At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct health and safety audits across global schools and provide actionable feedback.
- Company: Cognita, a leader in independent education with a global presence.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid work, self-employed consultancy, and the chance to impact student safety.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to integrity and high standards in a dynamic global setting.
- Why this job: Make a difference in education by ensuring safe environments for students worldwide.
- Qualifications: Chartered Health & Safety professional with consultancy experience and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 60000 £ per year.
About Cognita
Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we operate a community of 90 schools in 21 countries across Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East, serving more than 100,000 students. Each school is uniquely tailored, yet our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
About the Role
The Independent Health & Safety Reviewer will conduct audits of health and safety practices across Cognita sites. The role is self‑employed, consultant‑based, and hybrid with in‑person school visits and remote responsibilities. Work commences in September 2026.
Responsibilities
- Prepare for each audit by reviewing relevant documentation and understanding the school's context, policies, and legislative requirements.
- Assess practice against the agreed framework, identify effective health & safety practices, and promote continuous improvement.
- Provide verbal feedback following on‑site reviews and produce concise, evidence‑based reports with clear, actionable recommendations.
- Ensure timely circulation of reports to key stakeholders, including Heads of School and Regional Teams.
- Identify and promptly report risks or concerns, supported by clear written evidence.
- Maintain strong professional relationships built on integrity and transparency, conducting all reviews openly, professionally, and to a consistently high standard.
Qualifications and Experience
We seek a highly professional and experienced Health & Safety consultant who is a Chartered Member of IOSH (or equivalent) and has at least two years of consultancy experience, ideally across multiple projects or part‑time engagements. The successful candidate must be an excellent communicator, possess strong report‑writing skills, and be capable of producing clear, formal, and high‑quality documentation. Experience within the education sector and an understanding of facilities‑based compliance are essential. The ability to recognise and adapt to differing cultural approaches to compliance in a global environment is required. Knowledge of international health & safety legislation and proficiency in Spanish, while not essential, would be advantageous.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.
Independent Health & Safety Reviewer employer: Cognita Limited
Cognita is an exceptional employer that champions a culture of integrity, transparency, and continuous improvement, making it an ideal workplace for professionals in the health and safety sector. With a commitment to diversity and employee growth, Cognita offers unique opportunities for independent consultants to engage with a global community of schools, ensuring meaningful contributions to the safety and well-being of students and staff alike. The hybrid nature of the role allows for flexibility while fostering strong professional relationships across various educational environments.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Health & Safety Reviewer
✨Get Your Portfolio Ready
When it comes to compliance and risk, a solid portfolio is crucial. Showcase your past work, particularly any interesting case studies or projects that relate to regulations or risk management. This not only demonstrates your expertise but also helps you stand out to potential clients.
✨Join Compliance Networks
In the compliance-risk world, connecting with industry professionals can be a game-changer. Join associations like the Association of Certified Compliance Professionals or attend events focused on regulatory changes. These are great places to meet potential clients and learn about freelance opportunities.
✨Utilise Online Freelance Platforms
Platforms like Upwork or Freelancer can be goldmines for freelance compliance work. Keep an eye out for jobs that require specific compliance skills, and don’t hesitate to pitch your expertise. Make your profile shine with relevant certifications and experiences.
✨Tap Into Our Community
Check out our opportunities on the StudySmarter site! We often post freelance roles that could be right up your alley. Don’t miss out on applying directly through us, as we want to support you in landing your dream freelance compliance gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Health & Safety Reviewer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Compliance Expertise:In the compliance-risk field, it's crucial to highlight your knowledge of regulations and risk management frameworks. Make sure your CV showcases relevant certifications like CISA or CISM, and any experience with compliance audits. This will demonstrate your capability to navigate the complexities of compliance effectively.
Build a Strong Portfolio:As a freelancer, your portfolio is your best friend! Include case studies of past compliance projects, detailing the challenges faced and the solutions you implemented. Potential clients at Cognita Limited will love seeing the tangible impact of your work and your analytical skills in action.
Tailor Your Application:When applying to Cognita Limited, deep dive into their specific compliance needs. Research their industry and mention how your unique skill set can address their challenges. A personalised touch can go a long way in freelance applications, showing you’re not just sending out a generic CV.
Discuss Your Availability and Rates:In your application, it's essential to be upfront about your availability and rates. Freelance work often involves negotiating terms, so outlining what you can offer and your expected compensation will save time and set clear expectations from the start.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cognita Limited
✨Showcase Your Compliance Knowledge
In the freelance compliance-risk world, it's crucial to highlight your understanding of regulations and frameworks relevant to the industry. During your chat with Cognita Limited, be ready to discuss specific laws that impact their operations and show how your previous projects tackle compliance challenges.
✨Prepare Your Portfolio of Solutions
As a freelancer, your portfolio is your golden ticket! Have examples ready that demonstrate your ability to identify and mitigate risks, complete with case studies from past gigs. This will help you illustrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills effectively to Cognita Limited.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect the interviewers at Cognita Limited to throw some scenario-based questions your way. They might ask how you'd approach a particular risk situation or compliance issue. Think through some real-life examples or hypothetical situations beforehand to display your analytical skills and risk-assessment strategies.
✨Discuss Your Flexibility and Approach to Projects
As a freelancer, it’s key to convey how you adapt to different clients and workflows. Talk to Cognita Limited about your past experiences working independently and how you structure your projects, demonstrating your professionalism and ability to meet deadlines without micromanagement.
