M.Ed. (Education Management) / The subject of this investigation is the management function of the provincial administration clerk in the school. The investigation is limited to schools within the ambit of the Transvaal Education Department and has been aimed, primarily, at determining the responsibilities and position of the administration clerk in the effective functioning of the school. As the administration office forms the nerve-centre of the school's activities and due to its staff consistence of administration clerks, a clear indication of their duties and responsibilities is an essential management function of the school principal. The investigation in regard to the functions of the senior provincial administration clerk demonstrated that the school principal as the management leader, must possess a thorough knowledge of administrative matters. This is essential as he, being the in-service trainer, has to suitably equip the senior provincial administration clerk with the required knowledge and skills in order that she, in tum, can easily perform as management leader of the school's administrative section. In order to keep pace with change and modernisation, the school principal and administration clerks must be prepared to attend in-service training courses. Moreover, they must gain knowledge on their own accord through the reading of circular letters, catalogues, manuals and also keep abreast of technological development such as the modern micro computer, word processor as well as facsimile and duplicating machines. The services of a good administration clerk are indispensable to the school principal as well as the educator. Qualities which the administration clerk must possess include reliability, loyalty, responsibility, willingness to help, tact, courtesy, charm, enterprise and patience. AIthough the educator cannot be relieved of all administrative responsibilities, the school principal must nevertheless reflect seriously about administrative responsibilities that should not really be undertaken by the educator. By entrusting responsibilities such as the processing of marks, compiling of class lists, raising of funds, transport arrangements, controlling of stock, duplicating work...