PA to the Headteacher - Secondary School - Hackney (London)

A well-respected secondary school in Hackney is seeking an organised, discreet and highly capable PA to the Headteacher to provide essential administrative and operational support at the heart of the school. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced PA or senior administrator to work closely with the Headteacher and leadership team, helping the school run smoothly through strong organisation, communication and professionalism.

The school serves a diverse local community and is known for its clear systems, positive culture and strong focus on student outcomes and wellbeing. The PA role is central to the effectiveness of senior leadership, ensuring priorities are managed efficiently and confidentially.

The Role

As PA to the Headteacher , you will provide high-level administrative support, ensuring the Headteacher’s time, communication and key responsibilities are managed effectively. Key duties will include:

• Managing the Headteacher’s diary, scheduling meetings and coordinating priorities

• Preparing agendas, papers and supporting documentation for meetings

• Taking minutes and following up actions where appropriate

• Acting as a professional first point of contact for internal and external communications

• Drafting correspondence and managing sensitive information with discretion

• Supporting organisation of key events such as open evenings, staff briefings and parent meetings

• Liaising with senior leaders, governors, parents and external agencies in a professional manner

This role requires excellent attention to detail, strong initiative and the confidence to manage competing priorities in a busy school environment.

The Team

You will work closely with the Headteacher, senior leadership team and wider school office, acting as a trusted and reliable point of support. The admin team is collaborative and professional, with clear processes and a shared commitment to safeguarding, confidentiality and delivering a high-quality service.

The school values calm, solution-focused working and provides support and training to ensure you feel confident with systems, policies and the pace of school life.

The School

The school has a positive, purposeful culture supported by consistent routines and clear expectations. Leaders are visible and supportive, and staff work within established systems that help the school operate efficiently.

Safeguarding and confidentiality are central to the school’s work. The successful candidate will be expected to uphold professional boundaries, manage sensitive information carefully and maintain a calm, professional approach at all times.

What the School is Looking For

The successful candidate will:

• Have strong experience in a PA, executive support or senior administrative role

• Be highly organised, proactive and confident managing a busy workload

• Demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Handle confidential information with discretion, professionalism and sensitivity

• Be confident using IT systems (email, calendars, spreadsheets and document tools)

• Work effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, including senior leaders and external contacts

• Remain calm, adaptable and solution-focused in a fast-paced environment

Experience in a school setting is desirable but not essential for candidates with strong PA or executive support experience.

Why Join This School

• Key role supporting the Headteacher and senior leadership

• Professional and supportive admin culture with clear systems

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on school organisation and communication

• Work in a diverse and vibrant Hackney community

• Supportive leadership and a positive school environment

This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled PA who wants to play a central role in supporting senior leadership and helping a successful Hackney secondary school run smoothly every day.