Explore the different ways to get into this role. You can get into this job through:

• Obtaining formal qualifications
• Completing an apprenticeship
• Starting with entry-level administrative work and graduating to project-focused roles.

Formal Qualifications

Boosting your CV with a professional qualification can really help you stand out, especially if you’re still building your project experience. Here are some popular choices to consider:

• APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) – This certification from the Association for Project Management covers the essential principles of project management.
• PRINCE2 Foundation – Recognised globally, this qualification is one of the most sought-after in project management and is highly regarded by employers.
• BCS PPSO Essentials – Offered by the British Computer Society, this course is a great starting point for anyone looking to kick off a career in a Project Management Office (PMO).

Entry requirements:

You’ll usually need: There are no formal entry requirements, thus these certifications are available to anyone interested in pursuing a career in project management.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships offer a fantastic pathway into a PSO career, combining practical work experience with structured training. Some popular choices include:

• Associate Project Manager Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
• Project Manager Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
• IT Project Support Officer Apprenticeship

Entry requirements:

You’ll usually need:

• At least five GCSEs (or equivalent) in grades 9-4 (A-C), including English and Maths.
• Higher and degree apprenticeships may also require applicable A-levels, a Level 3 certification, or previous job experience.

Entry-level Administrative Experience

If you’re new to the project world, starting out in an administrative role can be a fantastic way to build up the skills you need and eventually transition into a project-focused career. Here are a few options to consider:

• Project Assistant or Project Administrator – These positions give you hands-on experience in a project setting, where you’ll manage project documentation, provide administrative support, and keep track of deliverables.
• Administrative or Business Support Officer – TWorking in general administrative roles within larger organisations, like the Civil Service, can involve tasks that support projects and help you hone essential organisational and communication skills.
• Entry-level roles that don’t require experience – Many employers, especially those posting on sites like Indeed, are on the lookout for candidates who are passionate about the field, even if they don’t have prior experience.

Other Routes

If you’re looking to become a PSO, there are plenty of paths you can take beyond just formal qualifications, apprenticeships, or starting in administrative roles. Here are some options to consider:

• Internal Progression – If you’re already part of an organisation, whether in operations, finance, or HR, you can move into project support roles by gaining relevant experience and showcasing your organisational and coordination skills.
• Professional Development Courses – Taking short courses or earning certifications in project management, business administration, or office management can equip you with the skills needed for a PSO role.
• Volunteer or Internship Opportunities – Getting hands-on project experience through volunteering or internships in project-focused settings can really help you build a solid foundation.
• Transferable Skills from Other Roles – Jobs in customer service, logistics, or team coordination often require skills like planning, communication, and organisation, all of which are directly applicable to a PSO position.
• Networking and Mentoring – Building connections with project teams or finding a mentor can offer valuable guidance, exposure, and potential opportunities to step into a PSO role.

Find out what skills you’ll use in this role

Skills and knowledge

You’ll need:

• Exceptional organisational and time management skills
• Keen eye for detail
• Skilled in using office software and digital tools
• Familiar with project management methodologies
• Competent in budgeting and financial tracking
• Experienced in managing risks and issues
• Strong data analysis and reporting abilities
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills
• Proficient in stakeholder management
• Capable of working effectively within a team
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities

Restrictions and Requirements

• Pass background checks or obtain security clearance.
• For entry-level positions, your decision-making authority might be limited.
• You may need to stick to organisational protocols or be present in the office, though flexible arrangements are often possible.
• Candidates should have basic educational qualifications (like GCSEs in English and Maths), relevant admin or project support experience, and be comfortable with office software.
• Having project management training or certifications can give you an edge.

Discover the day-to-day tasks you’ll do in this role.

Day-to-day tasks

A PSO is like the project manager’s trusty sidekick, taking care of the everyday tasks and administrative duties so the manager can zero in on the big-picture goals. What they do on a daily basis can change based on the project phase and the organisation, but usually, their responsibilities include:

• Crafting and sharing status reports
• Organising and managing project documents
• Keeping records and databases up to date
• Formatting and polishing documents
• Setting up and coordinating meetings
• Offering secretariat support
• Facilitating communication both internally and externally
• Responding to enquiries and handling correspondence
• Keeping an eye on project progress and milestones
• Managing the flow of information
• Making sure quality standards are upheld
• Maintaining project management tools and systems
• Tracking budgets and expenses
• Processing invoices
• Assisting with procurement tasks
• Tackling any ad-hoc administrative duties as they come up

Working environment

PSOs work in a variety of industries, generally inside a PMO, to assist project managers and teams with planning, reporting, coordination, and documentation in an office setting.

Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities.

A career as a PSO paves the way for a clear path forward, starting with the essential project support skills you’ll develop in your first year and leading to more advanced senior and specialised project management roles as you gain experience.

Early Career (First Year):

• Dive into the fundamentals of project support, tackling administrative tasks, documentation, scheduling, reporting, and lending a hand to the project manager.
• Hone your skills in project coordination, effective communication, and mastering project management tools.
• Get a taste of various project phases and how teams work together.

With Experience:

• Step up to roles like Senior Project Support Officer or Project Coordinator, where you’ll take on more complex tasks, keep an eye on risks, and monitor budgets.
• Transition into Project Manager positions, where you’ll oversee entire projects and lead teams to success.
• Consider specialising in areas such as PMO Management, Programme Management, or Portfolio Management.
• You might also find exciting opportunities in related fields like operations management, business analysis, or consultancy.

In England

PRINCE2® Foundation Qualification Provider: A PeopleCert (AXELOS) Certified Institute Start date: Anytime Location: London

PRINCE2® Practitioner Certification A PeopleCert (AXELOS) Certified Institute Start date: Anytime Location: London

PRINCE2® Foundation & Practitioner Certification Provider: A PeopleCert (AXELOS) Certified Institute Start date: Anytime Location: London