IT Technician and Operations Support

Location: Atelier 21 Future School, Crawley

Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

Contract: Full-time, permanent (5 days a week, all year round)

Start Date: ASAP

Line Manager: James Ashcroft, Executive Head of Atelier 21

About Us

Atelier 21 Future School is a pioneering educational institution, uniquely designed to foster a dynamic environment where creativity, innovation, and technological integration are central to everything we do. At Atelier 21, we believe that the future of education lies in embracing new technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), to enhance both the learning process and the operational efficiency of the school. Our educational approach is forward-thinking, embracing the use of cutting-edge tools and resources to prepare our students for the rapidly changing world.

Our school is built on the idea that education should be a collaborative process, where both students and staff work together to push boundaries, explore new possibilities, and engage with technology in ways that enrich the educational experience. As we continue to innovate, we are looking for an enthusiastic IT Technician and Operations Support professional to help us manage our IT systems and ensure our operations run smoothly.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about technology to play a key role in an environment that values creativity and the transformative power of technology. If you are eager to be a part of an innovative school, where your skills will have a direct and lasting impact, this is the opportunity for you.

Key Responsibilities

IT Systems Management

• Filtering and Safeguarding: Implement, monitor, and manage filtering and safeguarding software to ensure compliance with safeguarding policies and track student internet usage.
• First-Line IT Support: Provide first-line technical support to resolve IT issues efficiently and minimize any disruption to the school's activities.
• Hardware, Software, and Network Maintenance: Manage and maintain various IT systems, including hardware, software, and network infrastructures such as Wi-Fi, servers, and devices to ensure their smooth and continuous operation.
• Equipment Management: Oversee the purchasing, installation, and maintenance of IT equipment, including laptops, projectors, printers, and interactive displays, ensuring they are always in optimal working condition.
• Data Security and Backup: Implement robust data security practices, perform regular backups, and maintain compliance with GDPR requirements.
• Exam Support: Provide IT support during examinations, including software setup, troubleshooting, and ensuring everything runs seamlessly.
• Software Updates: Regularly update software such as Office 365, educational platforms, and learning management systems to ensure that all systems are up to date and functioning efficiently.
• AI Integration: Play an active role in the integration of AI and emerging technologies into the school’s teaching and operational workflows to enhance both the learning experience and the school’s overall performance.

Education and Training

• Staff IT Support and Training: Offer comprehensive IT support and training to staff, helping them develop and refine their digital skills, enabling them to integrate technology into their teaching and operations effectively.
• AI Workshops: Lead sessions on using AI tools to improve teaching workflows and streamline operational processes, promoting a tech-savvy culture within the school.
• Resource Creation: Develop and provide instructional materials, guides, and resources to help staff understand and effectively use various IT systems and tools.
• Student Engagement: Occasionally engage with students by delivering IT training sessions, helping them enhance their digital literacy and skills for the future.

Operational Support

• Daily Operations Assistance: Assist the Operations Manager in ensuring that daily operations are running smoothly, which includes supporting facilities management, compliance, and event organization.
• Collaboration with Colleagues: Work closely with colleagues across the school to ensure that all operational processes are coordinated efficiently, ensuring seamless functioning of both academic and administrative tasks.
• School Holiday Support: Provide additional operational support during school holidays, prioritizing the specific needs of Atelier 21 during these periods.
• Support for Little Barn Owls (LBO): Offer operational support for our sister company, Little Barn Owls, as required, ensuring smooth operations across both entities.

Essential Requirements

• Experience in IT Support: Proven experience in IT support roles, including troubleshooting, system maintenance, and hardware/software installation.
• Strong IT Knowledge: In-depth understanding of IT infrastructure, including Wi-Fi, servers, networking, and cloud platforms.
• Familiarity with AI: A strong familiarity with AI technologies, particularly their application in educational or operational contexts, and the ability to integrate these into school systems.
• Problem-Solving Abilities: Exceptional problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently and resolve issues effectively.
• Excellent Communication Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills to liaise effectively with staff, students, and external partners, ensuring that IT issues and operational needs are understood and addressed in a timely manner.
• Budget Management: Ability to manage and control IT budgets efficiently, ensuring cost-effective procurement of equipment and software.

Desirable Skills

• Educational Experience: Experience in an educational environment, with an understanding of how IT systems and technologies can support learning and teaching.
• Safeguarding Knowledge: A solid understanding of safeguarding standards and IT policies within schools to ensure that all technology use complies with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Exam Software Familiarity: Experience with exam software and familiarity with associated compliance protocols, ensuring smooth and secure IT systems during examination periods.
• Office 365 Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 administration and management, ensuring all staff and students have access to necessary resources and support.
• ISAMs and CPOMs: Experience working with systems such as ISAMs and CPOMs, which support school management and safeguarding.

Why Join Us?

• Innovative Work Environment: Be part of a forward-thinking, cutting-edge school at the forefront of educational innovation and the integration of emerging technologies.
• Supportive Team: Join a supportive, collaborative team committed to the professional growth and development of its members.
• Professional Development: Access to continuous professional development and training, helping you grow in your role and enhance your technical expertise.