Receptionist | Secondary School in Havering

School Receptionist & Front of House Administrator (ASAP Start) Location: Havering, East/Outer London School Type: Outstanding Secondary School & Sixth Form (Co-educational, Ages 11–18) Contract: Full-Time, Permanent (Immediate / ASAP Start) Hours: 36 hours per week, Term Time + 1 Week (39 weeks per year) An Ofsted-rated 'Outstanding' secondary school and Sixth Form in the London Borough of Havering is seeking a welcoming, highly organized, and articulate School Receptionist & Front of House Administrator to join their core administrative team for an immediate (ASAP) start. Situated in a thriving Outer London borough known for its green open spaces and strong community spirit, this front-line appointment offers an exciting opportunity for an experienced receptionist, customer service professional, or school administrator to serve as the primary ambassador for the school. About the Role Stepping into the main reception suite this term, you will be the face and voice of the school, delivering an exceptional first impression to parents, visitors, contractors, and local community stakeholders. Working in a fast-paced, professional environment, you will manage incoming communications, oversee visitor access systems, support daily attendance logging, and provide crucial administrative support to the senior leadership team and office staff. Your warm demeanor, sharp attention to detail, and calm composure under pressure will keep daily school operations running smoothly. Environment: A welcoming, high-spec administrative suite featuring modern visitor management software, multi-line telephone systems, digital record archives, and a secure access control hub Culture: A collaborative, professional, and community-oriented working environment focused on high standards of customer service, statutory safeguarding compliance, and operational excellence Key Responsibilities Manage the main school reception desk warmly and efficiently, greeting visitors, checking credentials, issuing security badges, and managing digital visitor sign-in logs in accordance with strict safeguarding policies. Operationally manage incoming telephone queries and general email inboxes, filtering and directing messages accurately to relevant staff members and departmental leads. Support daily student attendance administration, logging late arrivals, handling parental absence notifications, and updating the Management Information System (MIS - e.g., SIMS, Arbor, or Bromcom). Handle incoming and outgoing mail, deliveries, courier services, and general administrative requests from staff and leadership. Provide front-of-house logistical support for key school events, including parent consultation evenings, open days, visitor tours, and staff training sessions. Requirements Demonstrable experience in a reception, front-of-house, administrative, or customer-facing role (prior experience in an educational or public sector environment is highly desirable). Proficiency in IT applications, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and confidence using school databases/MIS systems (e.g., SIMS, Arbor, Bromcom). Excellent verbal and written communication skills with an immaculate phone manner and professional customer service approach. High level of organizational skill, strong multi-tasking capability, and the ability to maintain confidentiality and professional discretion at all times. Knowledge of school safeguarding procedures and visitor access safety protocols. Salary & Benefits Pay Scale: Outer London Support Staff Scale (commensurate with administrative experience and qualifications). Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), generous term-time working pattern, structured administrative CPD, access to staff wellness programs, and free on-site parking. How to Apply If you are a proactive and personable administrative professional ready to join an Outstanding school team in Havering immediately, we encourage you to apply without delay. Please submit your completed application form and CV for immediate consideration.