Cover Manager & Administrative Assistant
Job overview
Channing School is seeking to appoint a highly organised and proactive Cover Manager and Administrative Assistant to join the Junior School on a full-time permanent basis from September 2026. This is a pivotal administrative role focused on ensuring the smooth and efficient day-to-day running of the school through the effective coordination of staff cover, timetabling and wider administrative support.
The successful candidate will oversee all aspects of daily cover arrangements for teaching and support staff, ensuring continuity of high-quality learning experiences for pupils when staff are absent. This includes managing planned and unplanned absences, coordinating internal and external cover staff, maintaining accurate records, and supporting the organisation of trips, clubs, events and wider school operations. The role also includes broader administrative responsibilities, working closely with the Junior School Senior Leadership Team to support the effective functioning of the school.
We are looking for a dynamic, calm and solution-focused individual with excellent organisational, communication and problem-solving skills. The successful applicant will demonstrate strong administrative experience, particularly in managing complex daily logistics such as timetabling and staffing coordination.
The ideal candidate will be collaborative, adaptable and professional, with the ability to respond effectively to changing priorities and unforeseen situations under pressure. Experience working within an educational environment or alongside primary-aged children is desirable but not essential. A commitment to safeguarding, confidentiality and supporting the values and ethos of the school is essential.
Channing Junior School is an intellectually vibrant and nurturing environment where responsibility, empathy, resilience, curiosity and independence are central to school life. Staff benefit from a supportive culture, excellent professional development opportunities and the chance to contribute meaningfully to the wider life of the school community.
For further information, please refer to the Job Description document provided.
Hours:
• Full time, permanent
• Monday to Friday, term time only plus INSET days
• Working hours: 7.00am – 3.00pm
Start date: September 2026
Salary & Benefits:
• Salary in the region of £28,329 – £31,599 per annum, dependent on experience and qualifications
• Enrolment into the APTIS pension scheme (10% employer contribution)
• Free lunch and refreshments during term time
• Access to excellent CPD and training opportunities
• Supportive and collaborative working environment
• Opportunity to contribute to the wider life of the school community
How to Apply:
Please complete the TES application form by clicking on Apply below. CVs will not be accepted in place of a completed application form.
If you are unable to submit your application via TES, please email recruitment@channing.co.uk.
Deadline for applications: 9am, Tuesday 9 June 2026
Interviews: Friday 19 June 2026
Safeguarding commitment
Channing School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The school follows safer recruitment procedures in line with current safeguarding guidance and all appointments are subject to appropriate pre-employment checks.
Subject to statutory provisions, no applicant will be treated less favourably than another on the grounds of a protected characteristic as defined in the Equality Act. Ability to perform the role will be the primary consideration.
In line with our Safer Recruitment Policy, all shortlisted candidates will be subject to online searches, including social media and third-party Safehire.