Course Overview This Personal Assistant (PA) course is designed to provide learners with essential skills and knowledge to excel in a variety of administrative roles. Covering everything from business communication to organisational skills, this course ensures learners are equipped to manage office duties efficiently, support executives, and contribute to the smooth running of an organisation. By completing this course, learners will gain a solid understanding of the core functions of a PA, enabling them to confidently take on responsibilities in any professional setting. Course Description The course delves into key areas including business telephone etiquette, managing travel arrangements, organising meetings, and developing effective communication skills. Learners will explore the nuances of record-keeping, minute-taking, and scheduling, essential for ensuring a well-structured office environment. With a strong emphasis on time management, organisational skills, and business writing, this course prepares learners to confidently manage multiple tasks and responsibilities in fast-paced work environments. By the end, learners will have developed the ability to enhance productivity and support executive operations effectively. Course Modules Module 01: Introduction to Personal Assistant Module 02: Business Telephone Skills Module 03: Representing Your Boss and Company Module 04: Mail Services and Shipping Module 05: Travel Arrangements Module 06: Organising Meetings and Conferences Module 07: Time Management Module 08: Record Keeping and Filing Systems Module 09: Business Writing Skills Module 10: Organisational Skills Module 11: Communication Skills Module 12: Customer Service Module 13: Effective Planning and Scheduling Module 14: Invoicing/Petty Cash Module 15: Introduction to Minute Writing Module 16: Preparation for Minute Taking Module 17: The Meeting Structure Module 18: Minute Meeting, Decision and Action Module 19: Roles and Responsibility of Minute Taker Module 20: Tips for Minute Taking Module 21: Technology in Minute Taking Module 22: Building Confidence (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to enhance their administrative skills. Professionals aiming to advance their career as a Personal Assistant. Beginners with an interest in office management and administrative roles. Anyone interested in developing organisational and communication skills. Career Path Personal Assistant Executive Assistant Administrative Assistant Office Manager Office Administrator Executive Support Specialist
Elite EA/PA Forum We are delighted to announce the Elite EA/PA Forum for ANZ will be on the 25th of September 2025. Our workshop aims to: Enhance your influence and impact by mastering assertive communication, negotiation, and self-advocacy skills. Stay composed and solution-focused in high-pressure situations with practical tools for crisis management and clear decision-making. Embrace evolving technology by understanding how AI and automation can streamline your role and boost efficiency. Future-proof your career by building strategic value, resilience, and adaptability in an ever-changing professional landscape. Keynote Address with Q&A from the audience: What to expect from Sam's Keynote: With over 30 years supporting leaders at the highest levels, Sam Cohen brings a wealth of insight, experience, and stories (the kind she can share) to the stage. From 18 years serving within The Royal Household - including as Deputy Private Secretary and Press Secretary to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II - to working with The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, running the Prime Ministerās Office at Downing Street, and serving as Chief of Staff to the global CEO of Rio Tinto, Samās career is a masterclass in discretion, diplomacy, and delivering at the top. In this exclusive keynote, Beyond the Role, Sam will explore how Executive Assistants donāt just support leaders - they shape leadership, drive strategy, and build legacy from behind the scenes. Join us for this rare opportunity to hear from someone whoās been at the epicentre of power - and bring your questions! The keynote will include a live Q&A, where you can ask Sam about her remarkable career, leadership insights, and how to truly excel in high-performance environments. (Donāt ask her what the Queen kept in her handbag - sheās not telling.) Sam Cohen Career Bio: Sam Cohen has spent the last 30 years working to support leaders in the public and private sectors. Sam spent 18 years serving The Royal Household, as Deputy Private Secretary to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and Press Secretary to The Queen. Sam also served as Private Secretary to The Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Following this time, Sam worked as Director of the Prime Ministerās Office at Downing Street under Boris Johnson and, most recently, was Chief of Staff to the global CEO at Rio Tinto. Source: ABC News - YouTube Channel. Facilitator - AM: The Future-Proofed Assistant: Speak Up, Stand Out & Shape Your Career Path How to reimagine your Assistant role in 2025 and beyond - How the EA role is evolving (and what Executives now expect) & why Assistants who think like strategists will be indispensable Assertiveness as an Assistant ā The key to retaining your role & the difference between being āhelpfulā and being āheardā Self-Advocacy as a Career Growth Strategy ā The importance of advocating for your career development, workload boundaries and recognition Own Your Professional Future - Map your career development. Whether you're an EA for life or looking to a role beyond in the future, this is for you. Ruth Kilah Career Bio: Ruth is an international executive career coach and founder of Hoxton Hyde ā Executive Career Coaching & Mentoring, delivering 1:1 and group programs for experienced Executive Assistants. She specialises in helping EAs step into higher-level roles, increase their income, and expand their professional impact. With 14 yearsā experience supporting C-suite executives in Australia and the UK, Ruth brings deep industry insight and a strategic approach to career development. She empowers Assistants to gain clarity on their next move, adopt a strategic mindset, communicate their value effectively, and lead their own growth conversations with confidence. A former EA turned Stakeholder Relations and Project Manager, Ruth launched Hoxton Hyde in 2018 after spotting a clear gap in the market for tailored coaching for career-driven EAs. She is a recognised member of the World Administrators Alliance and a respected thought leader in the EA space, regularly sharing insights via LinkedIn and Instagram. Ruth is also a certified fitness and wellness coach, passionate about helping Assistants achieve long-term career fulfilment through intentional development and well-being. Panel: Crisis Mode: What to do when everything goes wrong Master a step-by-step approach to prioritising and problem-solving under pressure. Strengthen emotional resilience and calm decision-making during unexpected disruptions. Learn how to communicate clearly and lead from behind in high-stress situations. Emma-Kate Bos Bio Emma-Kate works alongside the CEO at Squadron Energy, one of Australiaās leading renewable energy companies. With over 28 years of experience in Executive Assistant and Operational roles supporting business leaders in professional services, politics, membership industries, sporting and not-for-profit organisations, Emma-Kate has a deep understanding of business support roles and has managed large teams of assistants and receptionists. She is passionate about developing and mentoring team members Emma-Kate holds an Associate Degree in Law, Mini MBA and Certificate in Public Relations. Sepi Noland Bio Sepi has also worked as an EO for Deloitte and spent 18 years previously as an Executive Assistant at the ATO, Law Council of Australia, Grains Research and Development Corporation and Air Services Australia. Facilitator - PM: AI & Automation: How Technology is Changing the Assistantās Role Understand the latest AI tools reshaping administrative and operational support. Identify which tasks can be streamlined or delegated using automation. Reframe your role by leveraging technology to add strategic value and stay future-ready. Who will attend this event? Executive Assistant (EA) Personal Assistant (PA) Virtual Assistant (VA) Legal Secretary Legal Executive Assistant Administrative Assistant Office Manager Health Care Office Manager Chief of Staff Additional roles may be relevant depending on role responsibilities along with development opportunities. This workshop is open to females, male including trans women/males and non-binary professionals. Group Rate Discounts: To discuss our group rates in more detail, please email support@elite-forums.com and provide the following: Group Number (How many would like to attend) Event Date (If numerous dates, please advise if we are splitting attendees across multiple dates) Attendee Contact details (Or request our Group Rate Document. Complete and return - we'll sort the rest.) Group discounts are on request - see below group rate discount brackets: š§© You just need one piece to come together - to unlock your Elite Potential. š
