At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students' wellbeing and help create a positive learning environment.
- Company: Join Co-op Academy Florence MacWilliams, a growing school with big ambitions.
- Benefits: Enjoy professional development, shorter terms, and a supportive community.
- Other info: Be part of a vibrant community dedicated to excellence and student success.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and shape the future of education.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs including Maths and English (grade 4-9) or equivalent.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Thank you for your interest in the role of Pastoral Support Officer at Co-op Academy Florence MacWilliams. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of a growing Free School in Stoke-on-Trent, an academy with bold ambitions, a clear moral purpose, and a relentless commitment to excellence for every child.
Since opening in September 2024, Co-op Academy Florence MacWilliams has moved rapidly from vision to reality. What began with a founding cohort of 120 Year 7 students has grown into a thriving, purposeful learning community. In September 2025, the academy proudly transitioned into its permanent, state‑of‑the‑art building, a learning environment designed to inspire, challenge, and support pride, ambition, care and excellence. The academy will continue to grow year on year, expanding to full capacity of 1,150 students by 2030.
Why Choose Co-op Academy Florence MacWilliams
- An uncompromising commitment to professional growth: At Co-op Academy Florence MacWilliams, we believe that exceptional schools are built by exceptional professionals. We invest heavily in our people, offering double the standard number of training days and a rich programme of development designed to stretch, challenge, and accelerate your leadership journey.
- Strength through collective excellence: As part of Co-op Academies Trust, you will join a powerful network of professionals united by shared values and high expectations.
- Support and challenge: Our organisational structures are intentionally designed to remove unnecessary barriers and allow teachers to focus on what truly matters, teaching, learning, and outcomes. You will be supported, trusted, and empowered to teach with clarity and confidence.
- A curriculum built for depth, rigor, and aspiration: Our curriculum is developed in partnership with Trust‑wide subject directors to ensure ambition, coherence, and academic depth. It is designed to open doors, cultivate curiosity, and prepare students for success in education and beyond.
- A culture where people matter: We are proud of our strong culture, one rooted in high expectations, shared ways of being, and our PACE values. We care deeply about our staff and students, and we are intentional about creating a community where people feel known, valued, and inspired to be their best.
- Extended Learning That Transforms Lives: Our extended academy day provides students with enriched opportunities beyond the classroom, building cultural capital, resilience, and confidence. Through a carefully designed enrichment programme, students discover new passions and develop skills that will shape their futures. This innovative model also enables an additional two weeks of holiday across the academic year, ensuring shorter, more restorative term times for both staff and students.
If you are an ambitious educator with the vision, expertise, and moral purpose to lead with impact, we would be delighted to hear from you. Join us at Co-op Academy Florence MacWilliams and be part of something extraordinary, an academy that is not just growing, but redefining what is possible for young people in Stoke-on-Trent.
If you have what we are looking for, we would love for you to take the initiative and apply to be part of a team that is not just building a school but shaping the future of education in Stoke-on-Trent.
Qualifications
- 5 GCSEs including Maths and English (grade 4-9) or equivalent essential.
Co-op Academies Trust as an aware employer is committed to safeguarding and protecting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults as its number one priority. This commitment to robust recruitment, selection and induction procedures extends to organisations and services linked to the Trust on its behalf. Co-op Academies Trust is committed to the safeguarding and welfare of children and young people and expects all its employees and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced check by the DBS and satisfactory references. All our colleagues are expected to demonstrate a commitment to co‑operative values and principles.
Pastoral Support Officer employer: Job Search Place Limited
Co-op Academy Florence MacWilliams is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering professional growth and creating a supportive community for its staff. With a commitment to high expectations and shared values, the academy offers extensive training opportunities, a collaborative work culture, and a curriculum designed to inspire both educators and students. Located in Stoke-on-Trent, this growing Free School not only prioritises the well-being of its employees but also provides a unique chance to shape the future of education in a state-of-the-art learning environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pastoral Support Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the academy's values and mission. When you walk into that interview, show us how your personal ethos aligns with Co-op Academy Florence MacWilliams' commitment to excellence and community. It’s all about making that connection!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare some thoughtful questions for your interviewers. This shows us that you're genuinely interested in the role and the academy. Ask about their vision for the future or how they support staff development – it’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, but keep it natural. We want to see your personality shine through! Use examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your skills and how you can contribute to our thriving community.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing us your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in our minds as we make our decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Pastoral Support Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see how much you care about supporting students and shaping their futures. Share personal experiences or insights that highlight your commitment to education.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and goals of Co-op Academy Florence MacWilliams. We’re looking for candidates who align with our mission, so mention specific aspects of our academy that resonate with you and how you can contribute.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and focus on what makes you a great fit for the Pastoral Support Officer role. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences without overcomplicating things.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our academy there, making it easier for you to tailor your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know the Academy's Values
Before your interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with Co-op Academy Florence MacWilliams' PACE values. Understanding these principles will help you align your answers with the academy's mission and demonstrate that you're a good fit for their culture.
✨Showcase Your Pastoral Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience in pastoral support or similar roles. Prepare specific examples of how you've positively impacted students' lives, showcasing your ability to nurture and support their development.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions to ask about the academy's growth plans, professional development opportunities, and how they support staff wellbeing. This shows your genuine interest in being part of their community.
✨Demonstrate Commitment to Safeguarding
Given the importance of safeguarding in this role, be prepared to discuss your understanding of child protection policies and your commitment to creating a safe environment for students. Highlight any relevant training or experiences you've had in this area.
