At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals facing employment barriers with tailored advice and training.
- Company: Join The Education People, a leader in educational support services.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, life assurance, and a pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives by enhancing their employment prospects.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and experience in supporting disadvantaged individuals preferred.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and development.
Location: Hybrid/Aylesford, Kent
Ready to make your application Please do read through the description at least once before clicking on Apply.
Salary/package: £27,642 per annum
Contract type: Permanent
Hours: Full-Time, 37 hours per week
Join The Education People (TEP) as an Employment Support Officer and make a real difference by supporting individuals who face barriers to employment. This is a rewarding opportunity to combine people-focused support with strong partnerships that help change lives for the better.
Who we are
The Education People (TEP), part of Commercial Services Group (CSG) excels in delivering essential services that significantly impact the lives of children. With a team of specialists in various educational fields, they take pride in offering expert-driven services including early years and childcare, equality and inclusion, school improvement and professional development, ensuring comprehensive support for educational institutions.
Why this role matters
The Employment Support Officer plays a vital role in helping disadvantaged individuals overcome barriers to work by providing tailored advice, training, and in-work support. The role is key in building strong relationships with employers and partners to create meaningful opportunities, while ensuring each person receives person-centred guidance. It is important as it directly improves people’s employment prospects, independence, and life chances
What you’ll be doing
Provide one-to-one advice and support to individuals who are seeking employment and/or other opportunities and signpost them to other services where appropriate.
Effectively assess individual needs, goals and milestones to ensure everyone accessing the service receives person-centred provision and develop action plans, monitoring individuals progress against those plans.
Manage a significant caseload, understanding the skills, abilities, needs and vocational aspirations through use of a Vocational Profile and use this information to identify a good job match by assessing the skills required.
Engage with prospective employers who will offer employment and other opportunities which match the skills, aspirations and needs of those using the service.
Ensure jobs are evaluated and risk assessed, keeping up to date with safeguarding practices and procedures.
Provide job coaching to assist individuals to perform their work responsibilities in such a way that fosters independence.
What we’re looking for
Excellent communication skills both verbal and written.
Proficient IT skills, particularly Microsoft Office packages.
Ideally some experience delivering support via the SEQF or IPS model.
Experience of working with individuals disadvantaged in the labour market in an enabling role is desirable but not essential.
An understanding of the barrier’s individuals with a disability or disadvantage face in trying to access employment and the impact of social exclusion.
Proven experience of managing a significant caseload whilst maintaining customer service standards.
What you’ll get in return
25 days annual leave.
Life assurance cover (4x salary).
Pension scheme with up to 8% employer contribution.
Additional benefits including retail and gym discounts, health cash plan and cycle to work scheme.
Volunteer days and access to a comprehensive well-being programme.
Tailored learning and development support with real opportunities to progress.
Why CSG?
Commercial Services Group (CSG) is the UK’s largest local authority-owned trading company (LATCO), generating over £800 million in revenue and supporting 16,000 education and public sector customers worldwide. With more than 1,800 employees across the UK, France, Dubai and Bangkok, we are working towards becoming the global leader in education and public sector solutions.
We are expanding rapidly, with annual growth of around 25 percent, supported by a blend of organic development, acquisitions and strategic partnerships. Our 33 trading businesses deliver a wide range of services including education management, IT, HR, legal, energy, procurement and supplies.
CSG is wholly owned by local authorities, and a significant proportion of our profits is reinvested into frontline public services. Over £77 million has already been returned, reflecting our commitment to combining commercial performance with meaningful social impact.
Inclusion & Accessibility
We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. xiskglj We encourage applications from suitably qualified people of all backgrounds.
We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our application and interview process; please let us know if you require any
Employment Support Officer employer: Commercial Services
Contact Detail:
Commercial Services Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Employment Support Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend local events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your interview skills! Mock interviews with friends or family can help you feel more confident. Focus on articulating how your experience aligns with the role of Employment Support Officer and the impact you can make.
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your approach! When reaching out to potential employers, highlight your understanding of the barriers individuals face in employment. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who truly gets the mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at The Education People.
We think you need these skills to ace Employment Support Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Employment Support Officer role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the job description, especially your communication skills and any experience working with disadvantaged individuals.
Showcase Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for helping others shine through in your application. Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you to support individuals facing barriers to employment. We love seeing genuine passion!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. This will help us understand your qualifications and how you can contribute to our mission at The Education People.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Commercial Services
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of an Employment Support Officer. Familiarise yourself with the Connect to Work Programme and the barriers individuals face in accessing employment. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As communication is key in this role, prepare examples that demonstrate your verbal and written skills. Think of situations where you've effectively communicated with clients or colleagues, especially in challenging circumstances. This will highlight your ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess how you'd handle specific situations, such as managing a caseload or providing tailored support. Practice your responses by thinking through real-life examples where you've successfully navigated similar challenges. This will help you articulate your thought process during the interview.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewer. Inquire about the team dynamics, the types of clients you'll be working with, or how success is measured in this role. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.