Deputy Clerk to the Governors & Bursar's PA

The Portsmouth Grammar School is a leading co-educational school located in the historic heart of Portsmouth.

The Deputy Clerk to the Governors & Bursar’s PA is responsible for providing proactive, comprehensive and confidential administrative, secretarial and organisational support to the Governors and Bursar. The successful candidate will have experience of a similar role within a professional environment supporting at senior level.

We welcome applications from suitably qualified and experienced candidates who can offer an excellent command of written and spoken English, an exceptional telephone manner and the ability to ensure all visitors to the Bursar receive an efficient and welcoming service, in line with the ethos of the school.

The post is full-time (Monday – Friday, normally 8.00am to 4.00pm, with an unpaid 30 minutes for lunch) and operates throughout the calendar year, requiring later finishes on Governor committee meeting days. This is a busy and varied role and a flexible approach is essential to be able to support fluctuations in workload, occasional evening or weekend meetings and events and to work additional hours where necessary.

The start date will be as soon as possible and can be discussed further at interview.

Person Specification

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate:

·        Substantial senior secretarial and administrative experience, working in a complex environment and supporting at senior level. Previous experience within an educational environment will be desirable but is not essential

·        A positive outlook and a commitment to completing tasks to the highest standard

·        Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, along with a diplomatic and discreet outlook

·        Accuracy and thorough attention to detail

·        Flexibility, adaptability, calmness under pressure, responsiveness to a changing environment, and an understanding of the unpredictable nature of work

·        A pro-active approach to planning and prioritising work on their own initiative, as well as first rate organisational skills

·        The ability to maintain a high work rate and to cope with a range of tasks and competing priorities

·        Proficient use of Microsoft Office, desk-top publishing software, databases and management information systems

·        Knowledge and understanding of data protection matters including the GDPR

·        A willingness and ability to ‘roll up sleeves’ in an emergency along with a professional, unflappable and approachable demeanour

·        An enjoyment of working in the company of children and young people, and of participating fully in the life of the school

·        A high level of personal integrity, honesty, enthusiasm and stamina, and a commitment to maintaining the highest levels of confidentiality

How to apply:

Candidates are asked to apply using the online form linked to our advert on www.tes.com

Any enquires about the role or how to apply are welcome at hr@pgs.org.uk

The closing date is noon on 13th December 2023 and interviews will be scheduled to take place on the school site as soon as possible thereafter, during w/c 18th December 2023. Please note early applications are welcomed and the school may invite suitably qualified and experienced candidates to interview prior to the closing date.