Skills Development Coach: Uniformed Public Services in Sunderland

To support the ongoing pastoral care, personal development and academic excellence of learners with the Public Services department at Sunderland College, we are seeking an enthusiastic Skills Development Coach, passionate about supporting students to develop the essential skills for progression to further education, higher education, training and the workplace. The post holder will be a key member of a collaborative team focused on providing an excellent learner experience. You will be committed to working closely with curriculum staff to support the development and wellbeing of students, helping them improve their learning skills and achieve their personal targets.

Role Responsibilities

• Deliver engaging Global Skills sessions tailored to Uniformed Public Services learners, supporting their personal development, wellbeing and employability.
• Coordinate meaningful work‑related activities and placements that reflect real‑world uniformed services environments and enhance career readiness.
• Promote the Changemaker ethos, empowering students to lead positive change through community engagement, social responsibility and teamwork.
• Provide tailored guidance and support with UCAS applications, including personal statements and course choices, to help students progress to higher education in uniformed or related services.
• Collaborate with teaching staff and external partners to create inclusive, impactful experiences that prepare learners for future employment or further study in the uniformed services.

Qualifications

• Academic qualification at Level 3 or above.
• Minimum level qualifications in both Maths and English.
• Experience of working with young people in group situations.
• Experience of supporting and addressing a range of learners' needs, including their wellbeing.
• Effective written and oral communication with staff and students, developing positive working partnerships.
• Ability to plan and prioritise effectively to meet deadlines and targets.
• Ability to lead and motivate others.
• Responsibility for PREVENT and safeguarding of children and/or vulnerable adults.
• Uphold British Values, the college values and responsibilities with regard to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Suitable to work with children, young people and adults.
• Experience of working within the post‑16 sector, within an educational setting.
• Experience of making effective use of learner progress tracking systems.
• Understanding of the issues and barriers that relate to both learner wellbeing and ineffective learning.
• Experience, knowledge or understanding of Uniformed Public Services, or a related public services sector.

What’s in it for you?

• Enjoy a generous holiday allowance ranging between 35‑48 days per year, plus public holidays (excluding Term Time Only contracts).
• Generous family leave and flexible working options (dependent on role).
• LGPS or Teacher Pensions Scheme – depending on role.
• Access to myLifestyle benefits platform providing retail discounts and more.
• We offer dental, eye care & health cash plans.
• Extensive wellbeing support through a digital Wellbeing Hub that offers a broad range of support for physical, mental and financial wellbeing.
• Free parking on most campuses.

Incentives for Eligible Teachers

If you are moving into further education teaching, you may be eligible for the Taking Teaching Further (TTF) programme, a funded route to help industry professionals retrain as FE teachers. In addition, for roles in high‑need subjects or regions you may also benefit from the government’s Targeted Retention Incentive (formerly “levelling‑up premium”) payments, worth up to £6,000 for eligible teachers in their first five years and teaching certain shortage subjects. Please note eligibility for both TTF and the Targeted Retention Incentive varies by role, subject area and provider; they do not apply to every vacancy.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion

At Education Partnership North East (EPNE), we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences. We recognise that diverse perspectives strengthen our teams to enhance the education and support we provide to our learners and communities. We are a Disability Confident Employer and Armed Forces Covenant Member, and with Ofsted Outstanding status across all campuses, we are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive and high‑performing environment where everyone can thrive. Due to the nature of this post, you will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure Check. We believe in equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to PREVENT and safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.