Education Assistant

The Royal School of Needlework is the International Centre of Excellence for the Art of Hand Embroidery. Based at the historic Hampton Court Palace, we have been dedicated to preserving and innovating in the art of hand embroidery since 1872. Our thriving education programme offers courses for all levels, from beginners to degree level, and we teach onsite and online in locations across the UK, and internationally in America, Japan, and Australia. Our renowned Embroidery Studio creates bespoke embroidery for fashion, art, and royalty and offers expert conservation and restoration services for valuable and historical embroidered pieces.

The RSN is unique. No other single organisation covers the breadth of education and practice to promote the art and technique of hand embroidery or has our connections, collection, archive and heritage. Embroidery is an international language. Cultures and communities have used embroidery-based techniques to tell stories and record events for hundreds of years while the individual benefits of mindfulness and mental wellbeing are now increasingly being recognised today.

Overview of Role:
To provide operational and administrative support across the RSN’s educational programmes, including the Certificate and Diploma, Tutor Training Course, Short Courses, International Summer School and On Demand Courses.

Main Duties 

The main duties include, but are not limited to: 

General Administration 

• Manage the Education Email Inboxes, responding to queries and complaints as appropriate. 
• Monitor and order stock levels, ensuring supplies are available as needed. 
• Handle the packing and mailing of kits and materials, both nationally and internationally. 
• Support classroom setup for various courses, including Short Courses, Bespoke Classes, and events. 
• Assist in preparing beverages for students and visitors, maintaining cleanliness in the area. 
• Escort visitors and guests from reception, including tour groups, while representing the RSN brand confidently and enthusiastically. 
• Attend offsite events as required. 

Course-Related Administration 

• Support the Certificate and Diploma Programme Managers in the administration of the course. 
• Provide logistical support for educational tours and other departmental activities. 

Other Duties 

• Maintain a professional and efficient workflow within the Education team. 
• Provide comprehensive administrative assistance to the Director of Education and the Education Management Team, including scheduling, correspondence, and maintaining organised records to facilitate programme delivery.
• Undertake any additional activities required by your line manager within the scope of this role. 

You will not be expected to perform all the above duties, but we will expect you to be able to cover for colleagues where appropriate.

Person Specification 

Desirable 

• Interest in hand embroidery 
• Good customer service experience or potential (email/phone) 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office packages
• Ability to work on own initiative and as part of a team 
• Logical thinking and attention to detail 
• Ability to multitask and work in a busy environment 
• Energetic and enthusiastic 
• Experience with CRM databases
• Experience in office administration 
• Familiarity with postal systems and packaging of goods 
• Experience with event planning and operations 

Working Conditions 

• The role requires frequent movement between RSN’s operational areas, including collecting items or escorting individuals from reception. 
• Some lifting and use of trolleys may be required, and occasional work outside regular office hours may be necessary. 
• Flexibility is essential, particularly when lifts are unavailable or in high demand. 

 This job description is subject to periodic review and may be updated to meet the evolving needs of the RSN.