Business Administrator Apprenticeship

Business Administrator Apprenticeship at Chowbent Primary School

Are you an organised, friendly, and motivated individual looking to kickstart your career in school administration?
We have an exciting opportunity for a Business Administration Apprentice to join our busy and supportive school office team in January 2026 

This is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a professional school environment while working towards a nationally recognised qualification. You'll receive full training and support with a clear development pathway — with the view to progressing into a School Business Manager role in the future.

As a key member of the school's administrative team, you will play an important role in supporting the smooth day-to-day running of the school office.

Apprenticeship Overview:

• Salary: £7.55 an hour, Automatic pay increase after one year on programme for 19+ year olds
• Working Week: Monday to Friday 8:30 am till 3:30 pm with a 1 hour lunch break 
• Hours: 30 hours per week
• Duration: 16 months
• Level 3 Business Administrator Apprenticeship standard qualification
• Online training supported by our dedicated tutors 
• Location: Laburnum Street, Atherton, Manchester, England, M46 9FP

Your duties will include:

• Acting as the first point of contact for parents, pupils, staff, and visitors – providing a warm, professional welcome.
• Answering phone calls and managing school emails efficiently.
• Supporting with general administrative tasks such as photocopying, filing, word processing, and data entry.
• Using the school's MIS and FMS systems (Arbor) to update records, process staff absences, and manage financial transactions.
• Raising purchase orders, processing petty cash, and assisting with BACs and cheque payments.
• Assisting with training arrangements, obtaining quotes, and maintaining accurate records in line with GDPR.
• Helping to organise school trips, training events, and activities.
• Supporting welfare duties such as basic first aid and liaising with parents regarding student wellbeing.
• Contributing to the overall efficiency and success of the school through teamwork and professionalism.

Responsibilities:

• Provide clerical and administrative support to the Headteacher, School Business Manager, and wider school team.
• Ensure visitors are welcomed and signed in according to safeguarding procedures.
• Sort and distribute incoming and outgoing mail.
• Prepare reports, spreadsheets, and statistical data as required.
• Manage income and expenditure for school accounts and funds.
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information responsibly.
• Participate in training, development, and appraisal opportunities.
• Support and uphold the school's values, policies, and ethos at all times.

Desired Skills & Qualities: 

• Confident using a range of computer software (Word, Excel, email, internet, etc.)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work accurately and meet deadlines
• Strong organisational and time management abilities
• Friendly, professional, and approachable manner
• Able to work independently and as part of a team
• Willingness to obtain a First Aid qualification
• Genuine interest in working in a school environment

Qualifications Required: 

• GCSE (or equivalent) Grade 4/C or above in English and Maths

What training will the apprentice take and what qualification will the apprentice get at the end?

The successful candidate will obtain a Level 3 Business Administrator Apprenticeship standard qualification.

Each apprentice will have their own dedicated tutor who will conduct monthly remote tutorials and reviews, providing continuous support throughout the apprenticeship program. Depending on the apprentice's needs, the frequency of these sessions may vary. 

What is the expected career progression after this apprenticeship? 

Potential full-time employment for the right candidate upon successful completion of the apprenticeship. 

Pre-employment checks. Please be aware that upon a successful offer of employment, the company completes digitalised right-to-work checks and DBS applications via an external provider - 'Matrix Screening'. The company also completes an internal online social media search, in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. 

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