Business Administrator Level 3 -Natural Ability

Apprenticeship Description

About Natural Ability 

Natural Ability is a dynamic and growing Registered Charity based in Hexham, dedicated to transforming the lives of adults with learning disabilities. We deliver a diverse and innovative range of services, including Supported Living, an Enabling Service, and a vibrant Day Service. Our day provision includes centre-based support at The Orchard, Day Farming, a Handy Person Service, and a therapeutic walking group — all designed to promote independence, purpose, and belonging. 

Founded in 2009 by two friends — one a mother determined to create better opportunities for her son with learning disabilities — Natural Ability was born out of a clear gap in meaningful post-education support. What began as a personal mission has grown into a respected, community-embedded charity supporting a growing number of adults across Hexham and the wider Northumberland area. 

Job Purpose: 

As an Apprentice Business Support Assistant, you will provide administrative assistance across a wide range of functions. Throughout your apprenticeship you will develop practical skills and gain hands-on experience in areas such as finance, human resources, communications and marketing, facilities, compliance, risk management, IT systems, impact and performance, and asset management. 

Whilst gaining an insight into each of these functions, you will act as the first point of contact and the welcoming face and voice of Natural Ability, both in person and over the telephone. With support and training, you will develop strong communication and professional skills while representing the organisation in a positive and friendly manner. 

This apprenticeship is ideal for someone eager to learn, develop transferable skills, and grow into a well-rounded business support professional. 

Main Duties and Responsibilities: 

1. General 

1. Managing a range of email and phone enquiries, using your own initiative to take action and escalating matters to Managers as required. 

1. Organising staff meeting and events including booking any required facilities/equipment. 

1. Preparing meeting agendas and producing and circulating minutes within agreed timescales. 

1. Assisting with the preparation of reports and other documentation for project and board meetings. 

1. Maintaining accurate records of information, archiving and document retention in line with our GDPR policy. 

1. Providing ad hoc administrative support to Managers as needed. 

1. Finance and HR 

1. Supporting Director of Business Services with the administration of purchase ledger, sales ledger, petty cash and staff expenses. 

1. Providing support to carry out DBS checks and renewals for employees. 

1. Developing skills to assist and carry out payroll when required.  

1. Ensuring employee records are accurate and kept up to date. 

1. Assisting HR Advisor with recruitment including contacting candidates, arranging interviews and checking right to work documents.  

1. Facilities administration 

1. Managing the booking and use of facilities within our buildings. 

1. Sourcing and ordering office and service equipment e.g. stationery, furniture, laptops, printers and mobile phones.  

1. Supporting the administration of equipment contracts and maintaining an asset log. 

1. Organising equipment maintenance in line with legislation. 

1. Supporting with any other facilities management as necessary.  

1. IT administration  

1. Support in ensuring new employees are set up on any IT equipment they require; laptops and mobile phones etc. 

1. Providing first line IT support for staff with any IT problems/enquires.  

1. Updating and maintaining the Natural Ability website by adding, editing and removing information as required. Working with managers to improve search engine optimisation through the development of internal and external links and improving site structure. 

1. Marketing  

1. Supporting with communications internally and externally by creating and publishing social media content, designing posters and any promotional material using Canva and other graphics design sites. 

1. Supporting with organising and attending events hosted onsite or externally to promote our services. 

Benefits of working with Natural Ability: 

• Birthday Leave 

• Competitive pay rates 

• Blue light discount - For reductions from a range of high street and online retailers. 

• Mileage allowance 

• Eyecare vouchers 

• Fully paid induction 

• Support with personal development and access to further training and qualifications. 

• Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme  

• Rewards for consistent attendance 

• Employee Assistance Programme 

• 24 hours’ management and on call support 

• Casual clothes policy 

• Small and friendly team of colleagues 

• Modern and spacious office environment 

• Holiday selling and Buy back scheme  

Must have Maths and English GCSE grade 4 or above