A modern secondary academy in Oxford is seeking an articulate, personable First Contact Receptionist to manage its main reception desk and visitor entrance for an immediate (ASAP) start.

Job Overview

The main reception desk plays a prominent role in the school’s daily security, public relations, and communications. The successful applicant will serve as the primary point of contact for face-to-face visitors, telephone callers, delivery personnel, and contractor check-ins.

Working closely with the administrative team and safeguarding officers, you will manage visitor sign-in procedures, handle incoming phone calls, manage school email inboxes, and assist with general office duties. This is a full-time, ongoing or permanent role.

Key Responsibilities

• Greet all visitors, parents, contractors, and official guests warmly while enforcing strict safeguarding sign-in protocols

• Operate the main school telephone switchboard, filtering calls and taking clear, accurate messages for staff

• Manage the main school email inbox, directing queries to relevant departments and senior leaders

• Issue visitor badges, verify DBS identification for external callers, and manage reception security gates

• Receive, log, and distribute daily post, deliveries, and courier packages across the campus

• Provide general administrative support, such as student message delivery and emergency first-aid logging

Role Overview & Specifications

• Start Date: Immediate (ASAP)

• Contract Type: Full-time, long-term or permanent (Term-Time Only)

• Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire

• Salary / Pay Rate: Scale 3–4 equivalent

• Key Systems: Visitor Management Software / SIMS / Arbor

Candidate Requirements

• Prior experience in a busy reception or front-of-house administrative role (school environment highly desirable)

• Excellent verbal communication skills with a polite, professional, and welcoming telephone manner

• Strong IT literacy (Microsoft Office, email systems, and familiarity with school databases like SIMS/Arbor)

• Knowledge of school safeguarding visitor protocols and emergency procedures

• An active enhanced DBS check on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)

How to Apply: Please send your CV at your earliest convenience to be considered for this First Contact Receptionist position in Oxford for an immediate start.