International Student Accommodation and Welfare Officer
Department: International
Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time
Location: Itchen Sixth Form College
Reporting To: Lynne Jones
Compensation: £26,818 - £28,343 / year
Contract: Full time, permanent
Closing date: Friday 24th July 2026
Interview date: Wednesday 29th July 2026
Start date: 1st September 2026
Description
Itchen Sixth Form College is seeking a dedicated and organised individual to coordinate homestay accommodation for our international students. This role is essential in providing a warm and welcoming home environment for our students, ensuring their comfort and well-being during their time at the college. The successful candidate will recruit and screen potential host families, match students with suitable hosts, and provide comprehensive training and guidance to host families. They will maintain regular communication with both host families and students, addressing any concerns or issues that may arise. Additionally, the Homestay Coordinator will keep accurate records of student placements, host family information, and relevant documentation, and prepare reports and statistics as required. The ideal candidate will possess excellent organisational and time‑management skills, strong attention to detail, and excellent written and verbal communication skills. They should build strong relationships with students and host families, and demonstrate problem‑solving, negotiation and decision‑making skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and a background in administration are essential; experience in a similar role or working with international students is desirable. Use of own car is essential.
Key Responsibilities
Student Welfare and Support
- Act as the first point of contact for international students regarding accommodation, welfare, and pastoral support.
- Provide advice, guidance, and signposting to appropriate college services and external agencies where required.
Homestay Accommodation Management
- Coordinate the allocation of homestay accommodation for international students, ensuring placements meet individual needs and college requirements.
- Recruit, assess, and onboard new host families in line with college procedures.
- Conduct home visits, accommodation inspections, and compliance checks to ensure host families meet required standards.
Communication and Relationship Management
- Develop and maintain positive relationships with students, parents, agents, and host families.
- Act as a key liaison between students, host families, and college staff to ensure effective communication and prompt resolution of issues.
Administration and Compliance
- Maintain accurate and confidential student and accommodation records in accordance with data protection requirements.
General Duties
- Support student enrolment, induction, and orientation activities.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Good general education, including GCSE (or equivalent) English and Mathematics at Grade C/4 or above.
- Demonstrable experience in an administrative role.
- Demonstrable familiarity with social media.
- Demonstrated interest in international relations.
- Evidence of delivering to deadlines.
- Experience, or demonstrated potential, in maintaining long‑term business relationships.
Workplace Benefits
- Values-driven culture – we’re really proud of our culture and are looking for someone who shares our values.
- Learning and Development – access to support and resources to drive your own development.
- Free parking – free on‑site parking, as well as good public transport links.
- Eyecare Scheme
- Cycle2Work Scheme
- Free On‑site Gym & Sports Facilities
- Free Flu Jabs
- Free Hot Drinks for Staff
- Canteen – freshly prepared food with plenty of choice.
- 1 Life Event Day – to recognise life’s big moments such as a wedding, graduation, moving house.
- Staff Discount Schemes – discounts and deals on national attractions, entertainment, days out, theme parks, holiday insurance and many national retailers.
- Employee Loyalty Celebration Reward Scheme – cash and rewards to acknowledge and celebrate staff commitment and loyalty to the college.
- On‑Site College Nursery with priority given to college staff.
- Access to College Library.
- Free College Wi‑Fi.
- Compassionate Leave – up to 5 days paid time off to attend to matters relating to the death or serious illness of a loved one.
- Counselling Service – access to qualified therapy‑based support.
- Pension Scheme – enrolment to the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) (eligibility criteria applies).
- Occupational Sick Pay
- Enhanced Family Leave
International Student Accommodation and Welfare Officer in Southampton employer: Itchen Sixth Form College
Itchen Sixth Form College is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and values-driven workplace culture that prioritises the well-being of both staff and students. With a focus on professional development, employees benefit from learning opportunities and access to facilities like a free gym, making it an ideal environment for those looking to grow in their careers while making a meaningful impact in the lives of international students.