Elite EA/PA Forum We are delighted to announce the Elite EA/PA Forum for ANZ will be on the 25th of September 2025. Our workshop aims to: Enhance your influence and impact by mastering assertive communication, negotiation, and self-advocacy skills. Stay composed and solution-focused in high-pressure situations with practical tools for crisis management and clear decision-making. Embrace evolving technology by understanding how AI and automation can streamline your role and boost efficiency. Future-proof your career by building strategic value, resilience, and adaptability in an ever-changing professional landscape. Keynote Address with Q&A from the audience: What to expect from Sam's Keynote: With over 30 years supporting leaders at the highest levels, Sam Cohen brings a wealth of insight, experience, and stories (the kind she can share) to the stage. From 18 years serving within The Royal Household - including as Deputy Private Secretary and Press Secretary to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II - to working with The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, running the Prime Ministerās Office at Downing Street, and serving as Chief of Staff to the global CEO of Rio Tinto, Samās career is a masterclass in discretion, diplomacy, and delivering at the top. In this exclusive keynote, Beyond the Role, Sam will explore how Executive Assistants donāt just support leaders - they shape leadership, drive strategy, and build legacy from behind the scenes. Join us for this rare opportunity to hear from someone whoās been at the epicentre of power - and bring your questions! The keynote will include a live Q&A, where you can ask Sam about her remarkable career, leadership insights, and how to truly excel in high-performance environments. (Donāt ask her what the Queen kept in her handbag - sheās not telling.) Sam Cohen Career Bio: Sam Cohen has spent the last 30 years working to support leaders in the public and private sectors. Sam spent 18 years serving The Royal Household, as Deputy Private Secretary to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and Press Secretary to The Queen. Sam also served as Private Secretary to The Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Following this time, Sam worked as Director of the Prime Ministerās Office at Downing Street under Boris Johnson and, most recently, was Chief of Staff to the global CEO at Rio Tinto. Source: ABC News - YouTube Channel. Facilitator - AM: The Future-Proofed Assistant: Speak Up, Stand Out & Shape Your Career Path How to reimagine your Assistant role in 2025 and beyond - How the EA role is evolving (and what Executives now expect) & why Assistants who think like strategists will be indispensable Assertiveness as an Assistant ā The key to retaining your role & the difference between being āhelpfulā and being āheardā Self-Advocacy as a Career Growth Strategy ā The importance of advocating for your career development, workload boundaries and recognition Own Your Professional Future - Map your career development. Whether you're an EA for life or looking to a role beyond in the future, this is for you. Ruth Kilah Career Bio: Ruth is an international executive career coach and founder of Hoxton Hyde ā Executive Career Coaching & Mentoring, delivering 1:1 and group programs for experienced Executive Assistants. She specialises in helping EAs step into higher-level roles, increase their income, and expand their professional impact. With 14 yearsā experience supporting C-suite executives in Australia and the UK, Ruth brings deep industry insight and a strategic approach to career development. She empowers Assistants to gain clarity on their next move, adopt a strategic mindset, communicate their value effectively, and lead their own growth conversations with confidence. A former EA turned Stakeholder Relations and Project Manager, Ruth launched Hoxton Hyde in 2018 after spotting a clear gap in the market for tailored coaching for career-driven EAs. She is a recognised member of the World Administrators Alliance and a respected thought leader in the EA space, regularly sharing insights via LinkedIn and Instagram. Ruth is also a certified fitness and wellness coach, passionate about helping Assistants achieve long-term career fulfilment through intentional development and well-being. Panel: Crisis Mode: What to do when everything goes wrong Master a step-by-step approach to prioritising and problem-solving under pressure. Strengthen emotional resilience and calm decision-making during unexpected disruptions. Learn how to communicate clearly and lead from behind in high-stress situations. Emma-Kate Bos Bio Emma-Kate works alongside the CEO at Squadron Energy, one of Australiaās leading renewable energy companies. With over 28 years of experience in Executive Assistant and Operational roles supporting business leaders in professional services, politics, membership industries, sporting and not-for-profit organisations, Emma-Kate has a deep understanding of business support roles and has managed large teams of assistants and receptionists. She is passionate about developing and mentoring team members Emma-Kate holds an Associate Degree in Law, Mini MBA and Certificate in Public Relations. Sepi Noland Bio Sepi has also worked as an EO for Deloitte and spent 18 years previously as an Executive Assistant at the ATO, Law Council of Australia, Grains Research and Development Corporation and Air Services Australia. Facilitator - PM: AI & Automation: How Technology is Changing the Assistantās Role Understand the latest AI tools reshaping administrative and operational support. Identify which