Dorset Council UK
Office Manager at Lilliput CE Infant School
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Office Manager
Lilliput CE Infant School
Part of Coastal Learning Partnership
Start Date: September 2026 (or as soon as possible thereafter)
Salary: Grade 5 SCP 10-15 (£27,694 - £30,024 FTE)
Hours: 29 hours per week, term time plus INSETS plus 1 week (40 weeks)
Closing Date: Sunday 6 September 2026
Interview: Friday 11 September 2026
We are seeking to appoint a dedicated and personable Office Manager to join our warm, welcoming and highly skilled team as soon as possible. At Lilliput, we are proud of our inclusive and supportive environment, where professionals work collaboratively, encourage one another, and celebrate successes together.
The successful candidate will be a highly organised, proactive and personable individual. This is a key leadership role, central to the smooth running of the school. The Office Manager will take responsibility for the development, management and delivery of essential support services, including HR administration, communications and line management of the office and wraparound care staff. Your leadership will provide an outstanding front-of-house experience, ensuring that all pupils, parents, staff and visitors receive a professional, efficient and genuinely warm welcome.
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Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the day-to-day running of the school office
- Oversee HR administration, including payroll, contracts and record keeping
- Deliver an excellent reception and administrative service
- Manage communications with parents, carers and external stakeholders
- Line-manage and develop administrative and wraparound staff
- Maintain key systems including pupil data, MIS returns and the Single Central Register
- Support admissions, census processes and parental payments
- Contribute to newsletters, website updates and school communications
- Ensure compliance with safeguarding, health & safety and data protection requirements
About You
We are looking for someone who:
- Is positive, friendly and approachable, building strong relationships with staff, pupils and parents
- Consistently upholds and reflects the school’s culture and values in all interactions
- Is a committed team player, working collaboratively and supporting colleagues across the school
- Is open to new ideas and innovative ways of working, and embraces change positively
- Has experience in a school or busy administrative environment
- Can lead, support and develop a team effectively
- Is highly organised and able to prioritise competing demands
- Communicates confidently and professionally with a wide range of stakeholders
- Demonstrates integrity, discretion and attention to detail
- Has strong ICT and administrative skills
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Why Join Lilliput CE Infant School?
- A welcoming, supportive and highly motivated staff team
- A school with a strong sense of community and shared purpose
- Opportunities for professional development and collaboration across the Trust
- A rewarding role at the heart of school life
Please visit the school website for further information about the school www.lilliput.poole.sch.uk or email the school office if you have queries regarding the role.
Closing Date: 6 September 2026, however applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, and we may close this vacancy early if suitable candidates are identified
Interviews: 11 September 2026
In accordance with our safer recruitment practices, CVs from external candidates will not be accepted.
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