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With over a decade of experience at Trinity School, Helen Racjan shares what inspires her, what challenges her, and why she believes working in a school is one of the most rewarding ways to make a difference to Island families.
A familiar face at the heart of the school
“My name is Helen Racjan, and I’m the School Business Manager at Trinity School. I’ve worked here for over 12 years now,” Helen explains. “I originally joined as the School Administrator before stepping into the Business Manager role in 2023.”
For Helen, no two days look the same – something she’s grown to love. Her responsibilities span across the non-teaching functions of the school: supporting staff and pupils, liaising with parents, maintaining school finances, ensuring the site is safe, and working closely with the headteacher and leadership team. She also partners with the caretaker to ensure the buildings and grounds meet safety standards.
And then there’s everything else.
“It’s the nature of working in a school – anything can happen,” she laughs. “You can start the day focused on an admin task and minutes later be dealing with something completely unexpected. We learn to switch gears quickly.”
But despite the unpredictability, Helen thrives on the rhythm of school life and the people she serves every day.
“A warm smile and a positive outlook can really shape a child’s memory of school“
Supporting families, supporting staff, supporting the Island
When asked how her work helps Islanders, Helen is reflective.
“I hope my role gives colleagues confidence, knowing they have someone to support them. I also hope that the information and advice I share with parents really helps them as they navigate their child’s primary school journey.”
For Helen, it’s often the small moments that matter most: a friendly greeting, a reassuring conversation, a calm presence for children.
“A warm smile and a positive outlook can really shape a child’s memory of school,” she says.
A path shaped by skills – and a little encouragement
Helen didn’t initially plan for a career in education, but looking back, she can see how her path naturally led her here.
“When I completed my Business Studies qualifications, my tutor said I’d make a good School Secretary. I suppose they were right!”
Before joining Trinity School, she worked in finance as an administrator and then spent five years organising the Dance World Cup competition – an experience she describes as a great opportunity to test and develop her organisational skills.
“I loved that job, but my children were young and I wanted to be more present at home. When the role at Trinity came up, it felt like the right step.”
Growing alongside the school community
Working in a school environment has shaped Helen both professionally and personally.
“I’ve learned so much about families, education, and how important support from the school team can be. The school office is often the first point of contact for parents, and first impressions matter.”
Those first impressions sometimes extend far beyond administrative queries.
“We’re often the ones parents come to for reassurance or emotional support. That trust is something I really value.”
Making a difference – one improvement at a time
Helen is proud of the positive changes she has helped implement over the years.
“I hope that the organisational procedures I’ve introduced have made daily life easier for staff and families. I’ve always tried to suggest systems that work efficiently and support the whole school community.”
One example stands out: the introduction of hot school lunches.
“Administratively, it was a mammoth task layered onto an already busy day. But all the Business Managers and Administrators worked together with the Department to make the scheme successful for Jersey families. It was challenging – but incredibly rewarding.”
Challenges and rewards of school life
Of course, the role isn’t without its pressures.
“There are times when the pace is so fast you wish you could clone yourself,” Helen admits. “Requests come quickly, and juggling everything can be demanding.”
Yet it’s precisely this fast-paced environment that keeps her motivated.
“I genuinely enjoy coming to work and taking on the challenges that arise. Seeing something through – especially something that improves the school – makes it all worthwhile.”
Frontline during the pandemic
When asked about a moment that illustrates the impact of her role, Helen doesn’t hesitate.
“During the pandemic, everything changed. Schools became the main source of information for families. We had to provide accurate updates, support anxious parents, and help children cope with constantly shifting guidance.”
Even now, she says, families often look to the school office team for reassurance.
“To me, that’s a real compliment. It shows how much trust they place in us and the service we provide.”
Advice for future public servants
For those considering a role in public service, Helen’s advice is heartfelt:
“Working in the public sector, especially in schools, can be demanding. But the impact you have on children and their families is real, and sometimes priceless.”
