Secretary jobs in Guildford

Required for September 2026

Hoe Bridge School is seeking an experienced and highly organised Personal Assistant to provide professional support to the Head of Prep. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth running of the Head of Prep’s office, contributing to the effective leadership of the school, and supporting both day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives.

This role requires a well-qualified and energetic person who has the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment. We are seeking someone with vision, purpose, warmth and humour, who works positively with colleagues and has excellent organisational and administrative skills. Working at the centre of everything that goes on in our busy and dynamic Prep Department, you will have exceptional communication skills and will play an integral role in the successful day-to-day running of our busy school. Attention to detail and excellence in client service are essential to the role. Good personal presentation, a friendly disposition and a willingness to participate in school life are considered important qualities for this position.

Candidates must possess the ability to prioritise workloads effectively, maintain confidentiality, remain calm under pressure, and use tact and discretion when dealing with people. The willingness to learn, work collaboratively as part of a team, and support the wider life of the school is essential. You will be trustworthy, discreet, organised, and deadline-focused, taking a proactive, solutions-oriented approach. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt to changing priorities are also required. This is a full-time post and reports to the Head of Prep as line manager.

Desirable qualities include:

• Proven experience as a Personal Assistant, Executive Assistant, or in a similar administrative role, providing support to senior leaders.
• Experience of managing complex diaries and schedules, with the ability to prioritise competing demands, work proactively and meet deadlines.
• Experience of handling confidential and sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
• Experience of organising meetings, including preparing agendas, taking minutes and following up on actions.
• Experience of drafting, proofreading and preparing correspondence, reports, briefing papers and presentations.
• Experience of liaising effectively with senior staff, parents, governors and external partners, maintaining a professional front-of-house presence.
• Experience of coordinating events, functions, recruitment processes (including arranging interviews) and school-related activities.
• Experience of managing administrative systems, databases and record-keeping, with proficiency in Microsoft Office.

The salary will reflect qualifications and experience.

Full details are available on the Hoe Bridge School website: https://www.hoebridgeschool.co.uk/about/staff-vacancies

Closing date for applications: 9am, Friday 18 September 2026

Hoe Bridge School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Any person offered a position will be required to complete an enhanced DBS disclosure.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Work Location: In person