Office Administrator

Sullivan Upper School; Holywood; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A high-achieving educational institution in Holywood is seeking a professional Office Administrator. This full-time role involves managing reception duties, supporting school operations, and providing high-quality administrative support. Candidates should have at least 5 GCSEs including English and Maths, and relevant clerical experience. Proficiencies in Microsoft Office and excellent communication skills are essential. This position is pivotal for creating a welcoming environment within the school, enhancing operations and interactions with pupils and visitors.

Qualifications

• Minimum of one year administrative experience using Microsoft Office.
• At least six months experience handling confidential information.
• At least six months experience dealing directly with public.

Responsibilities

• Provide a welcoming reception service to all stakeholders.
• Manage enquiries via phone, email and in-person.
• Maintain accurate administrative records.
• Assist with daily office operations and scheduling.
• Prepare and distribute documentation.
• Use Microsoft Office tools for daily tasks.

Skills

Proficient in MS Word

Proficient in Excel

Proficient in PowerPoint

Proficient in Outlook

Strong organisational skills

Excellent communication skills

Ability to work under pressure

Understanding GDPR responsibilities

Education

Minimum 5 GCSEs including English & Maths

Job description

Office Administrator (with Reception Duties)

Holywood, Co. Down

Permanent | Full-Time | Term-Time Only (36.25 hours per week)

Working Hours: 8:30am – 4:30pm

Salary: £26,694 – £27,960 per annum (paid in 12 monthly instalments)

Start Date: As soon as possible

About the School

Sullivan Upper School is a high‑achieving, co‑educational and interdenominational voluntary grammar school set within 25 acres of beautiful grounds overlooking Belfast Lough. With around 1,230 pupils – including 160 in our Preparatory Department – we provide a challenging and supportive learning environment.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a confident and professional Office Administrator to join our busy Secondary Department office. This central role supports the smooth running of school operations and includes front‑of‑house reception duties. If you enjoy multitasking, building positive relationships, and delivering high‑quality administrative support, this is a great opportunity to make an impact in a thriving school environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide a welcoming and professional reception service to pupils, staff and visitors.
• Manage enquiries by phone, email and face‑to‑face.
• Maintain accurate and confidential administrative records.
• Assist with routine office operations, communications and scheduling.
• Prepare and distribute documentation and correspondence.
• Use Microsoft Office and school systems to support daily tasks.

Essential Criteria

• Minimum 5 GCSEs (Grade C or above) including English & Maths or equivalent.
• At least 1 year clerical/administrative experience using Microsoft Office.
• At least 6 months experience handling confidential information.
• At least 6 months experience working in a role dealing directly with staff/visitors/public.

Skills & Personal Qualities

• Proficient in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• Strong organisational skills and accuracy in work.
• Excellent communication skills, written and verbal.
• Ability to work under pressure and to deadlines.
• Ability to use initiative and prioritise workloads.
• Understanding GDPR responsibilities.

Desirable Criteria

• OCR/RSA Level 2 Word Processing or other ICT qualifications (e.g. ECDL, MOS).
• Clerical/administrative experience in a school or education setting (within last 5 years).
• Experience operating a telephone switchboard.
• Experience in a reception post with varied visitor interaction.
• Experience using SIMS/C2K systems.

The closing date for receipt of applications is: 12:00 noon on Monday 12 January 2026.

Click to apply today.