Admissions ManagerData & Strategy
Lead the admissions journey at a vibrant independent secondary school in the heart of London — shaping strategy, insight and the family experience from first enquiry to enrolment.
A modern school with a lasting sense of place.
Maida Vale School is a vibrant and ambitious independent secondary school located in the heart of London. Founded on the belief that education should inspire curiosity, creativity, and academic excellence, we offer a modern and forward-thinking approach to learning.
As a growing and successful school, we pride ourselves on our warm, inclusive community and the exceptional care and support we provide our pupils — encouraging confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
We are seeking an experienced and analytical Admissions Manager (Data and Strategy) to lead and develop the school's admissions function. This is a key role, responsible for managing the admissions process, analysing admissions data, identifying trends, and supporting strategic planning.
The successful candidate will oversee the admissions journey from initial enquiry through to enrolment, ensuring an exceptional experience for prospective families while using data and market intelligence to inform decision-making.
Working closely with the Head, Senior Leadership Team, and Marketing colleagues, you will play a central role in developing admissions strategies, monitoring conversion rates, forecasting pupil numbers, and producing insightful reports to support the school's strategic objectives.
What you'll be doing, day to day.
- 01Work closely with the Headteacher and Directors on developing the school's strategic plan for admissions and be responsible for its delivery and success.
- 02Act as the first point of contact for all admissions enquiries, providing guidance on the admissions process and the likelihood of available places.
- 03Ensure clear, timely, and effective communication at each stage of the admissions process.
- 04Communicate outcomes of applications to families with clarity and professionalism, including offers and declined places, ensuring all correspondence reflects the values of the school.
- 05Be responsible for the organisation and invigilation of all admissions tests and ISEB examinations.
- 06Maintain ongoing communication with prospective parents by managing and recording all enquiries, expressions of interest, and updates to waiting lists.
- 07Ensure relevant information is promptly recorded for accurate data entry and record keeping on iSAMS (the school's MIS).
- 08Manage the admissions data entry process in totality from initial contact to pupil entry, with all associated administration on iSAMS.
- 09Plan and manage all operational aspects of recruitment events, including project planning, logistics, stakeholder coordination, resource allocation, and post-event evaluation.
- 10Use iSAMS, Power BI, Excel and other relevant software to provide timely, accurate and cogent admissions data to the Headteacher, Directors, and leadership team.
- 11Maintain all admissions data and update all pupil status changes up to the point of entry.
- 12Manage the admissions cycle with professionalism, sensitivity, and efficiency.
- 13Prepare regular formal reports on admissions status to the Headteacher and the Board.
- 14Ensure that information on admissions, registration fees, deposits, and leaver notices is communicated in a timely manner to the Finance Office.
- 15Be responsible for the school's admissions and scholarship policies and their publication on the school's website.
- 16Collaborate with the Senior Deputy Head to plan and deliver key internal admissions and engagement events such as Open Mornings, Taster Days, Parents' Information Evenings and Pupil Induction events.
- 17Attend all admissions related evening social functions, assisting the Headteacher in hosting guests and visitors.
- 18Input and maintain accurate pupil records on iSAMS in compliance with current regulations and Data Protection requirements.
- 19Request new pupil files from previous schools, references and reports.
- 20Forward all required pupil information, including safeguarding files, to all future schools of current pupils.
- 21Work closely with the Senior Deputy Head to ensure all transfers of safeguarding information.
- 22Share relevant information regarding students with their local education authority.
- 23Attend and assist at any additional school functions as required by the Head.
- 24Support a range of whole school events beyond those related to admissions, contributing to the wider life of the school.
- 25Act as secretary for the Parents' Advisory Committee, convening meetings, taking minutes and distributing them.
- Assist with key school events within the academic year as required.
- Collaborate with the Office Manager and work flexibly to support colleagues in the office team.
- Work within school policies and procedures.
- Contribute to positive relationships with staff, students, parents and outside agencies.
- Attend training and participate in professional development as required.
- Take care of your own and other people's health and safety.
- Be aware of and respect the confidential nature of admissions issues.
Who we're looking for.
Candidates should demonstrate how they meet these selection criteria in their application form, supporting statement, and interview.
Qualifications
- Educated to A-Level standard or equivalent.
- Degree or professional qualification in Business, Marketing, Data Management, Education Administration, or a related field.
Experience
- Significant experience in admissions, pupil recruitment, school administration, customer service, or a related role.
- Experience of managing complex administrative processes with a high degree of accuracy.
- Experience of handling confidential and sensitive information appropriately.
- Experience of producing reports and analysing data to support decision-making.
- Experience within the independent school sector.
- Experience of strategic admissions planning and forecasting.
- Experience of organising school events, open days, or stakeholder engagement activities.
- Experience of acting as a clerk or secretary to committees, including minute taking.
- Experience of planning and managing pupil recruitment events.
Knowledge
- Understanding of admissions processes and the importance of providing an excellent customer experience.
- Understanding of data protection and confidentiality requirements.
- Strong understanding of data management and record-keeping practices.
- Understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and the handling of pupil records.
- Knowledge of the independent school admissions market.
- Knowledge of school management information systems, particularly iSAMS.
- Knowledge of ISEB assessments and admissions testing processes.
- Knowledge of Power BI or other business intelligence tools.
Skills & Abilities
- Excellent organisational and administrative skills with strong attention to detail.
- Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet competing deadlines.
- Ability to build effective relationships with parents, pupils, colleagues, and external stakeholders.
- Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
- Ability to analyse, interpret, and present data in a clear and meaningful way.
- Ability to work independently, use initiative, and identify opportunities for improvement.
- Ability to maintain accurate records and manage databases effectively.
- Advanced data analysis and reporting skills.
- Experience of creating strategic reports and presentations for senior leadership.
Personal Qualities
- Professional, approachable, and welcoming manner.
- High levels of integrity, discretion, and confidentiality.
- Strong customer service ethos and commitment to providing an exceptional experience for prospective families.
- Flexible and willing to support the wider life of the school, including evening and occasional weekend events.
- Resilient, adaptable, and able to remain calm under pressure.
- Strong analytical mindset with a strategic approach to problem-solving.
- Commitment to the values, ethos, and aims of the school.
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
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We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils. All applicants will be subject to online checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS. Early applications are encouraged, as we reserve the right to interview and appoint suitable candidates before the closing date.
Ready to join us?
Download the application form and equal opportunities monitoring form below. Completed forms should be returned by email to recruitment@maidavaleschool.com.
The equal opportunities form is optional and kept separately from your application.