At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage non-academic student support services at LAAT.
- Company: Join the London Academy for Applied Technology, a forward-thinking institution.
- Benefits: Enjoy professional development, career progression, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on wellbeing and student success.
- Why this job: Shape student services and make a real impact on learners' journeys.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and 3-5 years in student services or related roles.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
At London Academy for Applied Technology (LAAT), our mission is to equip learners with practical skills and industry-focused knowledge that bridge the gap between education and employment. We are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders and innovators by delivering high-quality, flexible, and relevant learning experiences.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Reporting to the Registrar/Dean, the Head of Student Support will provide strategic and operational leadership across the full range of non-academic student services at LAAT. This is a senior, wide-ranging role encompassing student admissions and enrolment, administration and records, IT and digital access, learning support, wellbeing, student finance, careers and employability, and outreach and partnerships. The post holder will be the institution's expert on Student Loan Company (SLC) processes and student finance, while simultaneously overseeing the entire student journey from first enquiry through to graduation and progression. This is a unique opportunity to build and lead a truly integrated Student Support function at a forward-thinking applied technology college.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
- Lead and manage all non-academic student support services within a cohesive, student-centred function.
- Oversee the full student lifecycle from enquiry, admissions, and enrolment through to completion and progression.
- Set clear service standards, escalation pathways, and quality benchmarks across all student-facing teams.
Student Finance & SLC
- Act as the institution's expert on Student Loan Company (SLC) processes, policies, and funding eligibility.
- Provide expert guidance to students on SLC applications, documentation, and resolving payment issues.
- Serve as the primary liaison between LAAT and the SLC, managing outstanding cases and monitoring funding status.
- Deliver workshops and guidance sessions on student finance and ensure compliance with data protection requirements.
Admissions, Enrolment & Administration
- Oversee admissions, enrolment, and registration processes in line with partner university and institutional policies.
- Ensure accurate student data capture, records management, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Oversee wellbeing, welfare, and pastoral care systems, acting as a point of escalation for student welfare concerns.
- Coordinate inclusive learning support, reasonable adjustments, and access to Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA).
- Ensure students have reliable access to digital systems including the VLE, email, and assessment platforms.
Careers, Employability & Outreach
- Establish and lead a Careers and Employability service, including workshops, employer events, and career planning.
- Drive outreach and partnership activities to support widening participation and institutional growth.
Compliance & Governance
- Ensure student services operate in line with Office for Students (OfS) conditions of registration.
- Support complaints, appeals, and conduct procedures, and contribute to institutional monitoring and reporting.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree with 3–5 years' experience in student services or a related role within HE or FE offering HE courses.
- Demonstrable experience managing student-facing services or operational teams.
- Sound knowledge of Student Loan Company processes, student finance applications, and funding eligibility.
- Understanding of the student lifecycle, inclusive education practices, and data protection requirements.
- Excellent organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to handle sensitive and complex student cases professionally and with empathy.
- Experience in a private higher education provider or franchised partnership environment.
- Familiarity with Office for Students (OfS) regulatory expectations.
- Experience supporting outreach, employer engagement, or widening participation activities.
WHY JOIN LAAT?
- A genuinely strategic and varied leadership role with real scope to shape student services.
- A collaborative, ambitious, and growing institution committed to applied learning and student success.
- Supportive senior leadership team and a culture that values both professionalism and wellbeing.
- Opportunities for continued professional development and career progression.
Head of Student Support in London employer: Laatedu
At the London Academy for Applied Technology, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions student success and professional growth. Our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and inclusivity, while our commitment to employee development ensures that you will have ample opportunities to advance your career in a supportive environment. Join us in shaping the future of education in a vibrant London setting, where your contributions will make a meaningful impact on the lives of our students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Student Support in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at LAAT on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the culture and what they really value in candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into LAAT's mission and values. We want to show that we’re not just a good fit for the role, but also for the team and the institution’s goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions, especially around student support and finance. We should be ready to share our experiences and how they align with the responsibilities of the Head of Student Support.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can keep us fresh in their minds and show our enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a nice touch!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Student Support in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of Student Support role. Highlight your experience in student services and how it aligns with LAAT's mission to bridge education and employment.
Showcase Your Expertise:Since this role requires knowledge of Student Loan Company processes, be sure to mention any relevant experience you have. We want to see how you can bring your expertise to enhance our student support services.
Be Personable:In your application, let your personality shine through! We’re looking for someone who can connect with students and staff alike, so don’t hesitate to share your approach to building relationships and supporting student wellbeing.
Apply Through Our Website:For a smooth application process, make sure to apply directly through our website. This helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Laatedu
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Student Loan Company processes and student finance applications. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're the expert they need for this role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or managed student services in the past. Highlight your ability to set clear service standards and how you've improved student experiences in previous roles.
✨Understand the Student Lifecycle
Familiarise yourself with the full student journey from enquiry to graduation. Be ready to discuss how you would enhance each stage of this process at LAAT, demonstrating your strategic thinking and operational leadership.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about handling sensitive student cases or managing welfare concerns. Think of specific situations where you've shown empathy and professionalism, as this role requires a strong focus on student wellbeing.
