Ruthin School is proud to welcome a high number of international boarders each year, with a strong representation from China and Hong Kong. For many, this is their first time living away from home in a new cultural and academic environment. This role plays a crucial part in helping those students feel supported, understood and well cared for from the moment they receive their acceptance letter to the day they settle into school life. By offering language support, pastoral oversight and friendly / practical help, the Student Liaison Officer helps to bridge the gap between home and school, ensuring families feel confident and informed, and that students thrive both socially and academically.
Main Purpose of the Role:
To support international boarders - particularly those from China and Hong Kong - from pre-arrival through to post-enrolment, acting as a key contact for families, agents and students. The role provides practical, pastoral and administrative support to ensure smooth transitions and a high standard of welfare for all pupils, regardless of nationality.
Key Responsibilities:
Pre-arrival:
Liaise with families and agents during the admissions and enrolment process
Support travel booking arrangements and arrival logistics
Translate or clarify school joining instructions where needed
Provide welcome and onboarding communications in English and Mandarin
Arrival & Induction:
Coordinate / attend airport pick-ups
Support with induction processes such as uniform fitting, SIM cards, or initial health appointments
Offer reassurance and settling-in support to students and families
Ongoing Support:
Act as a familiar contact for students to approach with personal, cultural or practical issues
Regularly check in with boarders and report concerns to House Staff / HoB or DSL
Help international pupils navigate routines, expectations and school communications
Celebrate cultural events and help integrate international students into wider school life
Communication & Admin:
Work with Admissions to support international recruitment and onboarding
Maintain records of contact with students, families and agents
Translate key communications from school for families as/if needed
Assist with occasional WeChat or Mandarin-language parent communication
Person Specification:
Essential:
Fluency in Mandarin Chinese (spoken and written)
Excellent written and spoken English
Experience working with young people in a pastoral or educational setting
Strong organisational and administrative skills
Warm, calm, confidential and approachable manner
Desirable:
Additional Cantonese language skills
Experience in an independent or boarding school
Familiarity with platforms such as iSAMS or a similar
Working Hours:
Monday-Friday (with flexibility needed around student arrival weekends and departure days - term time only with option to support holiday camps in school holidays).
Occasional evening or weekend availability may be required for travel support.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: 25,000.00-28,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Company pension
Discounted or free food
Free parking
On-site parking
Sick pay
Schedule: