At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and improve education services for lifelong learning in Knowsley.
- Company: Knowsley Council, dedicated to shaping the future of education.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, supportive environment, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Join us to drive inclusion and create opportunities for young people and adults.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and experience in education management required.
The predicted salary is between 37800 - 46200 £ per year.
Shape the Future of Education in Knowsley. Lead Improvement. Drive Inclusion. Create Opportunity.
Education is at the heart of Knowsley’s vision for children, young people, families and communities. We are investing in our Education Service and are looking for passionate, ambitious leaders to join us in shaping the future of education across the borough.
This is a unique opportunity to lead services that support lifelong learning and progression. Responsible for Family, Adult and Community Education, the Knowsley Advice and Guidance Service and the promotion of post-16 opportunities, you will work with partners to help young people and adults access education, employment and training. You will play a central role in delivering the Learning and Skills Strategy, developing opportunities for local residents and ensuring services respond effectively to community needs.
About You
- We are looking for motivated and experienced professionals who are passionate about improving outcomes for children, young people and communities.
- Have strong leadership, management and relationship-building skills.
- Can work effectively with schools, education providers and a wide range of partners.
- Have experience of managing change, driving improvement and delivering results.
- Understand the opportunities and challenges facing education, inclusion and learning services.
- Can influence, inspire and bring people together around a shared vision.
- Are committed to innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement.
Why Knowsley?
Knowsley is a borough with ambition. We are committed to ensuring every child, young person and resident has access to high-quality education and learning opportunities that enable them to achieve their potential. Our Education Service works closely with schools, colleges, post 16 providers, families, communities and partners to make a lasting difference.
In return, you will join a supportive and forward-thinking organisation that values integrity, accountability, communication and respect, where your contribution will help shape services that impact lives every day.
Join Us
If you are looking for an opportunity to make a meaningful difference and be part of a service with a clear vision for education, inclusion and lifelong learning, we would love to hear from you. Be part of Knowsley's journey to deliver excellence in education and opportunity for all.
For full details of the role, please visit: www.knowsley.gov.uk/senior-officer-recruitment
At Knowsley Council we will consider requests for flexible working. For most roles, the following types of flexibility are usually possible: flexible hours, working from home, compressed hours, part-time. There is a requirement for you to attend your work base at least 3 days per week.
We welcome applications from residents and beyond, regardless of background, belief, or identity, recognising the value that diversity brings to our organisation. We particularly welcome applications from individuals from Black and Minority Ethnic backgrounds and candidates with disabilities as we acknowledge their underrepresentation in our workforce.
Please note sponsorship is not available for this role.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the specified date should we receive sufficient applicants. At Knowsley we value our applicants and want them to feel well-informed and welcomed.
If you have any questions about this specific job role or what it is like to work at Knowsley, please contact: Karen Austin Smith at Karen.Austin-Smith@knowsley.gov.uk or Tel: 0151 443 2256
Interviews are to be held on 17 December 2026.
If you are interested in this vacancy, please upload your CV along with a supporting statement as one document in PDF or Word format. Your CV and supporting statement should be tailored to reflect the competencies within the person specification. Please note if a CV and supporting statement does not reflect the person specification it is unlikely to be shortlisted.
How to apply
To upload your CV you will need to click on the link below and create an account with Jobs Go Public if you have not already done so. You will also be required to input your name and email address and will be invited to complete an equal opportunities questionnaire.
Service Manager Post 16 and Adult Learning employer: Knowsley Council
Knowsley Council is an award-winning Local Authority that prioritises fair employment and inclusivity, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful work in community service. With a commitment to employee well-being, flexible working options, and a focus on professional growth, we foster a supportive environment where your contributions directly enhance the lives of residents. Join us in our mission to create cleaner, safer, and greener neighbourhoods while being part of a diverse team dedicated to excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Manager Post 16 and Adult Learning
✨Connect with Local Educational Institutions
Get involved with universities and colleges in your area, especially those that offer adult continuing education programmes. Attend open days or even guest lectures to network with faculty members and find out about potential job openings before they even get advertised.
✨Leverage Professional Education Networks
Join professional networks focused on adult education, such as the Adult Learning Australia or the International Society for Technology in Education. These communities often have job boards or can point you towards opportunities at places like Knowsley Council just waiting for the right candidate!
✨Showcase Your Passion for Lifelong Learning
In your interviews, share your own experiences and thoughts on lifelong learning. Highlight any courses or workshops you've taken recently to demonstrate your commitment to personal development and the importance of education. This is a big plus for roles in this field!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don't forget to check out our careers page at Knowsley Council. Applying directly through our website not only makes your application stand out but also shows you're genuinely interested in joining us. We love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Service Manager Post 16 and Adult Learning
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Experience in Education:When crafting your CV for the Service Manager Post 16 and Adult Learning role, make sure to emphasise any relevant experience in adult or continuing education. This could be teaching credentials, training sessions you've facilitated, or programmes you’ve developed. The more specific you can be about your contributions and outcomes, the better!
Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills:In the adult continuing education sector, strong communication and interpersonal skills are key. Use your cover letter to share specific examples of how you’ve worked with diverse groups or handled different learning styles. Let us see how you've engaged learners—you’re selling your teaching style here!
Connect Your Passion to Our Mission:At Knowsley Council, we value candidates who resonate with our mission to empower lifelong learners. Make sure your cover letter reflects your passion for adult education and your alignment with our goals. A genuine connection can really make your application stand out!
Keep it Professional Yet Personable:While it’s important to maintain professionalism in your application, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. We’re looking for someone who can connect with our learners, so a friendly, approachable tone can help convey that vibe in your written materials. Apply through our website and let us see the real you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Knowsley Council
✨Showcase Your Passion for Lifelong Learning
When interviewing for a role in adult continuing education at Knowsley Council, it's super important to highlight your passion for lifelong learning. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to education and how you've fostered a love for learning in others – this is something hiring managers love to see!
✨Prepare for Adult Education Methodologies
Be ready to dive into your knowledge of andragogy and educational theories during the interview. Expect questions about how you would adapt your teaching styles for adult learners – think about specific strategies you’ve used in the past and be prepared to discuss how they positively impacted your students.
✨Discuss Your Experience with Diverse Learners
At Knowsley Council, you’ll likely encounter a diverse range of adult learners, so don’t shy away from discussing your experience with different demographics. Be prepared to share your successes in engaging learners from varied backgrounds, and how your approach has adapted to meet their unique needs.
✨Demonstrate Your Ability to Collaborate
Given that this is a full-time role, teamwork will be essential. Be ready to talk about your experiences working in collaborative settings, whether it be with fellow educators, administrators, or community partners. Highlight specific projects where your collaborative efforts contributed to successful educational outcomes.
