At a Glance
- Tasks: Support learners on their educational journey and help them overcome barriers.
- Company: Join a compassionate team dedicated to making education accessible in prison settings.
- Benefits: Ongoing training, collaborative environment, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Experience in prison education is a plus; flexible teamwork is essential.
- Why this job: Be the first step in transforming lives through education and support.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 in Business Administration and strong interpersonal skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Be the first step in a learners journey. We are looking for a proactive and compassionate Student Support Coach to join our Prison Education team. This is a key front-facing role where you will support learners from their very first interaction with education, helping them access opportunities, overcome barriers, and stay engaged in learning. As the first point of contact for learners, you will play a vital role in shaping positive first impressions, supporting induction, and ensuring every learner is set up for success.
What you will be doing
- Induction & Assessment
- Deliver a warm and professional welcome to learners entering education
- Lead screening and assessment processes during induction
- Gather learner history and assess starting points
- Deliver engaging induction sessions to maximise participation and engagement
- Learner Engagement & Support
- Provide ongoing pastoral support to improve learner retention and achievement
- Build relationships with learners to understand goals and barriers
- Support learners at risk of disengagement and track interventions
- Use trauma-informed approaches to support learners effectively
- Progression & Guidance
- Offer advice and guidance on available courses and learning pathways
- Promote education opportunities, including Open University and distance learning
- Support applications and liaise with tutors and external organisations
- Ensure learners are enrolled on courses aligned to their sentence plans
- Administration & Operations
- Maintain accurate learner records and data across prison systems
- Support enrolment, registers, exams, and invigilation processes
- Coordinate with internal teams and partner agencies
- Help maintain systems for the smooth running of the education centre
- Teamwork & Flexibility
- Work collaboratively with tutors, support staff, and prison teams
- Support peer mentors and learner development activities
- Provide cover across the team, including admin and induction duties where required
- Contribute to achieving contract KPIs and standards
What we are looking for
- Essential NVQ Level 2 in Business Administration (or equivalent)
- Level 3 qualification in supporting individuals with learning disabilities (or equivalent)
- Strong IT skills and ability to manage and analyse data
- Excellent organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to motivate and engage learners, particularly those with barriers to education
- Experience in administration and working with individuals with additional needs or trauma
- High attention to detail and ability to manage records accurately
- Understanding of safeguarding, equality, and data protection
- Desirable Information, Advice and Guidance qualification
- Experience in prison or secure environments
- Experience of exam invigilation and multi-agency working
- Knowledge of OFSTED EIF
Why join us?
- Play a crucial role in supporting learner engagement and achievement
- Be part of a collaborative, supportive education team
- Develop experience in prison education and learner support
- Access ongoing training and development opportunities
Our values
- Customer First - supporting learners to improve their lives
- True North - acting with integrity
- Own It - taking accountability
- Improve to be the best - striving for excellence
If you are passionate about supporting learners and making education accessible, we would love to hear from you.
Student Support Coach in Essex employer: PeoplePlus
As an Industries Manager, you will join a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to rehabilitation and employability, making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals. Our supportive work culture prioritises safety, compliance, and personal development, offering numerous opportunities for growth and collaboration with skilled professionals. Located within a dynamic environment, you will have the chance to lead impactful initiatives that not only enhance operational performance but also empower prisoners with essential skills for their future careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Student Support Coach in Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture before your interview. Check out their website and social media to see how they engage with learners and what values they promote. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a Student Support Coach, you'll need to connect with learners effectively. Try role-playing common scenarios with a friend or family member to build your confidence and refine your approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to share your experiences! Think about times when you've supported someone through a challenge or helped them achieve a goal. These stories can really highlight your skills and show how you embody the values they're looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows that you’re keen on the role. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to reiterate why you’d be a perfect fit for their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Student Support Coach in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting learners shine through. We want to see how much you care about making education accessible and how you can contribute to our mission.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Use examples that align with the job description, especially around learner engagement and support, so we can see how you fit into our team.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This helps us quickly understand your qualifications and motivations.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at PeoplePlus
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Student Support Coach. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks like induction processes and learner engagement strategies. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Compassion
As a Student Support Coach, empathy is crucial. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've supported individuals facing challenges. Highlight how you’ve used trauma-informed approaches to help others, as this aligns perfectly with what they’re looking for.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions to ask about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or how they measure success in learner engagement. This shows that you’re not just interested in the job, but also in how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
Given the administrative aspects of the role, be ready to discuss how you manage records and data. Share specific tools or methods you use to stay organised, as this will reassure them of your ability to handle the operational side of the position effectively.