tasks can be streamlined or delegated using automation. Reframe your role by leveraging technology to add strategic value and stay future-ready. Who will attend this event? Executive Assistant (EA) Personal Assistant (PA) Virtual Assistant (VA) Legal Secretary Legal Executive Assistant Administrative Assistant Office Manager Health Care Office Manager Chief of Staff Additional roles may be relevant depending on role responsibilities along with development opportunities. This workshop is open to females, male including trans women/males and non-binary professionals. Group Rate Discounts: To discuss our group rates in more detail, please email support@elite-forums.com and provide the following: Group Number (How many would like to attend) Event Date (If numerous dates, please advise if we are splitting attendees across multiple dates) Attendee Contact details (Or request our Group Rate Document. Complete and return - we'll sort the rest.) Group discounts are on request - see below group rate discount brackets: š§© You just need one piece to come together - to unlock your Elite Potential. š
In this practical workshop session we will explore ways of including young people of all ages who experience anxiety some of whom may well be on the autism spectrum. The session will be values based and practical and will aim to allow the sharing of experiences and good practice as well as promoting innovative approaches to inclusion through the design of best practice. Course Category Autism and Communication Inclusion Parents and Carers Behaviour and Relationships Meeting emotional needs Description In this practical workshop session we will explore ways of including anxious children in mainstream schools and settings. The session will be values based and practical and will aim to allow the sharing of experiences and good practice as well as promoting innovative approaches to inclusion through the design of best practice. Family perspectives and experiences will also be explored. This is not a āmedical modelā day on anxiety.Ā Testimonials āReally gave me an idea of how people feel and helped me think how to plan to meet their needs.ā āReally useful insightsāĀ Learning Objectives Increased confidence and understanding regarding including anxious children Access to a wider range of practical strategies to impact on anxiety Deeper understanding of core values surrounding inclusion New skills and processes to strengthen the inclusion of anxious children Insights and understanding of sensory sensitivities Understanding increased in area of movement differences Who Is It For? Personal Assistants Teachers Heads and deputies Guidance staff Learning support teams SENCOs Primary and secondary teachers Parents Brothers and sisters Local authority support services Community workers and carers Course Content The course answers the questions : What is anxiety? How do we go about including anxious children? Can we understand more deeply what is going on underneath concerning behaviours? Key themes include: Movement differences Supports and Accommodations for Sensory Sensitivities Developing Friendships and Peer Support Learning to Listen
The Extreme Person Centred Thinking Tools are a set of tools to support dreams, build relationships and connections and promote capacity thinking. The aim of the extreme person centred thinking tools training is not to teach people how to facilitate plans, instead it is about sharing tools that can be used to listen and reflect and creatively involve people in planning their own lives. Online Course now available viaĀ Teachable PlatformĀ ā Person Centred Mindset Learn at your own pace⦠lots of text and video support Course Category Person Centred Planning Description The Extreme Person Centred Thinking Tools are a set of tools to support dreams, build relationships and connections and promote capacity thinking. The aim of the extreme person centred thinking tools training is not to teach people how to facilitate plans, instead it is about sharing tools that can be used to listen and reflect and creatively involve people in planning their own lives. Many of these tools have been taken fromĀ MAPSĀ andĀ PATH, and parts also build on the person centred thinking tools. Testimonials Be the first⦠Learning Objectives This course will provide participants with an understanding of how to use a range of extreme person centred thinking tools to; Use graphics to facilitate creative conversations Learn from peopleās stories and histories Listen to and facilitate dreams and nightmares Think about what is positive and possible Connect people with their communities Facilitate inclusion Who Is It For? Person Centred Planning Facilitators Support Workers / Day Centre Officers / Residential Workers Personal Assistants / Teaching Assistants Families Self Advocates Social Workers CAMHS teams Primary and secondary staff teams SENCOs Local Authority Support Services Course Content The course will introduce participants to a range of tools focused around supporting relationships, realising dreams, connecting people with their communities and capacity thinking. Participants will be coached in using the tools and given the opportunity to practice the tools and their graphic facilitation skills in a safe environment. The course will answer the following questions: How can we use ideas fromĀ MAPĀ andĀ PATHĀ in our day to day work? How can I use graphics to facilitate conversations? How can we learn more about the people we support? How can we start to think about connecting people to their communities? If you liked this course you may well like: PERSON CENTRED PLANNING USING PATH AND MAPS
