Durham International School invites applications from qualified, dedicated, and highly organized individuals to fill the position of Office Administrator. This role presents an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional to contribute to a dynamic, multicultural educational environment committed to nurturing academic excellence and holistic student development.
The Office Administrator will play a crucial role in supporting the school’s operations, coordinating co-curricular activities, maintaining student records, and ensuring the smooth execution of day-to-day administrative functions. The successful candidate will be part of a collaborative team that upholds Durham’s mission and values, fostering a safe, inclusive, and stimulating environment for students, staff, and the broader school community.
Office Administrator
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Application Deadline: 14th November 2025
Application Method: Via email to [email protected]
Job Description
The Office Administrator will be responsible for delivering high-quality administrative support across various functions of the school. The role requires excellent organizational and communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask effectively within a fast-paced environment.
The position entails supporting the school’s leadership, managing internal communications, liaising with parents and service providers, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring the effective coordination of school activities and resources.
General Responsibilities
Safeguarding and Promoting the Wellbeing of Students and the Durham Community
The Office Administrator will be a key contributor to maintaining the high standards of care, professionalism, and integrity that Durham International School upholds. The postholder will be expected to:
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date student records, including emergency contact details and medical information.
- Coordinate the School’s Co-curricular Activities (CCA) programme, ensuring seamless communication and scheduling.
- Liaise with various co-curricular providers such as swimming, ballet, chess, and sports instructors to keep them informed of term dates, schedule changes, and other relevant updates.
- Coordinate half-termly stationery orders and oversee annual resource procurement from overseas suppliers.
- Maintain sufficient medical stock levels for the Health Centre to support students’ health needs.
- Arrange school visits and tours for prospective parents in collaboration with the Admissions Manager.
- Assist with organizing Open Days, including managing correspondence, logistics, and catering arrangements.
- Complete and submit forms required by parents for governmental or institutional purposes, such as the Pupil Pass.
- Liaise with the catering department to coordinate school events and functions.
- Work closely with the Facilities Department to organize and maintain accurate bus schedules.
- Coordinate risk assessments for class visits, school trips, and external activities to ensure safety compliance.
In performing these duties, the Office Administrator will incorporate the school’s mission, aims, and core values into their daily work, serving as a positive role model for staff and students.
The incumbent must always place the safety and welfare of students as the foremost priority, treating all members of the school community with consideration and respect. They will actively promote a positive and productive school culture, one that values excellence, respect, and collaboration.
The role also requires maintaining high standards of health, hygiene, and behaviour within the school environment. The Office Administrator will be instrumental in promoting pride among the pupil body, ensuring students adhere to standards of dress, manners, and respect for others and property.
Additionally, the postholder must remain vigilant and report any concerns regarding the safety or wellbeing of students, maintaining high standards of conduct and responsibility both on school premises and during off-site activities.
Other Responsibilities
The Office Administrator will also contribute to the wider life of the school community by:
- Participating in and contributing to administrative and office meetings to ensure cohesive communication and workflow.
- Actively supporting and engaging in school activities such as Open Events, trips, plays, concerts, sports days, and fundraising events.
- Being fully familiar with the Staff Handbook, including the school’s aims, policies, and operational guidance.
- Following health and safety protocols to ensure the wellbeing of all members of the school community.
- Working reasonable additional hours when necessary to ensure timely and effective discharge of administrative duties.
Person Specification
The ideal candidate for the Office Administrator role will demonstrate a blend of professional experience, interpersonal competence, and a commitment to excellence. The position requires a dependable individual who can handle sensitive information with discretion while maintaining a professional demeanor in all interactions.
Knowledge and Experience
- Experience in a multicultural, high-performance educational environment.
- Competence in using management information systems, preferably iSams.
- Strong understanding of data protection and confidentiality in an educational setting.
Personal Qualities
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Professional in appearance, conduct, and approach to work.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to interact confidently with parents, students, and senior management.
- Exceptional organizational and time management abilities, with meticulous attention to detail.
- A collaborative and proactive team player who contributes positively to a supportive and dynamic school culture.
- High level of confidentiality, reliability, and integrity.
- Energetic, enthusiastic, and possessing a positive outlook and sense of humour.
- Warm, caring, and approachable demeanor that supports constructive relationships within the school community.
- Flexible and efficient in managing multiple tasks and meeting deadlines.
- Capable of representing the school effectively in dealings with prospective parents and the general public.
Confidentiality
Durham International School places the utmost importance on confidentiality and professionalism in all its operations. The successful candidate will be expected to uphold the confidentiality of student, staff, and institutional information at all times, both within and outside the workplace.
References will only be requested at the short-list stage, and candidates will be notified before referees are contacted.
Safeguarding and Child Protection
Durham International School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The institution expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
All shortlisted candidates will undergo thorough screening processes to verify their suitability to work with children. Applicants will also be required to provide a valid Certificate of Police Clearance as part of the recruitment procedure.
This position demands a deep understanding of child safeguarding principles and adherence to the school’s safeguarding policies and practices. The Office Administrator must be alert to any behaviour or sign that might indicate a student is at risk of harm and take appropriate action following established procedures.
Application Process
Interested applicants are invited to submit their applications by email to [email protected] no later than 14th November 2025.
Applications must include the following:
- A letter of application addressed to The Headteacher, not exceeding one page (A4), outlining your motivation for applying and the skills and experiences that make you a suitable candidate for this role.
- A fully completed Durham International School Non-Teaching Application Form.
- The names, postal and email addresses, and telephone numbers of three referees, one of whom must be your current employer. Referee details should be provided in full within the application form.
Please note that incomplete applications or those missing the required documentation will not be considered. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the school reserves the right to make an appointment before the stated closing date should a suitable candidate be identified.
About Durham International School
Durham International School is a leading educational institution committed to academic excellence and character development. The school provides an inclusive, nurturing environment that values diversity, innovation, and lifelong learning. Through a blend of academic rigor and co-curricular engagement, the institution strives to prepare students to become well-rounded, responsible global citizens.
The Office Administrator plays an essential role in upholding these values by ensuring efficient administrative support that enables the school to deliver exceptional educational experiences.
For those seeking an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a respected international school environment, this position offers a rewarding chance to work within a community that values integrity, professionalism, and dedication to student welfare.
Applications to be sent via email to [email protected] by 14th November 2025.
