PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
ESSENTIAL
Professional, fair and impartial conduct, and the ability to gain the confidence and respect of Chairs, governors, headteachers and senior officers.
Confidence to support and challenge constructively.
A strategic approach, with a clear focus on accountability, transparency and continuous improvement.
The ability to work independently and to take personal responsibility for prioritising work.
Willingness to learn new skills.
DESIRABLE
A proactive approach to innovation and improving governance arrangements.
A positive attitude to improvement and change.
RELEVANT QUALIFICATIONS AND TRAINING
ESSENTIAL
A further or higher education qualification in a relevant field.
DESIRABLE
Specific qualifications or training in school governance, strategic leadership or public administration.
Evidence of continuing professional development relevant to governance, leadership or accountability.
Training on dealing with complaints or resolving disputes.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
ESSENTIAL
Experience of providing strategic, professional and impartial advice to stakeholders at a senior level.
Experience of professionally supporting and challenging leaders to improve effectiveness and performance.
Experience of undertaking research and presenting information both orally and in writing.
DESIRABLE
Experience of working with school governing bodies or similar governance structures.
Experience of working within or in conjunction with a Local Authority or other public body.
Experience of leading or facilitating professional forums or networks.
Experience of dealing with complaints.
Experience of contributing to the development or implementation of digital platforms or information systems.
SKILLS AND SPECIALIST KNOWLEDGE
ESSENTIAL
Excellent verbal and written communication skills in Welsh and English, with the ability to present complex information clearly and impartially.
The ability to prepare high-quality reports, policies, procedures and presentations.
Strong analytical skills to identify risks, patterns and areas to strengthen, and offer practical solutions.
Facilitation and presentation skills, including experience of presenting to various groups.
The ability to work effectively with other services and partners.
The ability to work in a team and independently.
Good interpersonal skills.
Robust computer skills.
DESIRABLE
A strong knowledge of the role, responsibilities and statutory duties of school Governing Bodies in Wales.
An understanding of the principles of accountability, transparency and effective governance.
Up-to-date information of legislation, national guidance and policies relating to school governance and education in Wales.
An understanding of digital systems to support governance, record decisions and share information.
LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
ESSENTIAL
Listening and Speaking -Higher Level
Able to follow a conversation or discussion through the medium of Welsh and English on a professional level and discuss general day to day topics in the field in order to present information and express opinions.
Able to give a pre-prepared presentation and respond to any comments and questions on it in Welsh or English
Reading and Comprehension -Higher Level
Able to understand standard written Welsh and English; both formal and informal.
Able to gather information from various sources such as letters, reports, articles through the medium of Welsh and English in order to fulfil the post.
Writing -Higher Level
Present written information confidently by letter, more detailed and technical report formats, and respond to written requests conveying information, ideas and opinion in Welsh and English (help is available to check the work).
