Communications Officer (Maternity Cover)

Welcome to Reach Academy Feltham. 

We’ve created a community of pupils, parents and teachers united by the highest expectations of what every young person can achieve and the commitment to do whatever it takes to help them get there.

Role overview:

We believe that great communication is more like a path than an event. Great communication is conversation—less monologue; more dialogue.

Because dialogue creates connection, connection begets trust, and trust strengthens engagement and improves outcomes. It sounds simple—but simple isn’t always easy.

Fundamentally, the role of the Communications Officer is to ensure that everything that is communicated by Reach Schools (both internal and externally) aligns with our brand—i.e. who we authentically are; what we stand for and how we behave.

Our Communications Officer will play a pivotal role in effectively conveying Reach Schools’ priorities, building relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, and championing our successes along the way.

Role Details:

Reports to: Director of Partnerships and Communications, Reach Schools

Start date: 1st December 2024 (or as soon as possible thereafter)

Salary: £30-40k per annum

Contract term: Fixed term maternity cover

Location: Feltham, with the option to work from home flexibly

We embrace flexible working and welcome applications from those wishing to work flexibly. 

Personal specification:

Required:

● Strong communication skills: This role demands excellent verbal and written communication abilities. You should be able to articulate ideas clearly, engage different audiences effectively, and create compelling content for various communication channels, such as newsletters, press releases, social media, and internal communications.

● Adaptability and flexibility: Schools offer delightfully dynamic environments where priorities can change rapidly. Being adaptable and flexible will allow you to handle unexpected challenges and adjustments to communication strategies with ease.

● Creativity and innovation: Developing engaging communication requires creativity. You should be able to think outside the box, come up with fresh ideas, and innovate in your approach to storytelling and branding.

● Strong organisational and time management skills: You should be willing and able to juggle multiple projects simultaneously. Strong organisational and time management skills are essential for meeting deadlines, prioritising tasks effectively, and maintaining a consistent workflow. Desired:

● Media and public relations knowledge: A foundational understanding of media and public relations would be beneficial for this role. The ideal candidate will be familiar with how the media works, be able to build relationships with journalists, and handle press inquiries professionally.

● Visual design skills: Proficiency in basic visual design software and an eye for aesthetics would be a valuable asset. Being able to create visually appealing graphics, infographics, and multimedia content enhances the effectiveness of communication materials across various platforms.

About the Process - How to apply:

1. Please read our ‘Safer recruitment’ statement at the end of the job pack.
2. Follow this link to complete an online application form. 
3. The deadline for application is Thursday 31st October 2024 at 5pm. We actively encourage early applications. Applications will be reviewed as and when they are received.
4. Suitable candidates will be contacted and invited to attend a virtual/telephone screening.
5. In-person interviews will be held during the weeks immediately following and preceding the application deadline detailed above.

If you would like to have an informal conversation to discuss the role, please contact our Director of Partnerships and Communications, Sarah Bainbridge, directly on sarah.bainbridge@reachacademy.org.uk.