Admissions and Student Lifecycle Manager

Leicester High School for Girls; Leicester; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading independent school in Leicester is seeking an Admissions & Student Lifecycle Manager to enhance student recruitment and retention efforts. This role involves managing the admissions process, ensuring compliance with regulations, and fostering family engagement. The ideal candidate will possess strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to the school's ethos of girls' education and empowerment.

Qualifications

• Experience in admissions or student support in an independent school setting.
• Understanding of the independent school landscape and the needs of families.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full admissions process from enquiry to enrolment.
• Design and deliver a proactive retention strategy.
• Coordinate key transition points within the school.

Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Organisational Skills

Empathy

Education

Degree in Education

Degree in Marketing

Degree in Communications

Tools

Admissions Software

MIS Systems

Job description

Interview Date: Wednesday 4thJune

Working Pattern: Monday to Friday – 36.5 hours per week, Term Time plus 2 weeks.

Role Overview:

The Admissions & Student Lifecycle Manager will lead our efforts in student recruitment, retention, transitions, and alumnae engagement. This role is integral to ensuring a seamless and supportive experience for girls and their families throughout their entire journey at LHS—from first enquiry to alumnae involvement.

Key Responsibilities:

Admissions (Ages 3–19):

• Manage and lead the full admissions process from enquiry to enrolment across all entry points (Early Years, Junior, Senior, and Sixth Form).
• Organise and host open events, taster days, assessments, and family tours with warmth and professionalism.
• Support the development and implementation of recruitment strategies in line with school values and strategic priorities.
• Maintain accurate admissions data and management information systems (MIS), ensuring data integrity and providing regular analysis and reporting to inform strategic planning
• Ensure the timely and accurate submission of statutory data, including the School Census and other relevant regulatory returns.
• Work closely with academic and pastoral teams to ensure each new student’s smooth integration into school life.

International Admissions & UKVI Compliance:

• Manage the admissions process for international applicants, ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for overseas families.
• Act as the key point of contact for prospective international families, providing clear guidance on visa requirements, documentation, and timelines.
• Ensure the school’s full compliance with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) regulations, including responsibilities as a Child Student sponsor (formerly Tier 4).
• Maintain accurate and auditable records related to student visas, attendance, and communication, in line with Home Office guidelines.
• Liaise with the school’s UKVI compliance officer (or assume this role where applicable) to ensure timely submission of reports and responses to audits or requests.
• Keep up to date with changes in immigration legislation and ensure that all relevant staff are informed of and trained in their responsibilities under UKVI regulations.
• Work closely with the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and academic teams to support the pastoral and academic success of international students.

Student Retention & Family Engagement:

• Design and deliver a proactive retention strategy that supports student wellbeing and academic continuity from Early Years through to Sixth Form.
• Build strong relationships with families to understand their evolving needs and ensure their voices are heard and valued.
• Plan regular engagement initiatives (e.g. family coffee mornings, forums, celebration events) to foster a strong sense of belonging and loyalty.
• Monitor feedback and student satisfaction, working closely with pastoral and academic leads to resolve concerns early.

Transitions & Alumnae Relations:

• Coordinate and support key transition points within the school, including Junior to Senior School and Sixth Form entry, ensuring continuity of care and communication.
• Provide guidance and assistance to students and families during departures from the school, including those transitioning to other schools, ensuring a smooth, respectful, and well-supported exit process.
• Facilitate the timely and accurate transfer of academic, pastoral, and safeguarding information to receiving schools in accordance with relevant policies and regulations.
• Maintain detailed records of student leavers and ensure follow-up where appropriate to support future re-engagement or alumni involvement.
• Support transition programmes that empower girls to navigate change with confidence and resilience.
• Collaborate with the Development and Marketing teams to celebrate alumnae achievements and integrate their stories into school communications.

Qualifications and Experience:

• A degree in education, marketing, communications or a related field.
• Experience in admissions, student support, or external relations in an independent school setting.
• A deep understanding of the independent school landscape and the needs of girls and their families.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, warmth, and discretion.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities gracefully.
• Familiarity with admissions software/MIS systems and data reporting.
• Commitment to the school’s ethos of girls’ education, empowerment, and inclusion.

Personal Attributes:

• Empathetic, approachable, and confident in engaging with families across all age groups.
• A natural connector with a proactive and solutions-focused mindset.
• Able to navigate both the strategic and hands-on elements of the role.
• Committed to continuous improvement and building a cohesive, vibrant school community.