PA to Principalship in Shaw

Oldham College is one of the largest further education providers in Greater Manchester, supporting thousands of students each year to develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need for their future. We work closely with local employers, universities, and community partners to deliver education and training that meets the needs of our region. Our staff play a vital role in creating a supportive, inclusive environment where students and colleagues can thrive. Every role at the College contributes to helping people achieve their potential.

We are seeking a committed Personal Assistant to support the effective delivery of College services and priorities. Interviews for this role will take place on the 8th October 2026.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

In this role you will:

• Provide a professional, proactive PA service to the Deputy Principal, managing their diary, meetings, travel, and correspondence.
• Prepare and coordinate reports, briefings, presentations, and other documentation on the Deputy Principal's behalf.
• Support governance duties by coordinating papers, briefings, and action logs for Strategic Leadership Team, Board, and Committee meetings, and tracking follow-through on actions.
• Coordinate Deputy Principal-led strategic initiatives and improvement projects, monitoring progress and milestones.
• Lead planning and delivery of VIP visits, stakeholder engagements, and significant college events, representing the Deputy Principal where needed.
• Build and maintain relationships with governors, colleagues, and external partners, including supporting senior-level recruitment activity.
• Handle highly sensitive and confidential matters with discretion, while maintaining effective office systems and records in line with data protection requirements.
• Carry out duties in line with College policies and procedures, including safeguarding and equality commitments.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) in Business Admin or a similar business-related qualification.
• Previous experience at supervisory level in an administrative environment.
• Experience of drafting reports, papers, and minutes.
• Excellent IT skills, including good keyboard/word processing skills (50 wpm) and working knowledge of spreadsheets and databases (preferably Word and Excel).
• Ability to analyse and synthesise information, presenting it clearly and precisely in both written and verbal forms to a range of customers and staff.

WHY JOIN US

We offer a supportive working environment with opportunities to develop and progress. Benefits include:

• 49 days’ holiday, supporting work–life balance, including 30 bookable days plus bank holidays, efficiency days, and Christmas closure.
• Pension contributions of 16.8%.
• Free counselling and wellbeing support.
• Retail discounts through our benefits platform.
• Enhanced family-friendly policies.
• Paid special leave.
• Training and development opportunities.
• Free breakfast Fridays.
• On-site facilities including canteens and a day nursery.
• Free parking and electric car scheme.
• Cycle to work scheme.

INCLUSION AND FLEXIBILITY

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are a Disability Confident employer and guarantee an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria. We support the Armed Forces Covenant and welcome applications from serving personnel, veterans, and military families. Flexible working options may be available depending on the role.

SAFEGUARDING

The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. This role is subject to pre-employment checks, which may include an enhanced DBS check, DfE barred list check, online searches, and references. It is a criminal offence under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 to apply for regulated activity roles if barred from working with children or vulnerable adults.

USE OF AI IN APPLICATIONS

We recognise that candidates may choose to use AI tools to support their application. If you do use AI, please ensure the information you submit accurately reflects your own skills, experience, and achievements. You may be asked to discuss your application during the recruitment process.