Education - specialised knowledge

In further and higher education, different subjects require varying degrees of spreadsheet competence. However, there are some specialist courses – economics, finance, engineering, physical sciences and more – that require more specific capabilities. In this ‘role’, both educators and students would be expected to use spreadsheets to support data capture and analysis, often involving sophisticated computations, models and presentation of information.

Relevant competencies

A significant number of the competencies in the framework have the potential to apply in the specialist education space. Being able to use spreadsheets to effectively ingest, store and manipulate data, following scientific principles and standards of modelling are core competencies, alongside producing structured spreadsheets, using formulas to potentially advanced levels, tracing and managing errors (particularly as part of a typical ‘peer review’ process in academia) and using effective data presentation techniques.

When working with large volumes of information across multiple spreadsheets, competencies that enable efficient working, robust spreadsheet management and clear communication will be beneficial. Knowledge of advanced analytical tools, such as Python, may also be helpful, though not essential. 

The competency framework

The framework is colour coded to illustrate the relevance of each competency.

• Core competencies form the essential Excel knowledge required for this job role.
• Beneficial competencies are additional skills individuals may choose to develop to strengthen their capability.
• Less relevant competencies remain useful Excel skills but are not as directly applicable to the role and therefore may be given lower priority.

Below is an interactive summary of the core competencies, as well as those beneficial to develop further capabilities, for this job role. Click through each section, in the left-hand column, to explore the framework.