inspectorate.

About Cognita

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries – in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East – serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools is proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

About the Role

As a School Administrator, you will be at the heart of our school’s operations, ensuring everything runs smoothly for students, staff, and parents. You will be the first point of contact for parents and visitors, providing a warm and professional welcome while handling inquiries efficiently. Your responsibilities will include managing communications and events for the Junior School, supporting Senior School administration, and coordinating extra‑curricular programmes. You will also assist with school‑wide events, maintain accurate records, and ensure compliance with data protection and safeguarding policies. This is a varied role where no two days are the same, and your contribution will directly impact the experience of our school community.

This is a permanent role, needed 8:30 am‑5 pm, Monday to Friday, 40 weeks per year.

To view a Role Profile, click here.

Who We Are Looking For

You are an organised, proactive individual with excellent people skills and a strong sense of customer care. You thrive in a busy environment, remain calm under pressure, and can prioritise time‑sensitive tasks. Attention to detail and confidentiality are second nature to you. You are confident using IT systems and familiar with Microsoft Office. Previous experience in administration or reception is essential, and experience in a school setting is desirable. If you are adaptable, reliable, and enjoy working as part of a friendly team, we would love to hear from you.

Benefits at Cognita

• Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
• Enrolment in our company’s pension scheme
• Free lunch provided during Term Time
• School holidays and public holidays / Holiday Allowance
• Free parking on site (subject to availability)
• School fee discount
• Exclusive third‑party discounts
• Ongoing professional development

How to Apply

Complete this application before the closing date: Sunday 8th February 2026.

Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex‑Offenders is included within the Application Guidance.

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.

Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.