Job Description

Hanford Prep have an exciting opportunity for a dynamic and experienced personal assistant to join our community as PA to the Head and School Secretary from October 2025. The role is term time only.

Hanford Prep is a rural day and boarding school for girls age 7 - 13, set in the beautiful Dorset countryside near Blandford Forum. The PA to the Head/School Secretary is a vital role, acting as a first point of contact for parents, staff, pupils and visitors. The School is part of the Sherborne Schools Group.

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. All successful applicants' appointment will be subject to successful completion of a probationary period and full pre-employment checks.

The principal function of this role is to ensure the efficient and smooth running of the Head's Office, providing her with strategic, operational and administrative support, and ensuring day-to-day pressures on her are alleviated so she can focus clearly and strategically to lead a thriving school.

The ideal candidate will have a calm and and assured demeanour with a high degree of enthusiasm and commitment.

Duties will include

Organising and effectively running the Head's office, proactively anticipating and pre-empting work. Managing all communication (telephone calls, emails, written correspondence, meetings etc.) on behalf of the Head, using initiative and a proactive approach when drafting general replies. Using the Outlook Calendar to manage multiple diaries to facilitate the Head accessing members of staff as and when necessary.

Qualifications and Experience required

Substantial experience working as a personal assistant, executive assistant, or secretary at a senior level. Evidence of working effectively and calmly under pressure. Extremely high degree of computer literacy with experience of Microsoft office, Teams, Word and Excel. Ability to understand and work to both strategic and operational needs
For further information and to apply, please visit the vacancy page on our school website www.hanfordprep.com

Early applications are encouraged as we would like to secure the right appointment as soon as possible and reserve the right to interview and appoint candidates prior to the closing date.

The closing date for applications is 9am, Friday 10 October 2025.

Interviews will be held on week commencing 13 October 2025.

Job Types: Permanent, Part-time

Benefits:

Additional leave Canteen Company pension Cycle to work scheme Discounted or free food Employee discount Enhanced maternity leave Free flu jabs Gym membership Health & wellbeing programme Life insurance On-site gym On-site parking Sick pay
Work Location: In person