At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead an innovative Futures Programme, guiding students towards elite university admissions.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking educational institution dedicated to empowering young women.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and discounts for children at GDST schools.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and meaningful connections.
- Why this job: Shape the future of ambitious students and make a real impact on their journeys.
- Qualifications: Experience in academic guidance and a passion for empowering young people.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
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
- Competitive salaries and pay progression
- Access to extensive professional development opportunities
- Training grants for qualifications
- 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
The GDST is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including online checks and checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Head of Futures: Shape Elite University Pathways in Oxford employer: Oxford High School GDST
As a leading educational institution, we pride ourselves on fostering an inspiring and supportive work culture that empowers our staff to make a meaningful impact on students' futures. With competitive salaries, extensive professional development opportunities, and a commitment to innovative teaching practices, the GDST offers a unique environment where educators can thrive and grow. Located in a vibrant community, our school provides a dynamic platform for collaboration and creativity, ensuring that every team member feels valued and motivated to contribute to our students' success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Futures: Shape Elite University Pathways in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend events, and connect with alumni. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and practising common questions. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for the role and the impact you want to make shine through. It’s all about making that personal connection.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Futures: Shape Elite University Pathways in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for empowering students shine through in your application. We want to see how you connect with the role and why you're excited about shaping elite university pathways.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description. Highlight your experience in careers leadership and any innovative strategies you've implemented that align with our vision.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us your story. Share specific examples of how you've guided students through their academic journeys and how you plan to bring that expertise to our Futures Programme.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford High School GDST
✨Know Your Aspirations
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your vision for the Futures Programme. Be ready to discuss how you can inspire students and empower them to pursue elite university pathways. Show that you understand the importance of guiding students through their career journeys.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or initiatives in the past. Highlight your ability to build relationships and foster an enterprising mindset among students. This role is all about strategic leadership, so be sure to convey your approach to collaboration and support.
✨Demonstrate Your Industry Connections
Be ready to talk about your network of alumnae and industry partners. Discuss how you plan to maintain and leverage these connections to provide students with meaningful encounters with the world of work. This will show your commitment to real-world applications and opportunities.
✨Engage with Data Insights
Familiarise yourself with data analysis related to student outcomes and university admissions. Be prepared to discuss how you would use this data to inform your strategies and ensure high academic ambitions are met. This demonstrates your analytical skills and commitment to continuous improvement.