In this practical workshop session we will explore ways of including people who have been labelled as being on the autism spectrum. The session will be values based and practical and will aim to allow the sharing of experiences and good practice as well promoting innovative approaches to inclusion through the design of best practice. Online Course now available viaĀ Teachable PlatformĀ ā Understanding Movement Differences Learn at your own pace⦠lots of text and video support Course Category Autism and Communication Inclusion Parents and Carers Behaviour and Relationships Description In this practical workshop session we will explore ways of including people who have been labelled as being on the autism spectrum. The session will be values based and practical and will aim to allow the sharing of experiences and good practice as well promoting innovative approaches to inclusion through the design of best practice. Family perspectives and experiences will also be explored. This is not a āmedical modelā day on autism. Our motto for the day is āPeople do things for a Reason (and the reason isnāt autism).ā We make full use of first hand accounts of the experience of autism ā the autobiographies ā to deepen participantsā understanding of what it means to be labelled āautisticā āWe are all much more simply human than otherwise, be we happy and successful, contented and detached, miserable and disordered, or whatever.āHARRY STACK SULLIVAN Testimonials āVery respectful of people on the spectrum.ā āReally gave me an idea of how people feel.ā āWays of reaching a person not a condition.āCLAIRE Learning Objectives Increased confidence regarding including autistic people Access to a wider range of practical strategies to impact on communication and behaviour issues Deeper understanding of core values surrounding inclusion New skills and processes to strengthen the inclusion of autistic people Who Is It For? Social Care workers Personal Assistants Early years and school based practitioners Heads and deputies Guidance staff Learning support teams SENCOs Primary and secondary teachers Parents Brothers and sisters Local authority support services Community workers and carers Course Content The course answers the questions : What is autism? How do we go about including autistic people? What does autism have to do with me? Key themes include: Movement differences Strategies for Facilitating Communication Supports and Accommodations for Sensory Sensitivities Developing Friendships and Peer Support School and Family Partnerships Learning to Listen Positive Behavioural Supports
Course Overview: This Personal Productivity Course is designed to equip learners with the essential skills and techniques to enhance their productivity, both personally and professionally. Covering key principles of time management, goal setting, and focus, the course provides valuable strategies to help individuals manage their tasks more efficiently, reduce distractions, and achieve their goals effectively. Learners will gain a deeper understanding of how to prioritise, manage workloads, and stay motivated, all while cultivating a mindset for continuous improvement. Upon completion, learners will be able to apply these skills to increase productivity and performance in various aspects of life and work. Course Description: The Personal Productivity Course delves into essential topics such as setting achievable goals, mastering prioritisation, eliminating distractions, and fostering self-motivation. Learners will explore strategies to optimise their time management, cultivate focus, and develop a systematic approach to tackling tasks. With practical insights, the course will guide individuals in overcoming procrastination, managing stress, and ensuring long-term success. The course is suitable for beginners and professionals alike, providing the foundation for enhanced productivity and a more balanced, goal-oriented life. By the end of the course, learners will have the skills to effectively plan, execute, and measure their productivity in both personal and professional settings. Course Modules: ⢠Module 01: Introduction ⢠Module 02: Core Principles of Focus & Productivity (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to improve their personal productivity. Professionals aiming to enhance career development through better time management. Beginners with an interest in learning productivity techniques for professional or personal growth. Anyone looking to optimise their focus, organisation, and performance. Career Path: Personal Assistant Project Manager Executive Assistant Operations Manager Team Leader Entrepreneur Administrative Coordinator Freelance Consultant
