Administrative Assistant
Department: Foundation Learning
Salary: £21,655 per annum (£25,775 full year equivalent)
Contract Type: Permanent - Term Time 37 hours per week
Reference: REC2370 | Closing date: Sunday, 17th May 2026
Term Time Contracts
This contract offers full-time hours across 37 weeks of the year, primarily during term time. You will be required to work during the academic terms, with some additional duties outside of term time as needed. This structure provides a balance between a full-time role and flexibility during non-term periods.
The Opportunity
We are looking for a friendly, efficient and highly organised Administrative Assistant to join our successful and supportive Foundation Learning team.
This role is more than traditional administration. You will be the first point of contact for learners, prospective learners, parents, visitors and external partners, helping to create a welcoming, professional and safe environment where young people feel valued and ready to learn.
Based at the heart of the Foundation Learning department, you will provide essential clerical and administrative support to ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the provision. Your responsibilities will include maintaining accurate data and filing systems, supporting departmental processes, distributing post, managing enquiries, taking meeting minutes and helping maintain an effective and responsive office environment.
Daily interaction with learners is central to this role. You will support students with practical tasks such as attendance tracking, timetable queries, issuing ID badges and providing general guidance often being the first supportive face they see each day.
This is an exciting role for someone who enjoys working in a busy, meaningful environment where organisational skills and people skills are equally valued.
About You
You will be warm, approachable and confident in engaging with young people, including those who may have had challenging experiences in education.
You will be able to manage competing priorities, communicate effectively, maintain confidentiality, and contribute to a positive and inclusive team culture. Emotional resilience, a calm manner and strong IT skills are essential, as is a genuine commitment to supporting young people to succeed.
Below is a list of some of the key skills, qualifications and experience we are seeking for this exciting opportunity.
Required
• NVQ Level 2 in Business Admin or willingness to work towards
• GCSE Maths and English (or equivalent Level 2 qualification)
• Experience of working in an educational setting or with young people
Reasons to join us
• We offer substantial annual leave entitlement (Up to 47 days per year including bank and public holidays)
• Holiday purchase scheme to buy additional annual leave days
• Local Government Pension Scheme – with a generous 19.2% employer contribution!
• We invest in our people through funded CPD opportunities, regular staff development training and paid volunteering days
• Career advancement opportunities with tailored support for staff to progress
• Free Barnsley College courses to support your professional and personal development (subject to approval)
• 24/7 access to same day appointments with a GP
• Exclusive discounts and cashback for retail, dining and leisure as part of YouatWork
• Access to health cash plans as members of the Westfield Health Scheme or Health Shield
• Discounted college gym membership with onsite facilities
• Supporting employee mental health through access to free counselling services and the Foundations App
• Discounts schemes for greener travel including Northern Rail, Trainline and Cycle to Work
• Free Microsoft Office 365 for personal use on up to five machines
• Access to discounted hair and beauty therapies at our onsite salon
• On site subsidised Starbucks and food outlets offering a variety of dining options
• Free breakfast provided daily for all staff members
• Our shared purpose - We believe in transforming the lives of both our learners and staff
The Barnsley College Advantage
When you join us, you can expect to benefit from “The Barnsley College Advantage”. This is the advantage of:
• Being supported to achieve your personal and professional goals
• A range of flexible working opportunities
• Autonomy, Empowerment and Accountability
• Short- and Long-Term development commitments
• Access to experiencing work in a range of areas
• Working in a Value and Behaviour led organisation
• Reward and Recognition
• Having your voice heard at every level
• Comprehensive Wellbeing Support
Closing date for applications is Sunday, 17th May 2026. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early depending on the level of interest.
Barnsley College is committed to creating a dynamic and diverse workforce and welcomes applications from all candidates regardless of their gender, disability, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or faith. Disabled applicants who meet the minimum essential criteria will be guaranteed an interview. The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure from DBS.
Please be aware that it is a Criminal offence to apply for this post if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity in connection to children.