Personal Assistant to the Deputy Head and to the SENDCo

Hurst Lodge is looking to recruit a full time Personal Assistant (PA) to the Deputy Head and to the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator (SENDCo).

As the Personal Assistant (PA), you will provide high-level administrative and secretarial support to both roles. Your primary responsibilities will include managing diaries, coordinating meetings, handling correspondence, and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations in line with the school’s objectives and the needs of the students. You will play a key role in supporting the Deputy Head and the Lead SENDCo.

Key Responsibilities

Administrative Support

• Provide comprehensive administrative assistance to both the Deputy Head and SENDCo.
• Manage diaries, book meetings, and schedule appointments, ensuring efficient time management.
• Prepare, format, and manage correspondence, reports, and documents as required.
• Screen phone calls, emails, and inquiries, redirecting or responding as appropriate.
• Draft communications on behalf of the Deputy Head and SENDCo.

Meeting Coordination

• Organise meetings for the Deputy Head and SENDCo, including preparing agendas, distributing documents, and taking minutes.
• Follow up on action points from meetings to ensure timely completion.
• Liaise with external stakeholders, parents, and staff in relation to meetings or other relevant discussions.

Communication and Liaison

• Act as a key point of contact for the Deputy Head and SENDCo, handling enquiries from staff, parents, and external agencies.
• Assist with communication between staff, parents, and outside agencies involved in SEND support.
• Facilitate communication and collaboration between teaching staff and the SEND department.

Event and Project Support

• Assist with the organisation of school events, open days, and special projects led by the Deputy Head or SENDCo.
• Support the planning and execution of SEND-related events such as parent workshops, training sessions, or external visits.

General Office Duties

• Ensure the efficient operation of the office, managing office supplies and equipment.
• Maintain and organise files, ensuring confidentiality and security of sensitive information.
• Assist with ad-hoc tasks or projects as required by the Deputy Head or SENDCo.

Person Specification

• Qualifications and Experience:
• Previous experience as a PA or in a similar administrative role, preferably within an educational setting.
• Experience working with or supporting SEND processes is desirable.
• Excellent IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant school management software.

• Skills and Competencies:
• Strong organisational skills and ability to prioritise tasks efficiently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and use initiative.
• Attention to detail, accuracy, and problem-solving abilities.
• Confidentiality and sensitivity in dealing with matters relating to SEN and school administration.

• Personal Qualities:
• Adaptability and the ability to work well in a busy and dynamic environment.
• A proactive approach to supporting the needs of the Deputy Head, SENDCo, and the school community.
• Empathy and understanding towards students with special educational needs.

Equal Opportunities Statement

Hurst Lodge School is committed to promoting equality and diversity within our community. We aim to provide an inclusive and supportive environment, where every individual is respected, and their contributions are valued. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are dedicated to ensuring that our recruitment process and workplace reflect our commitment to equal opportunity for all. We do not discriminate based on age, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, or any other protected characteristic.

All successful candidates must complete all safer recruitment checks including an Enhanced DBS.