APPRENTICE BUSINESS SUPPORT OFFICER

Act as first point of contact at Beeson House, greeting visitors and handling phone and email enquiries Support day to day office administration, including filing, scanning and managing electronic records Help prepare, format and collate agendas, reports and papers for council and committee meetings Upload approved minutes, policies and other documents to the council website and keep key information up to date Assist with logging and tracking resident enquiries, complaints, Freedom of Information and subject access requests Help administer room and space bookings at Beeson House, including responding to enquiries and maintaining the bookings diary Issue standard hire agreements, record returns and help ensure rooms are set up and ready for hirers Support basic finance administration, for example providing booking information for invoices, recording payments and simple data entry Provide administrative support for community events and engagement activities, such as booking lists and attendance records Attend regular off the job training and complete tasks and assignments for the Level 3 Business Administrator apprenticeship

Training:

Off the job training will be delivered by City Skills Limited (UKPRN: 10065422) via a weekly day release model. The apprentice will normally attend training one day per week online, depending on the provider’s timetable.

On the job training will take place at Southwater Parish Council’s offices at Beeson House, Southwater. The apprentice will be supported by their line manager and colleagues, with regular one to one meetings, mentoring and job shadowing. Training will be planned to ensure the apprentice receives at least 20 percent off the job training time across the programme.

Training Outcome:

This is a fixed term apprenticeship position for the duration of the apprenticeship. The Council’s working assumption is that, subject to satisfactory performance, funding and business need, the role will convert to a permanent Business Support Officer position on completion of the apprenticeship. Any such confirmation would be made nearer the end of the apprenticeship and cannot be absolutely guaranteed. From there CILCA qualification could be studied and completed presenting opportunities to more senior roles.

Employer Description:

Southwater Parish Council is a proactive local authority serving the growing community of Southwater in West Sussex. We look after a range of local services and facilities, including community buildings, open spaces, play areas and support for local community groups and events.

We have a small, friendly office team based at Beeson House in Lintot Square. The team supports elected councillors, organises council and committee meetings, manages enquiries from residents and partners, and ensures the Council meets its legal and financial responsibilities. Southwater Parish Council holds the Gold Award under the Local Council Award Scheme, reflecting our commitment to high standards, good governance and staff development.

Working Hours :
Contracted to work 37 hours per week, Monday to Thursday (8:30 am to 4:30 pm) and Friday (8:30 am to 4:00 pm), including a minimum of 6 hours per week of off the job apprenticeship training during paid working time.

Skills:
Communication skills,IT skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Customer care skills,Problem solving skills,Presentation skills,Administrative skills,Number skills,Analytical skills,Logical,Team working,Creative