At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Futures Programme, guiding students towards top universities and career opportunities.
- Company: Join Oxford High School, part of the prestigious GDST network.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, professional development, and generous discounts for children at GDST schools.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive community dedicated to student success.
- Why this job: Empower young women to shape their futures with confidence and ambition.
- Qualifications: Experience in education and a passion for guiding ambitious students.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Employer: Oxford High School - GDST
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time, Term Time
Salary: GDST Competitive Salary Range
Posted: 22nd May 2026
Start Date: 1st January 2027
Expires: 10th June 2026 11:59 PM
The Role:
Are you an inspirational leader ready to empower students to stride out into the world with confidence and agency? We are seeking a dynamic Head of Futures to lead our innovative Futures Programme. This is a pivotal leadership role for someone who believes that "what’s next" should be as exciting as the here and now. You will be the architect of our students' journeys, from their first spark of career curiosity in Year 7 to securing places at the world’s most prestigious universities.
Key Responsibilities:
- Aspirational University Admissions (Oxbridge & Elite Global)
- Expert Guidance: Provide high-level, bespoke support for UCAS, Oxbridge, and competitive pathways like Medicine and Law.
- International Horizons: Lead our global application strategy, including Ivy League (Common App) and other world-class international institutions.
- The Competitive Edge: Coordinate an intensive preparation calendar including admissions tests, interview practice, and "super-curricular" enrichment.
- Careers Leadership Across the School (Years 7–13)
- Whole-School Strategy: Design and deliver an engaging, age-appropriate careers curriculum that builds skills in leadership, innovation, and self-awareness from Year 7 onwards.
- Enterprise & Employability: Foster an "enterprising mindset," overseeing work experience, internships, and networking events like our flagship Futures Fair.
- Real-World Connections: Maintain a vibrant network of alumnae and industry partners to provide students with "meaningful encounters" with the world of work.
- Strategic Leadership & Pastoral Care
- Sixth Form Integration: Work at the heart of the Sixth Form Team, collaborating with Tutors and Heads of Year to "stretch and support" every student’s individual voice.
- Data & Insight: Analyse destination data to identify trends and ensure our outcomes continue to reflect the highest academic ambitions.
- Parental Partnership: Act as the authoritative voice for post-18 options, delivering clear, timely, and inspiring communication to our parent community.
About You:
You are a forward-thinking professional, who is used to working with academically ambitious young people, thrives on building relationships and guiding young women with strategic clarity, warmth and credibility through life-changing decisions. Most importantly, you are "proud to do things a little differently" to ensure our students leave school not just prepared for the future, but empowered to create their own.
Benefits:
As part of the GDST, the UK's leading network of independent girls' schools, we can offer a variety of benefits, such as:
- Competitive salaries and pay progression
- Access to extensive professional development opportunities
- Training grants for qualifications
- Generous pension schemes
- Free life assurance benefit
- A discount of up to 50% on fees for children at GDST schools
- Interest free loans for training, computer purchase loans and travel season ticket loans
- A Cycle to Work scheme
- Competitive terms and conditions of employment
Safeguarding Statement:
The Girls’ Day School Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection checks appropriate to the post, including online searches and checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Head of Futures: Higher Education, Employability & OxBridge employer: GDST
Oxford High School, part of the prestigious Girls' Day School Trust, is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its staff while fostering a vibrant and inclusive work culture. With competitive salaries, extensive professional development opportunities, and a commitment to empowering students, this role offers a unique chance to shape the futures of young women in a supportive environment located in the historic city of Oxford. Join us in making a meaningful impact as we inspire the next generation to reach their highest ambitions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Futures: Higher Education, Employability & OxBridge
✨Dive into Digital Learning Communities
Join online forums and communities focused on digital education, like EdTech Meetups or LinkedIn groups. Engage actively—share ideas and insights, and you'll not only learn a ton but also connect with potential employers and thought leaders in the industry.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Skills
Create content that demonstrates your understanding of digital learning—think blogs, videos, or even free online workshops. This could catch the eye of companies like GDST looking for innovative thinkers. Plus, it’s a great way to practice your presentation skills!
✨Utilise University Career Services
If you're still in education or have access to an alumni network, make the most of your university's career services. They often have exclusive job listings and workshops tailored to students wanting to break into full-time roles in education technology.
✨Apply Directly Via Company Websites
When you come across roles like Head of Futures: Higher Education, Employability & OxBridge at GDST, make sure to apply directly through their website. It not only shows you're serious but sometimes you'll find positions listed there that may not be on job boards yet. Keep an eye on those!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Futures: Higher Education, Employability & OxBridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Learning:When applying for a role in digital learning and education at GDST, make sure to sprinkle your application with examples of your enthusiasm for teaching and learning technologies. Share specific experiences where you've used, designed, or implemented digital learning solutions, as this shows us that you truly get the field.
Highlight Relevant Education and Certification:In the digital learning space, having a strong educational background can set you apart. Don't shy away from showcasing your degrees, certifications, or relevant courses related to e-learning, instructional design, or educational technology. We love seeing candidates who have actively invested in their learning journey!
Tailor Your CV to the Role:Your CV is your first impression, so let's make it count! Focus on your skills directly related to digital learning, such as course development, learning management systems, and data analysis. Be sure to show measurable results from your past roles to demonstrate your impact and effectiveness.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your qualifications, but your vision for the future of digital education. Discuss how your experiences align with the mission of GDST and highlight any innovative ideas you might have for enhancing learning experiences. This is your chance to connect with us on a deeper level!
How to prepare for a job interview at GDST
✨Get Hands-On with Learning Technologies
Familiarise yourself with common digital learning tools and platforms, like LMS systems or authoring tools that GDST might use. Understanding these will give you an edge and show you’re ready to jump in from day one!
✨Showcase Your Creativity in Lesson Design
Prepare a portfolio of your past projects if you have them, or create sample lesson plans or digital content demos. Being able to discuss your creative approach to engaging students can really set you apart in a full-time role at GDST.
✨Brush Up on Educational Trends
Stay in the loop with the latest trends in digital education, like gamification or personalised learning experiences. This will help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview and demonstrate your passion for the field.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Expect to be asked about your experience working collaboratively with educators or other stakeholders. Consider discussing how you've contributed to a team effort in creating engaging educational content or improving student outcomes.
