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- Tasks: Support the Deputy Head with administrative tasks and safeguarding responsibilities in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Join Portsmouth Grammar School, a leading co-educational institution in historic Portsmouth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time work, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a dynamic environment with a focus on student welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience in a supportive role.
- Qualifications: Experience in a similar PA role, strong communication skills, and a proactive attitude.
Location: Portsmouth
Salary: £22,709 (pro-rated salary based on FTE salary of £28,386 per annum)
Job type: Permanent, Full Time, Term Time plus one week (to be worked in August immediately prior to the start of the Autumn term)
Closing Date: Midday on 1st June
The Portsmouth Grammar School is a leading co-educational school located in the heart of historic Portsmouth. We are seeking a proactive, experienced PA to support our Deputy Head (Pastoral & Staff Welfare) and Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
The Role
The role holder will support the work of our Deputy Head (Pastoral & Staff Welfare) & Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) who also holds the additional role of Attendance Champion. Responsible for providing proactive, comprehensive and confidential administrative and organisational support, the successful candidate will have experience of a similar role within a professional environment supporting at a senior level. This is a full time, term time role plus one week during school holidays. The hours of work are 37.5 per week, Monday to Friday, and the standard work pattern is 8am to 4pm with an unpaid 30 minutes for lunch. This is a busy and varied role, and a flexible approach is essential to be able to support a dynamic workload with an occasional requirement to work outside of normal hours, during busy times or for occasional meetings or events.
Main Responsibilities
- To proactively manage the diary of the Deputy Head (Pastoral & Staff Welfare) & DSL
- To facilitate visits from external agencies
- To provide information for external agencies, as required
- To proactively liaise with stakeholders to make preparations for meetings, provide data, draft reports
- To act as a CPOMS administrator
- To log, and update the Deputy Head (Pastoral & Staff Welfare) & DSL on, safeguarding information and reports on new pupils and provide reports for pupils moving to other schools
- To arrange, and support, regular scheduled meetings to include Pastoral Review meetings, Online Safety Group, Safer Recruitment and Safeguarding meetings
- To prepare weekly pastoral and bereavement bulletins
- To provide admin support for initiatives led by the Deputy Head (Pastoral & Staff Welfare) & DSL, to include SchoolsMobile, #BeeWell survey
- To support the planning and recording of regular and appropriate safeguarding training for staff and for the DDSL/Safeguarding team
- To support the scheduling and recording of Performance Review and Development for Heads of Year and Health and Wellbeing Centre staff
- To maintain confidentiality and work with sensitivity in all aspects of work
- To work collaboratively with other members of the School Office Team
- To undertake all necessary training required by the school, to include safeguarding and manual handling
- To ensure the safeguarding of pupils
The Ideal Candidate
- A good standard of education with excellent spoken and written English
- Experience of a similar role within a professional environment supporting at senior level
- Positive, solutions focused attitude and a commitment to delivering work to a high standard
- A proactive and organised approach to work, with strong planning skills and the ability to prioritise tasks independently
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a diplomatic, discreet and professional manner
- Flexibility, adaptability and calmness under pressure, with the ability to respond effectively to changing priorities and the unpredictable nature of school life
- Capacity to maintain a high workload, balancing multiple tasks and competing deadlines effectively
- Strong IT proficiency, including confident use of Microsoft Office, desktop publishing software, databases and management information systems
- A sound understanding of data protection requirements, including UK GDPR
- A willingness to ‘pitch in’ when needed, demonstrating a professional, unflappable and approachable demeanour
- Good numerical skills to be able to work confidently with statistical data
- An enjoyment of working with children and young people, and a willingness to participate fully in school life
- High levels of personal integrity, honesty, enthusiasm and resilience together with a commitment to maintaining confidentiality
- Willingness to undertake all necessary safeguarding and other staff training
To Apply
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Portsmouth Grammar School, please click apply to be redirected to our website to complete your application. The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
PA to the Deputy Head (Pastoral & Staff Welfare) & DSL in Portsmouth employer: The Portsmouth Grammar school
Contact Detail:
The Portsmouth Grammar school Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PA to the Deputy Head (Pastoral & Staff Welfare) & DSL in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Portsmouth Grammar School on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s values and recent initiatives. Show us you’re genuinely interested in supporting the Deputy Head and making a difference in pastoral care.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially around safeguarding and administrative support. We want to see how you handle real-life scenarios!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and show us you’re keen on the role.
We think you need these skills to ace PA to the Deputy Head (Pastoral & Staff Welfare) & DSL in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of PA to the Deputy Head. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Show Off Your Skills: Don’t hold back on showcasing your organisational and communication skills! We want to see how you can manage a busy workload and support our Deputy Head effectively, so give us examples of when you've done this before.
Be Professional Yet Approachable: While we love a professional tone, don’t forget to let your personality shine through! We’re looking for someone who can be both discreet and friendly, so balance your professionalism with a touch of warmth in your writing.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Portsmouth Grammar school
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a PA to the Deputy Head (Pastoral & Staff Welfare) and DSL. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks mentioned in the job description, such as diary management and safeguarding protocols. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Since this role requires strong planning and organisational abilities, prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed multiple tasks or projects. Be ready to discuss how you prioritised your workload and adapted to changing circumstances, as this will highlight your suitability for the dynamic nature of the job.
✨Demonstrate Discretion and Professionalism
Given the confidential nature of the role, it's crucial to convey your understanding of maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information. Share specific instances where you've had to exercise discretion in previous roles, as this will reassure the interviewers of your integrity and professionalism.
✨Engage with the School's Values
Research Portsmouth Grammar School's ethos and values, especially regarding pastoral care and safeguarding. During the interview, express your alignment with these values and your enthusiasm for contributing to the school community. This will show that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely invested in the school's mission.