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Frequently Asked Questions>  Secretaries

 

Q1:  What qualifications would I need to become a Secretary/School Administrator / Headteachers PA?

A:  These will be clearly set out in the job specification. Usually, word processing, knowledge of databases and spreadsheets and good interpersonal skills would be a minimum. Sometimes knowledge of finance may be an advantage.

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Q2:  What pay scales apply to such posts?

A:  There is no national agreement on pay, however, the Local Authority has guidelines which are clearly linked to job descriptions. These are available on the Schools’ Personnel Intranet site, which is now available to schools via the Portal. 

Click here to access the South West Grid for Learning (Portal) - you will need a username and password to access this. 

For more details contact Helen Faulkner tel:  01454 868958

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Q3:  Are there opportunities for training and development and networking with others?

A:  The National College for School Leadership (NCSL) offer a certificate in School Business Management (CSBM) which is appropriate for School Secretaries. This is mainly online training, is nationally recognised and is paid for from government funding. You would need to apply for the next cohort by contacting the website:
www.ncsl.org.uk

This can be developed further through the Diploma in School Business Management (DSBM). Local Authority workshops are regularly offered on personnel issues, SIMS and finance and can be accessed via the CPD Unit. Network groups based on local cluster arrangements are available for sharing good practice and identifying further training needs. In addition, opportunities exist to gain the Support Work in School qualification. The school CPD Leader should have details of these opportunities.

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Q4:  Will I have access to regular discussions with my line manager about how well I am doing (Performance Review)?

A:  It is hoped that you would, although the length of the cycle will vary from school to school.

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Q5:  How can I improve my basic skills in English, Mathematics and ICT?

A:  There are various ways of gaining a qualification in these skills for life areas. GCSEs and adult Numeracy, adult literacy and ICT qualifications are offered at local Further Education Colleges. Information is available from Filton College or Soundwell College:
www.filton.ac.uk
www.cityofbristol.ac.uk/find_us/soundwell.html

You may prefer to take on online assessment and progress through online lessons followed at your own pace to achieve adult numeracy, adult literacy or ICT. Learn Direct have several centres in these area:
www.learndirect.co.uk

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If you have a question on this topic, that has not been answered by the information on this page, then please email us to let us know:

Liz.Townend@southglos.gov.uk

 


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