FdA Education Administration

Student profile

Janine Rodger - FdA Education Administration

I had worked for an education organisation for 18 months when I was asked if I would be interested in the Foundation Degree Course at Portsmouth University.  Having worked for 25 years within the commercial industry, I felt that learning more about the world of administration within an educational establishment would be beneficial.

The course is designed for administrators and it is proving to be very beneficial. I am now partway through Year 2 and find that I am consistently putting into practice theories that I have learnt.  Understanding how teams operate, thinking about the culture of your workplace and analysing the movement of data within an organisation are some of the topics we have learnt about.

Learning within a team environment where we meet at tutorials is very effective. However, one of the most beneficial aspects, is the online discussions we all share. This has proven to be helpful and in some cases, a vital part of our learning as we have all supported and aided each other through the first year.  Understanding someone else’s environment can provide answers to queries within your own organisation.

As a result of my studies on this course, I have recently been promoted to Marketing Manager.  This is a new role within my organisation and I feel privileged to be able to move this area forward and enhance our image, brand and promote the school within the local community.  Understanding my environment and the ‘workings of a school’  through the various units on the course has widened my knowledge and given me new confidence. 

I reflect frequently on how interesting the educational environment is with the constant changes and how we have to adapt to new initiatives.  I feel much more prepared for any future changes that may occur.

Student profile

Sarah Bayliss - FdA Education Administration

Having worked as a University Assistant Administrator for 8 years I felt in a bit of a rut. When I saw an advert for the FdA in Education Administration I felt the time was right for me to progress my career and professional development.

When I started the course I lacked confidence in my own abilities. The course has enabled me to reflect on every day practices and I now have a better understanding of why things are done in a certain way. I can now find ways of improving practices using theory, legislation and role play scenarios that I have learnt during the course.

My ultimate aim was to gain a recognised qualification in my area of expertise that would enhance my future prospects within my own organisation or possibly open up new opportunities within other environments. This opportunity came a lot sooner than I ever imagined as in August 2011 I was promoted to Office Coordinator and PA to the Director. In my new role I am a line manager and the skills and knowledge I have gained on this course have prepared me for the extra responsibility.

This course has given me the opportunity to gain an insight into the different roles of education administrators. I have made many new friends over the past year and everyone has encouraged and helped each other along the way. Our university tutor has been fantastic and is there to provide support and motivate us every step of the way. There is lots of hard work however it is all worthwhile because I have felt a great sense of achievement. I know that at end of the three years I will have a recognised qualification that will set me apart from other administrators.

I really liked the idea that this was a work based learning course and having my line manager as my mentor has enabled me to work more closely and build on our working relationship. All my work colleagues have been really supportive and the coursework has encouraged me to work more closely with them all and develop more effective practices. Below are some of their comments:

"I think it's terrific that you are doing this course and have been incredibly impressed by the hard work and interest that you have put into it. I enjoy talking to you about the various tasks you have had to do and think the organisation has benefitted from you doing it."

"You have helped me think in new ways about what we do and our work culture. I always learn new things and look forward to more conversations with you as the course progresses!"