Admissions Assistant

About Downsend School

Downsend School is a forward-thinking independent school that prepares young people for a rapidly evolving world. From Little Downsend Nursery to our thriving Sixth Form, we nurture children aged 6 months to 18 years with a creative, problem-solving approach to education. With five campuses across Ashtead, Epsom, and Leatherhead, we embrace innovation, think big, and inspire students to be changemakers.

We are part of Cognita, a global education group with 100+ schools across 16 countries, serving more than 85,000 students. At Cognita, our shared purpose is simple yet powerful: to ensure everyone can thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

The Role: Admissions Assistant

We are seeking a proactive, personable, and detail-oriented Admissions Assistant to join our exceptional team. Reporting directly to the Admissions Manager, this role supports the full admissions process from Nursery to Sixth Form.

As the first point of contact for many families, you will play a key role in shaping the first impressions of our school. You will manage enquiries, arrange visits and open events, and maintain accurate admissions data. Your dedication to outstanding customer service will ensure every prospective family experiences a warm, informative, and seamless journey with Downsend.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a welcoming, professional first point of contact for all admissions enquiries.

• Support prospective families through each stage of the admissions process with exceptional care and attention.

• Coordinate school tours, open events, taster days, and assessments.

• Ensure accurate and timely entry of data into admissions systems (such as iSAMS).

• Collaborate with the wider admissions, academic, and marketing teams to support recruitment goals.

• Provide administrative support to the Admissions Manager and wider team.

About You – What We’re Looking For

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Strong interpersonal skills with a customer-first mindset.

• Ability to handle confidential information with empathy and discretion.

• Experience in a customer service, sales support, or administrative environment.

• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to prioritise tasks in a busy setting.

• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office and cloud-based platforms.

• Comfortable working with data and digital systems (experience with iSAMS is a bonus).

• A-levels or equivalent qualification as a minimum.

Desirable:

• Previous experience working in a school or education setting.

• Familiarity with admissions or CRM systems.

Why Join Downsend and Cognita?

• Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience

• Free lunch during term time

• On-site parking (subject to availability)

• Staff discount on school fees

• Access to exclusive third-party discounts

• Supportive environment for ongoing professional development

Application Information

Closing date: 29 June 2025
We encourage early applications as interviews may be held before the deadline for suitable candidates.

Safeguarding Commitment:
Cognita and Downsend School are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to share this commitment. Pre-employment checks and safer recruitment practices will be followed.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds.