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- Tasks: Support Governors by clerking meetings and managing governance administration.
- Company: Join The Thinking Schools Academy Trust, dedicated to transforming young lives through education.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, competitive pay, training opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing valuable skills and gaining experience.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; training provided to help you succeed.
- Other info: Part-time role with potential for overtime and evening scheduling.
Join our Governance Team
Are you looking for a part-time role in Portsmouth that allows you to impact the life chances of young people in your community? As a Clerk within the Governance & Compliance team, you will join us in offering expert services to our Portsmouth schools and Governors focusing on Clerking and Governance administration. The working hours are 5+ hours per week, equivalent to 1 working day per week and will usually be between 9am and 4pm, with some occasional evening meetings. This role offers flexible working hours which can be scheduled in the evening if preferable. The role also has the ability to take on additional hours on an overtime basis, the level of which can be discussed at interview.
We welcome applications from individuals without prior clerking experience, as you will be supported with excellent training to upskill and become a valued member of our team.
As a Clerk you will:
- Clerk Governor Discipline Committee meetings (when students are suspended or excluded from school) and provide advice and guidance to Governors on statutory guidance such as DfE statutory guidance, SEND code of conduct and the Equality Act. This includes taking accurate minutes, corresponding with all attending parties, following up written communications of outcomes, and providing advice on statutory guidance.
- Provide effective and compliant administration to Governance meetings including circulating agendas and papers, accurate minute taking, agreeing actions and supporting Governors with any queries.
- Manage information including minutes, outcome letters and other correspondence ensuring it is communicated and stored correctly.
- Take part in CPD to improve your knowledge and practice.
For a full list of responsibilities please refer to the attached Job Description.
About Us
The Thinking Schools Academy Trust is a family of schools consisting of both primary and secondary schools across the South East, South and the South West. We believe that every young person in our community deserves to have the best opportunities at life regardless of their individual circumstances. Education is the key to transforming life chances and we support and develop every member of our community to:
- Think about their Thinking
- Be their Best self
- Shape their Success
In this way we transform life chances.
What our Trust will offer you:
- Competitive Pay Scales
- Performance Related Pay: We operate a Professional Growth policy that allows us to reward staff who meet their objectives with additional pay for exceptional performance.
- Pension Scheme Membership: Secure your future with membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Annual Leave: A pro-rata annual leave entitlement of 27 days for support staff, increasing to 31 after 5 years of service.
- Collaborative Support: Benefit from resources, mentoring, and school visits across the Trust.
- Training: Expand your skills and knowledge with opportunities for Trust-funded apprenticeships and training courses.
- Knowledge and Curriculum Sharing: Regular MAT meets alongside our regional hub model offers a network of collaboration for staff to share best practice.
- Cycle2Work Scheme: Salary sacrifice scheme to purchase a new bike with National Insurance savings.
- Staff Wellbeing Focus: Access our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, free flu vaccinations, and eye care vouchers.
- TSTARS Staff Recognition: You will be part of our Staff Recognition Programme, with seasonal rewards for all staff.
- Refer a Friend: Spread the word and benefit financially from our Refer a Friend Scheme.
- Store Discounts: Support staff have access to 'Discount for Teachers' scheme that offers a huge range of money saving deals and vouchers.
- Blue Light Card: School staff can now access the Blue Light Card for discounts across a wide range of categories including holidays, cars, days out and much more!
Next Steps
If you are interested in this Clerk to Governors vacancy and making a valuable contribution to our Trust we would encourage you to apply. Early applications are encouraged, and we reserve the right to close the vacancy if a suitable candidate is found. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. As per KCSIE we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates.
Clerk to Governors - Portsmouth employer: The Thinking Schools Academy Trust
Contact Detail:
The Thinking Schools Academy Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Clerk to Governors - Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the statutory guidance relevant to the role, such as the DfE statutory guidance and the SEND code of conduct. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the responsibilities of a Clerk.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former Clerks to Governors or similar roles. They can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges, which can help you prepare for potential interview questions.
✨Tip Number 3
Highlight any experience you have in administration or minute-taking, even if it's from a different context. Being able to showcase your organisational skills will be beneficial in demonstrating your suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your flexibility regarding working hours, especially since the role may involve evening meetings. Showing that you are adaptable and willing to accommodate the needs of the Governance team can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Clerk to Governors - Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Clerk to Governors position. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Even if you don't have prior clerking experience, think about any transferable skills or experiences that relate to governance, administration, or working with young people. Make sure to emphasise these in your CV and cover letter.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are interested in the role and how your background aligns with the values of The Thinking Schools Academy Trust. Be sure to mention your commitment to supporting young people's education.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for the role of Clerk.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Thinking Schools Academy Trust
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of a Clerk to Governors. Familiarise yourself with terms like 'DfE statutory guidance' and 'SEND code of conduct', as these will likely come up during your interview.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Think about potential scenarios you might face in the role, such as how to handle a Governor's query or what to do if a meeting runs off track. Being able to demonstrate your problem-solving skills will impress the interviewers.
✨Show Your Commitment to Training
Since the role offers training for those without prior experience, express your eagerness to learn and develop. Mention any relevant skills or experiences that show your ability to adapt and grow in a new environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the team dynamics, the types of meetings you'll be clerking, or how the Trust supports ongoing professional development.