Own Your Success is delighted to bring you the 'Bitesize Masterclass' with Sophie Chapman. Not everyone has the flexibility to step away from the office for in-person events or dedicate extended periods from their packed schedules for full or half-day sessions. So we've put together our 'Bitesize Masterclasses' to help assistants develop and learn from professionals such as Sophie - shorter sessions, same big impact! Ā Bitesize MasterclassĀ with Sophie Chapman Sophie Chapman EA to Steven BartlettĀ Although Sophie initially aspired to be a talent agent, she swiftly realised that her career passions lay within the administrative/operational aspects of working life. Following her graduation in Entertainment Management from LIPA in 2008, she gained extensive work experience across renowned entities such as Sony BMG and Sky One, operating within the spheres of TV, music, radio, and the events industry. Her pivotal entry into a PA role came while supporting musician Eliza Doolittle. After five years, Sophie opted to move home to Liverpool and accept a contract supporting Sir Dave Brailsford of Team Sky. Once complete, Sophie received an offer for a position based in the US with an A-list musician. However, her journey led her to discover her "forever role", providing support to Steven Bartlett. Steven, the Founder and former Group CEO of Social Chain, is a multifaceted individualāa published author, podcaster, entrepreneur, and presently, the youngest-ever Dragon on BBC's Dragon's Den. Sophie has been instrumental as Steven's Executive Assistant, operating on a global scale, in both private and corporate realms for six years.Ā Kate Wood Masterclass FacilitatorĀ Kate will aid the facilitation of this Bitesize Masterclass, ensuring that crucial topics are covered while prioritising an environment where every participant feels acknowledged, valued, and heard throughout the session. Kate is a business owner, qualified coach, consultant, facilitator, trainer, podcaster and public speaker with a background in learning & development, employee engagement strategy, continuous improvement, communications and marketing. After 25 years working across the board in blue-chip, non-profit and civil service organisations she now provides support to businesses looking to evolve and become great places for people to work in and with. Having worked with a wide variety of clients from school-age students to senior executives, she has been designing and running workshops, seminars and classes in person or via web events since she left long commutes and corporate roles behind in 2014 when she created her first two businesses. Her passion is improving working relationships between roles and functions and supporting people to discover their best selves at work. She does this in the automotive industry, financial services, medical teams, charities, global media, retail, education systems and the arts. When sheās not working, she and her classic car Monty Morgan can be found zipping around the English countryside. Session topics: How to establish your self-leadership position in your EA capacity Transition from a PA to EA Career development Boundary setting and wellbeing Q&A with the audience - Open-Book Q&A What is a Bitesize Masterclass? Short burst session. Keynote speakers discuss key themes/topics they are passionate about. Q&A with the audience attendees - ask the questions you don't usually get to ask! Run time of 90 minutes (max 2 hours) - we block out two hours in case we overspill on questions. š Virtually delivered - attend from anywhere that's convenient for you! Packed with content, tips and tricks and from industry professionals who can share their experiences with you. Who will attend? PA's EA's Administrative roles --------------------------- At Own Your Success, we strongly believe in fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated and discrimination of any form is unwelcome. We welcome attendees from all backgrounds, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, ability, or any other characteristic. Discrimination has no place in our workshops, and we are committed to creating a respectful and supportive space for all participants to learn and grow together. ---------------------------
Ready to stop sending your resume into the void? Itās time to master a fundamental life skill for every ambitious administrative professional: crafting a resume that doesnāt just list your entire work history, but actually it gets you interviews. Join us for an intensive workshop where we reveal the industry secrets behind the art and science of standout resumes.