Network Manager

* Network Manager

Location:

Taunton, Somerset
*
* Job Title:

** Network Manager
** Actual Annual Salary:** £35,852 - £39,649 (CLF Grade

E) Based on hours and working weeks
** Contract Type:
** Permanent
*
* Hours:

** Full-time, 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday / All year-round
** Additional role info:
** The primary location for this role is Kingsmead Academy, Taunton, with travel to other academies when needed.
** Provisional

Start Date:

** As soon as possible
** Your opportunity to lead, evolve, and empower digital learning at Kingsmead Academy
** We are seeking a highly skilled, proactive, and relationship‑driven Network Manager to join Kingsmead Academy, part of the Cabot Learning Federation. To be successful in this role, you will take lead responsibility for the development and maintenance of the academy’s network, ensuring it is secure, reliable, and fit for purpose. You will support all users across the academy, proactively managing the development, implementation, availability, and security of an effective ICT infrastructure and the processes that underpin  this pivotal position, you will take ownership of Kingsmead’s network systems, lead the on‑site ICT support function, and ensure the academy’s technology environment is resilient, high‑performing, and enabling high‑quality teaching and learning for our community.

You will also play a vital role in reactive technical and diagnostic support, ensuring issues are resolved swiftly and effectively.

From maintaining core network services and managing complex technical environments to coaching colleagues and driving forward improvement projects, your work will be central to ensuring Kingsmead Academy’s digital ecosystem remains reliable, safe, and ready to support students and staff every day.
** About the role
*** As Network Manager for Kingsmead Academy, you will:
* Lead the development, maintenance and daily operation of the academy’s ICT infrastructure.
* Act as Kingsmead’s primary technical lead, managing escalations and providing expert guidance to staff, students and ICT Technicians.
* Work closely with the Principal, Operations Manager, SLT and the CLF central ICT team to support and shape the academy’s digital strategy.
* Build strong relationships across the academy while ensuring high‑quality, customer‑focused ICT support.
* Oversee core networking systems including switches, routers, VLANs, firewalls, DNS/DHCP, Active Directory, Office 365 and cloud services.
* Manage hardware/software repairs, upgrades, audits, procurement and stock control.
* Resolve support requests in line with Trust standards, acting as the escalation point for complex issues.
* Support academy events and assemblies with reliable AV and ICT provision.
* Contribute to Trust‑wide projects and major ICT upgrades, representing Kingsmead’s needs.
** About you
*
* You will have:

* Experience with Windows 10/11, Windows Server, Active Directory, DNS, DHCP and MDT.
* Strong networking skills including switching, VLANs, firewalls, VPNs and secure systems management.
* Knowledge of ICT security, software integrity and modern management tools.
* Confidence supporting Office 365, Azure, cloud services and education‑specific systems.
* Familiarity with service desk platforms, mobile device management and AV technologies.
* ICT support experience, ideally within education.
* Clear communication skills, able to explain technical information to non‑technical colleagues.
* A customer‑focused approach and ability to build positive working relationships.
* Strong organisational skills to manage conflicting priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
* Experience coaching or supervising others, or readiness to step into that responsibility.
* Enthusiasm for technology and supporting people.
* Integrity, resilience, adaptability and a commitment to continuous improvement.
* A calm, empathetic approach under pressure.
* Commitment to inclusion, safeguarding and Kingsmead’s values.
* Relevant IT qualifications (e.g. Level 3+, ITIL).
* GCSE English and Maths (Grade C/4+).Applicants are advised to refer to the full requirements of the role in the attached job description and person specification prior to submitting an…