Personal Assistant to the Headteacher & SLT

Thorpe Hall School; Southend-on-Sea; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

An independent school in Southend-on-Sea is seeking a Personal Assistant to provide exceptional administrative support to the Senior Leadership Team. This role requires excellent organisational and communication skills, discretion, and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively. The successful candidate will be involved in diary management, meeting coordination, and stakeholder communication within a respected independent school environment. Offering a competitive salary and benefits, this is an opportunity to contribute to strategic initiatives and work closely with senior leaders.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Opportunity to work closely with senior leaders

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Personal Assistant or in a similar senior administrative role.
• Experience of working in a school/education setting.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive administrative support to the SLT, including diary management.
• Prepare agendas, minutes, and reports for leadership meetings.
• Act as a key liaison between the SLT and stakeholders.

Skills

Exceptional organisational and time-management skills

Strong written and verbal communication abilities

High level of discretion and professionalism

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Job description

We are seeking a highly organised and proactive Personal Assistant to provide exceptional administrative and strategic support to our Senior Leadership Team (SLT). This is a pivotal role requiring discretion, professionalism, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced setting.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive administrative support to the SLT, including diary management, meeting coordination, and correspondence.
• Prepare agendas, minutes, and reports for leadership and governance meetings.
• Act as a key liaison between the SLT and internal/external stakeholders.
• Manage confidential information with the utmost integrity.
• Support strategic projects and school events as required.

Requirements

• Exceptional organisational and time‑management skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• High level of discretion and professionalism.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and confidence with digital tools.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proven experience as a Personal Assistant or in a similar senior administrative role.
• Experience of working in a school/education setting.

About the School

Thorpe Hall is a non‑selective co‑educational day school of 500 pupils from Nursery to Year 11. The school is situated on a generous site on the outskirts of Southend‑on‑Sea and has an excellent reputation as one of the leading independent schools in the area. More information about the school and the school's prospectus can be found on our website: https://www.thorpehall.southend.sch.uk/

Additional Information

• All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.
• Be part of a respected independent school with a strong sense of community.
• Opportunity to work closely with senior leaders and contribute to strategic initiatives.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.