EXPLORE NON-TEACHING ROLES IN SCHOOLS

Teachers stand at the front of classrooms, carrying out the role most associated with working in a school. But never forget, they are supported by a whole team doing a wide variety of jobs. From being the first point of contact to advising students on careers or unlocking the gates in the morning, these non-teaching positions are key to keeping the school running.

Working in a school appeals to many parents and caregivers as it allows them to work around school hours and be off during school holidays, which aligns with childcare needs.

If you don’t want to become a teacher but you like the idea of working in a school setting, you might find a perfect fit outside the classroom. Let’s examine some of the roles in schools and the skills required to perform them.

School receptionist

A meeter and greeter, the school receptionist can be under pressure at key times during the day. You’ll need to be good at keeping your cool and have great people skills. Receptionists must be discreet and professional. Additionally, as the first person most people see upon arrival, the ability to smile and be welcoming at all times is crucial. 

Typical duties each day could include:

1. Signing in parents, visitors and students
2. Monitoring student absences or late arrivals
3. Answering phone calls
4. Handling queries and passing on messages
5. Using computer systems

Key skills: Great communication, computer literacy, and the ability to multitask

Careers advisor or leader

As pupils progress through their education, they face big decisions at key points. Careers advisors or career leaders guide them through choosing GCSEs, post-16 and post-18 options, apprenticeships, university applications, and the world of work. To excel in this important role, you’ll need empathy and to stay attuned to the world of work and qualification routes to offer the best advice. It’s likely that you will build links with employers and industries to keep your finger on the pulse. Your knowledge and approach will inspire the next generation.

The role encompasses:

1. Sharing information and resources about education and training options
2. Providing guidance on CVs and applications for jobs, apprenticeships and university
3. Sharing your knowledge of the local and broader jobs market
4. Orchestrating work placement opportunities for students

Key skills: Listening skills, professional gravitas, strong communication and the ability to be impartial.

Careers advisors must aim for a professional qualification, such as the level 4 diploma in career information and advice. You could progress to the level 6 career development professional apprenticeship standardavailable.

Teaching assistant (TA)

Teachers and schools rely heavily on teaching assistants. They perform vital duties in many different scenarios: from early years, specific subjects, or SEND (special educational needs) support. Some TAs progress to become Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTAs) or even train as teachers.

TA responsibilities can include:

1. Working with small groups or developing one-to-one relationships with pupils who have special educational needs
2. Assisting in a particular department, such as art or science, to set up equipment and help in practical lessons
3. Being an extra pair of hands to manage classroom behaviour, or support with supervision at lunchtime or on school trips
4. Providing general support to teachers in the classroom, delivering the curriculum

Good to know: Read about the specific qualifications which can prepare you for a role as a TA; you’ll also need strong interpersonal and teamworking skills. You can choose the apprenticeship route with a level 3 teaching assistant apprenticeship standard, progressing up to a level 5 specialist teaching assistant apprenticeship standard.

Dinner person

With a background in hospitality or catering, or even without one, this is another job that can fit around school hours. It’s a busy role with intense periods during actual meal times – hundreds and sometimes thousands of students can pass through the canteen doors. Many jobs are about 20 hours per week, working for a sub-contractor, the school itself, or the local council.

Key responsibilities are likely to include:

1. Setting up and clearing the food service and dining area during service, and cleaning down at the end
2. Helping with stock taking, ordering and receiving deliveries
3. Serving meals and being mindful of students with dietary needs
4. Following hygiene guidelines and legislation
5. Handling cash or helping with other payment systems

You’ll need to be: Physically fit and able, kind but also assertive with students when required, proficient in basic literacy and numeracy.

Caretaker

The caretaker, sometimes called the site manager, is the unsung hero of the school site. The job often involves working as part of a small team, perhaps alongside cleaners and gardeners. The size of the school determines what a typical day looks like. 

Duties include:

1. Opening the gates – and other entrances – plus locking up at the end of the school day
2. Overseeing heating, lighting, general maintenance and troubleshooting to keep the school running
3. Managing contractors and ensuring health and safety standards are met
4. Working alongside a grounds team or being directly responsible for keeping the grounds and facilities presentable and safe

Good to have: A background in maintenance, understanding of health and safety, a track record of reliability

Other Important Roles

Volunteer governors: They oversee school strategy, shape financial plans, and hold school leaders accountable for their decisions. This is a great way to contribute to your community and gain governance experience.

Exam invigilators: A perfect role for those seeking seasonal work, with flexible hours. Invigilators supervise during exams, ensuring rules and regulations are adhered to.

Pupil support & welfare staff: Schools tap into the skills of counsellors, and often employ pastoral workers and attendance officers. These roles focus on the wellbeing of students and ensure students feel supported.

Pointers

• For jobs in a school, you will require an enhanced check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
• Many schools list jobs on their own website. You can also find positions on local council jobs boards, whilst multi-school academy trusts may recruit centrally.
• Working in a school can be a stepping stone to a job with more responsibility. Many schools encourage the training and development of their staff.