School Receptionist | Secondary Academy | Birmingham

The Opportunity

Birmingham is a city of incredible diversity and rapid regeneration, standing as a major European hub for commerce, culture, and education. We are seeking a professional, welcoming, and highly organized School Receptionist to join a vibrant secondary academy in the heart of the city. As the first point of contact for students, parents, and the wider community, you will be the "face of the school," ensuring that every interaction reflects the academy's values of ambition and inclusivity.

The Environment & Professional Culture

• You will be based in a modern, high-traffic reception area, managing the daily flow of a large and diverse school community.

• The academy prides itself on being a "community hub," meaning the reception team plays a critical role in fostering positive relationships with families and local stakeholders.

• You will join a collaborative administrative suite that utilizes advanced school management software to ensure the safety and organization of the site.

• As an urban academy, we offer a fast-paced and rewarding environment where no two days are the same, providing ample opportunity to develop skills in high-level administration and public relations.

Core Responsibilities

1. Front-of-House Excellence: Acting as the primary point of contact for all visitors, ensuring a warm welcome while maintaining strict safeguarding and sign-in procedures.

2. Communication Management: Overseeing a busy switchboard, directing calls efficiently, and managing the main school email account with professionalism and discretion.

3. Student & Parent Liaison: Assisting students with daily inquiries and acting as a vital link between the school and parents regarding attendance, appointments, and general school updates.

4. Administrative Support: Utilizing the School Information Management System (SIMS) to update student records, track attendance, and assist with the production of school bulletins and letters.

5. Safeguarding & Security: Monitoring the school’s secure entry systems and ensuring that all visitors are vetted in accordance with the school’s "Keeping Children Safe in Education" protocols.

The Successful Candidate We are looking for a resilient professional who can balance a friendly demeanor with the ability to handle a busy workload. Requirements include:

• Administrative Experience: Previous experience in a reception or customer-facing role; experience within an educational or public sector setting is highly advantageous.

• Technical Proficiency: Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook). Familiarity with school databases like SIMS or Arbor is a plus.

• Exceptional Communication: The ability to communicate clearly and empathetically with a wide range of people, including those for whom English may be an additional language.

• Calm Under Pressure: A proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to remain composed during the morning and afternoon "rush" periods.

Why Join Us?

• A pivotal role within a supportive and forward-thinking academy that values the contribution of its support staff.

• Access to comprehensive training in safeguarding, data protection (GDPR), and specialized school administration software.

• The opportunity to work in Birmingham—a city offering world-class amenities, excellent transport links (New Street and Moor Street), and a rich, multicultural lifestyle.

• A friendly, diverse workplace where your organizational skills directly contribute to a safe and positive learning environment for young people.

How to Apply

Please submit your current CV and a brief summary of your experience in high-volume administrative roles to begin the application process.