Dorset Council is committed to improving outcomes for children and young people in education across Dorset.
We are looking for a motivated and dedicated School Administration & Finance Support Officer (SAFSO) to join our dynamic team.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide telephone and e‑mail helpline support for bespoke finance and MIS systems used by maintained schools and academies.
* Deliver training sessions—both classroom and online—on MIS and finance systems to school staff.
* Develop, update and distribute clear, user‑friendly training materials and technical guidance documents.
* Respond to queries promptly and efficiently, utilizing remote access tools when necessary.
* Visit schools to provide on‑site support, training and system troubleshooting.
* Monitor, forecast and manage service demands and continuously improve service delivery.
Key Qualifications
* Skills, knowledge and competency in supporting financial procedures, school administration and core business applications.
* A responsive, positive and agile approach to problem solving; both reactive to demand and proactive in forecasting needs.
* Commitment to exceptional customer service and meeting business needs.
* Effective and well‑developed communication and presentation skills; tact, diplomacy, objectivity and a confident encouraging approach at all levels.
* The ability to balance demands with priorities and derive real benefits for the traded service.
* Understanding of how ICT systems can enable professional colleagues to deliver quality services and improved outcomes for children and young people in schools.
* A proactive approach to maintaining and developing own training and knowledge related to the role.
* Commitment to continuous learning and improvement to respond to changing demands nationally and locally.
* Experience with school systems and working in a school office is highly desirable but not essential.
Working Hours and Location
This is a part‑time role of 21 hours per week, to be spread over three days. Alternative working patterns, including term‑time arrangements, can be discussed. Flexible hybrid working is available, but you are required to work in the office or at a school site for at least two days per week. The post requires significant travel to schools and training centres; a vehicle or suitable transport must be available for use as needed. A Basic Criminal Records Check will be required, and the role involves access to sensitive information.
Benefits
* Be part of a collaborative team working for a better Dorset.
* Access to a range of benefits and support.
* Training and development opportunities to help your career progress.
Equal Opportunities & Legal
* We welcome applications from everyone and are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. If you declare a disability and meet the essential criteria for the role, we will offer you an interview.
* We offer a recruitment process that is accessible; if you need any reasonable adjustments, please let us know on your application.
* This role is UK‑based, and we will need to confirm your Right to Work as part of the appointment process.
* We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation where different skills, perspectives and backgrounds strengthen our council and the communities we serve.
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