Director of Admissions

The Opportunity

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Director of Admissions to head the busy admissions department for the two leading independent schools that comprise the Abingdon Foundation. 

Abingdon School is a thriving day and boarding school with more than 1,000 pupils aged 11-18. Currently a boys’ school, it will become co-educational from September 2026.  Abingdon Prep School is a vibrant and warm day preparatory school with around 200 pupils aged 4-13 which has been co-educational since last year. Both Schools are situated in beautiful and extensive grounds, with the senior school in the heart of Abingdon on Thames, just south of Oxford, and the Prep School located a few miles away in nearby Frilford.

The Director of Admissions will be a prominent ambassador for the Foundation, working closely with the Director of External Relations, the two school Heads and other senior leaders and will deputise for the Director of External Relations as appropriate. They will be responsible for day to day management of the admissions department and all aspects of the admissions process, driving recruitment of new pupils at all entry points to the Foundation both from within the UK and overseas.

We are looking for a candidate with significant experience in admissions, marketing or customer-facing roles, preferably within the independent school sector, and proven experience in managing teams and working collaboratively across departments

The successful candidate will combine a warm and approachable manner and a genuine commitment to excellent customer service with strong market knowledge and effective technical skills.

The School offers a range of generous benefits including up to 14.1% employer pension contribution, private healthcare insurance, free use of leisure facilities with discounted exercise classes, additional Christmas closure days and discounted school fees (eligibility criteria apply).

We recognise the value of a diverse and inclusive workplace and are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and job applicants.  We aim to ensure that our staffing at all levels and in all roles is diverse and we welcome applications from all backgrounds and all sections of the community.

Closing date:    08 October 2025 (midday)

Interview date:   1st round (remote) week of 13 October 2025

2nd round (in person) week of 03 November 2025

Candidates are advised that a cover letter outlining their motivation for the role must be uploaded in order to complete the application process.  The cover letter should be addressed to Mike Windsor, Head of Abingdon Foundation.

Abingdon is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.  All appointments are subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check.