Job Description

Join one of the UK's most innovative schools

Are you a dynamic, strategic thinker with a passion for education and a flair for building relationships? Bedales School, one of the UK's most forward-thinking independent schools, is looking for an energetic and visionary Director of Admissions & Marketing to lead and shape our student recruitment strategies and admissions processes.


This is a unique opportunity for an experienced leader to step into a high-profile role at an exceptional school, renowned for its creativity, individuality, and commitment to academic excellence. As a key member of our Senior Leadership Team, you'll be at the heart of a collaborative and forward-looking school community, guiding Bedales' marketing and student recruitment efforts across our Senior, Prep, and Pre-prep divisions.


As the Director of Admissions & Marketing, you will continue the work of the outgoing Director of Admissions and be responsible for developing and executing new innovative marketing and recruitment strategies both nationally and internationally that generate interest in Bedales and ensure we maintain full capacity across all year groups. From lead generation to enrolment, you'll oversee the entire admissions process, delivering a seamless and high-quality experience that reflects our distinctive ethos - 'the work of each for weal of all'.


This role offers the chance to truly shape the future of the school, working closely as part of our leadership team and community to attract families who align with our values. Your efforts will be central to maintaining the school's exceptional reputation as a leader in independent education.

What we're looking for

We're searching for a proactive, engaging, and results-oriented individual who thrives in a senior leadership role and has a strong background in marketing, admissions, or a similar field. You will be an articulate and persuasive ambassador for Bedales, with the ability to communicate our distinctive ethos and vision to a wide range of audiences.


The successful candidate will have:

A proven track record in leadership, with experience in managing marketing and/or admissions, ideally in an educational setting (though transferable skills from other sectors will also be considered). Exceptional communication skills - both written and verbal - with the ability to engage with a variety of stakeholders, from prospective families to colleagues. A natural empathy with young people, understanding the importance of fostering strong relationships and creating a welcoming environment for all. Strong organisational skills with the ability to oversee multiple projects simultaneously, balancing strategic thinking with hands-on, day-to-day responsibilities. Tact and diplomacy in handling difficult conversations and decision-making, always with a focus on collaboration and respect.

Why Bedales?

Bedales is set in the stunning Hampshire countryside, offering a distinctive educational experience that nurtures questioning, divergent thinking, and the freedom to learn from mistakes. At the heart of our success is our unique sense of community, where every voice is heard, respected, and valued. The relationships we cultivate between staff, students, and families are founded on authenticity, trust, and a shared commitment to personal growth and academic achievement.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and shape the school's admissions strategy, ensuring it aligns with Bedales' ethos and goals. Oversee marketing efforts that effectively communicate the school's unique strengths and values for both national and international markets. Manage and refine the entire recruitment process from initial inquiry to enrolment, ensuring an outstanding experience for prospective families. Build and nurture strong relationships with key stakeholders, including prospective and current families, staff, alumni, and feeder schools. Provide strategic leadership as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to Bedales' growth and future direction.

Experience & Background

We are looking for a leader with a wealth of experience in managing high-performing teams, a deep understanding of the independent school sector (or transferable expertise from related fields), and a genuine passion for education. You should be an energetic, empathetic, and persuasive communicator, with the confidence to represent Bedales at all levels.


This is more than just a job; it's an opportunity to be part of something truly special. If you're ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role in a school that champions creativity, individuality, and academic excellence, we'd love to hear from you.

Salary

The salary will be dependent on experience and will be commensurate with the seniority and level of responsibility for this role. The post holder will be automatically enrolled in the School's pension scheme.

Benefits

Funded Healthcare Cash Plan


Pension with Royal London


Life Assurance


Salary Extras Benefits Platform


Employee Assistance Programme


Free lunch is provided during term time


Free on-site parking


Sport facilities are available for staff use

Pre-Appointment Checks

All candidates will undergo a Safeguarding Suitability Interview and application for an Enhanced DBS and Barred List check and be asked to provide evidence they are eligible to work in the UK, on an on-going basis, at the shortlist stage of the selection process.

How to Apply

If you are interested in applying for this post, please read the which includes full details regarding the post. In line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidelines, CVs cannot be accepted in lieu of a fully completed application form.

Closing date: 09:00am Monday 30 June 2025

Interview date: Wednesday 2 July 2025

Early application is advised as Bedales reserve the right to make an appointment at any stage of the application process.


To find out more about this opportunity, candidates can contact Will Goldsmith, Head of Bedales School, by email to wgoldsmith@bedales.org.uk. or Rob Reynolds, External Relations Director rreynolds@bedales.org.uk


All other enquiries relating to the recruitment process should be forwarded to recruitment@bedales.org.uk

Safeguarding Statement:

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Candidates will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), Prohibition from Teaching Checks, Prohibition from Management Checks.


The safeguarding responsibilities of the post include:

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children; fostering a culture of openness, safety, equality and protection; providing a safe and welcoming environment where both children and adults feel secure, able to talk and believe that they are being listened to; playing a key role in prevention of harm and an equal responsibility to act on any suspicion or disclosure that may indicate a child is at risk of harm; When concerned about the welfare of a pupil, acting in the best interests of the pupil.

All staff have a key role to play in identifying concerns early and in providing help for children and are expected to act in accordance with the school Safeguarding & Child Protection Policies.


The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the School is therefore permitted to ask job candidates to declare all convictions and cautions (including those which are "spent" unless they are "protected" under the DBS filtering rules) in order to assess their suitability to work with children.