This course offers new Clerks a clear and practical introduction to the role, focusing on the core duties, legal responsibilities and everyday processes needed to support an effective local council. It explains the Clerk’s statutory position as Proper Officer (and often RFO), the governance framework councils must operate within, and the good practice expected from the outset.

Participants are guided through key legislation, meeting administration, financial basics and the professional boundaries required when advising councillors. The session also introduces essential compliance areas such as transparency, data protection and internal controls, giving new Clerks the confidence to manage the role’s varied demands.

Course focus includes:

• The Clerk’s statutory responsibilities and core legal duties
• Governance essentials: powers, duties, Standing Orders and lawful decisions
• Agenda preparation, summons, minute-taking and action management
• Introductory finance: RFO responsibilities, budgeting and audit awareness
• Key compliance areas: Code of Conduct, data protection and transparency
• Working effectively with councillors, Chairs and committees

Designed for newly appointed or aspiring Clerks, this session provides a structured foundation for professional, compliant and confident council administration.