Payroll Administrator

Ascend Learning Trust; Swindon, Royal Wootton Bassett; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free annual flu vaccines

Discounted gym memberships

24/7 counselling helpline

Annual Wellbeing Day

Generous holiday allowance

Flexible working solutions

Optional health and fitness schemes

Job summary

Ascend Learning Trust is seeking a highly organised Payroll Administrator to join the central team on a temporary basis with potential to become permanent.

The role will support all transactional payroll services across the wider trust, with options for term time plus four weeks or a 52‑week contract. Closing date is midnight 27 September 2026, interviews on Monday 5 October, and anticipated start date ASAP. We offer a supportive environment and opportunities for professional development.

Responsibilities

• Support all transactional payroll services across the wider trust.
• The successful candidate will contribute to payroll processes and accuracy across the Trust.

Job description

Payroll Administrator
Ascend Learning Trust-Central Team

Salary: NJC Grade E- F depending on experience
£25,989 FTE -£28,598 FTE

Full or part -time hours considered ( Part time minimum hours would be 25 per week)

Contract: Temporary with potential to be permanent

Closing date: Midnight 27th September 2026
Interview Date: Monday 5th October
Anticipated Start Date: ASAP

Job Overview

We are seeking a highly organised and professional Payroll Administrator to join our central team on a temporary ( with potential to be permanent basis). This role is for either term time + 4 weeks or for 52 weeks.

The successful candidate will support all transactional payroll services across the wider trust.
Full details can be found in the recruitment pack.

Why choose us?

At Ascend Learning Trust, our motto - Together we Belong, Believe, Become. - guides everything we do. We create a genuine sense of belonging and deliver a holistic, world-class education that opens doors for every young person, no matter their starting point. Our shared values of Compassion, Aspiration, Respect, Dedication and Integrity shape our culture and inspire us to provide unmissable education and limitless horizons.

When you join us, you become part of a supportive, ambitious community that invests in its people and develops high-calibre professionals. We foster kindness, inclusivity and high expectations, and we welcome colleagues who want to make a meaningful difference every day.

What We Offer

Health & Wellbeing

• Free annual flu vaccines
• Discounted gym memberships
• 24/7 counselling helpline
• Annual Wellbeing Day*
• Generous holiday allowance
• Flexible working solutions
• Optional health and fitness schemes*

Financial

• Discounts and cashback at hundreds of retailers
• Excellent Pension Schemes, including 21.3% employer contributions for support staff
• Cycle to Work and Tech Schemes*

Career Progression

• Instructional Coaching for teaching roles
• Supportive performance development
• Apprenticeship and training opportunities
• Internal progression pathways
• Recognition and long-service awards

*Please note some allowances are only applicable on completion of a successful probation.

Please note if we receive sufficient applications, we may close this job role earlier.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. If you need adjustments to support your application, please contact the Recruitment Team on 01793 781485 or [e-mail]