Office Manager – Solihull Academy
About Us
Very excitingly, from September 2026, WMG Academy Trust will welcome its first cohort of Year 9 students. This marks a significant milestone in our journey and enables us to further shape and strengthen our UTC curriculum, reinforcing our business-like, business-led ethos from an even earlier stage.
WMG Academy is a thriving and welcoming establishment for aspiring young Engineers. With a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), we offer a distinctive curriculum that includes GCSEs (including core subjects), A Levels, vocational and technical qualifications, or a combined approach.
Due to this expansion, a number of exciting opportunities have arisen across the Trust, including this role. This is a unique time to join WMG Academy and play a part in shaping the future of Engineering, STEM and Digital education.
Our career-focused approach to education is designed to engage students, helping them identify their strengths, reach their full potential, and confidently take their first steps into the world of work. From our business dress, structured working day as well as meaningful opportunities to collaborate with industry partners on real-life projects, our students experience an environment that mirrors the expectations of modern engineering and technology workplaces. As a result, parents see confidence grow and employment prospects soar.
We’re Looking For A Very Special Office Manager /PA to the Head (Assoc Principal)
JOB PURPOSE
To lead the administration function of the WMG Academy to ensure effective and efficient use of team members to facilitate the operational needs of staff, students, parents, stakeholders and visitors. To distribute work within a small administrative team, in line with needs, and line manage the Admin Team.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Admin Office
The exact duties and responsibilities will be varied at any given time and will include:-
● Proficient use and maintenance of IT systems for a variety of tasks including Bromcom, Every HR and other platforms
● Responsible for managing the WMG Academy administration services including reception and reprographics plus a team of upto 3.
● Promote a business-like office environment and good relationships with staff, students, business partners, the Trust, parents and other key stakeholders
● To lead by example, line manage, organise, prioritise office work flow and outcomes
● Provide a service where systems and processes are challenged, efficiencies are implemented and first class guidance and advice is given to stakeholders with queries
● Produce a variety of material, some of a confidential nature, correspondence, references, reports and tables, letters etc ad hoc and within ongoing processes set
● Ensure deadlines and priorities are met
● To understand the need for discretion and confidentiality at all times and adhere to the rigorous Safeguarding protocols of the Academy Trust
● Able to handle sensitive data and maintain professional confidentiality and conduct at all times
● Assist in the preparation of the annual calendar, bulletins and other materials
● Assist with pastoral and regulatory compliance work including input to exclusions and behaviour reports
● Manage incoming queries and prioritise/delegate less pressing and complex issues as appropriate
● Maintain pupil and staff records to ensure up to date information is held by the academy and that sensitive information is secure and confidential, in line with Data Protection requirements
● Be trained up as a first aider
● Ensure records and systems are kept up-to-date in line with GDPR requirements and measures are used to safeguard personal information relating to students and staff in accordance with statutory and other requirements
● Ensure all telephone and personal enquiries are dealt with efficiently, sensitively and effectively in a timely way which promotes a positive image of the academy
● Oversee and cover the reception desk effectively to ensure high levels of support and great service to all
● Make maximum use of the academy’s information and communications technology including the network for diary management, the effective administration of databases and overseeing all written communications
● Attendance at staff briefings, INSET, Open Days, Exam Days and any other key events as directed, to provide support and organise requirements for the smooth running of events
● Provide support in any way to the Trust including IT, Marketing, Exams, HR and the CEO Office, to ensure the smooth running of administration processes and facilitate changes.
Recruitment and Human Resources Administration
● To maintain the academy’s Single Central Record in an Ofsted-ready format at all times
● To oversee and ensure the maintenance staff records, staff absences and liaise with the Trust HR Manager or Associate Principal, and Finance to ensure that Absence Management and People policies are adhered to
● Ensure all payroll processing for new joiners, leave, sickness, any changes to terms or leavers is correct
● Record staff absences and provide reporting and administration of procedures as required
● Process HR forms such as Leave Of Absence Forms, Cover requests, maintaining policy line and tracking leave as necessary using various systems
● Ensure all new staff receive the Staff Handbook, key policies and safeguarding information.
● Induct and train new administrative staff in addition to welcoming new staff from all areas to ensure that they are well informed and are signposted to resources/training.
● Advertise, Shortlist and administer Interview processes through to written offers/contracts, using assigned templates
● Carry out all the required checks in accordance with KCSIE regulations and maintain the current processes/systems in place for consistency across the Trust
● Support and administer the WMG Wellbeing initiatives.
● Ensure Induction templates / Probation templates are organised for new joiners and Line Managers assigned responsibility. Follow up as required for filing.
● /To maintain staff records and to ensure that staff records held in the academy data systems are kept confidential
● Assist in preparation of the School Workforce Census
● Assist in the administration of the Salary Reviews (across c 60 staff).
● Assist with any administration of other HR actions and initiatives including small projects
You Will Have:
- Previous experience as a PA/Office Manager or in HR or Recruitment at an Advisor level, preferably in Education or a recruitment agency.
- Excellent Administration Experience at a high level.
- Professional conduct and able to maintain confidentiality
- Superb eye for detail and accuracy
- First class communication skills orally and in writing.
- English and Maths GCSE passes at grade 5 or above ideally
(Full specification available on request)
What We Offer Staff
● Development: Ongoing accredited training and sponsorship for extended skills qualifications.
● Work-Life Balance: Generous PPA time and flexible/hybrid working where possible.
● Wellbeing: Comprehensive program including physiotherapy, counselling, subsidised rates on Private Medical Health insurance, staff treats and VivUp scheme perks.
● Rewards: £250 Staff Recruitment Referral scheme and a competitive pension.
Key Dates
Closing Date & Time: 15th June 2026
Interview Date(s): TBC wc 22nd or 29th June
Proposed Start Date: asap or 1st September 2026.
Application Process
To apply for this vacancy please use the 'Apply for job' link.
An application form will be required. You should ensure your application form and supporting statement address all elements of the person specification. We will only consider candidates who meet the vast majority of the essential criteria outlined in the person specification.
Our Commitment
WMG Academy is committed to safeguarding, safer recruitment and promoting the welfare of pupils. Our comprehensive recruitment and selection processes aim to discourage and screen out unsuitable applicants. Successful candidates are subject to rigorous pre-employment checks. You will be required to provide evidence of identity, right to work in the UK, complete an enhanced DBS clearance and provide proof of professional qualifications. Online searches will be carried out as part of the recruitment process. This position is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act
We are equally committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity. We aim for our workforce to be representative of society and that each employee feels respected. We oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination.
WMG Academy For Young Engineers Trust
WMGmg Academy Solihull
Chelmsley Road, Solihull,
Birmingham, B37 5FD
Tel: 0121 289 3556
Email: [email protected]
Website: solihull.wmgacademy.org.uk
Pay: £34,000.00-£38,220.00 per year
Application question(s):
- HR or Recruitment experience at Admin or Advisor level is a must!
Experience:
- Administrative: 4 years (required)
Work Location: In person
