At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver engaging workshops and educational sessions on rail safety and sustainable travel.
- Company: Join a dynamic education programme promoting community engagement through rail partnerships.
- Benefits: Full-time permanent role with opportunities for professional development and travel.
- Other info: Flexible working with potential for career growth and community involvement.
- Why this job: Inspire young minds while making a positive impact on local communities and the environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in education, strong communication skills, and a passion for teaching.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are looking for a Platform Learning Development Officer to join the team.
Location: Wiltshire and Dorset
Hours: Full-time
Contract: Permanent
About the Role
Platform is an education programme for five Community Rail Partnerships (TransWilts, Gloucestershire, Worcestershire, Severnside and South Wessex). Community Rail Partnerships (CRPs) bring together local groups and partners along railway lines to work with the rail industry to deliver a range of community engagement and promotional activities. They promote understanding of the importance of local railways, in terms of improving mobility and sustainable travel, community cohesion and wellbeing, and social and economic development. Platform helps teachers to build their students’ knowledge of rail-safety, their understanding of sustainable and healthy travel, and their confidence in using trains. This role involves working on site at schools, on trains and at stations which can necessitate early starts as we cover a large region (wherever possible travel will be via train and a train pass will be issued).
Main duties and responsibilities include:
- Deliver in-school workshops and assemblies tailored to the needs of students and schools using appropriate engagement and behaviour management techniques.
- Confidently deliver rail familiarisation education sessions – including safety briefings – at stations, on trains, and wherever relevant.
- Develop, edit and adjust workshops routinely.
- Be the principal contact for schools in the lead up to their trips, design itineraries and book future trips.
- Take responsibility for filling bookings and meeting targets by conducting targeted marketing.
- Shadow colleagues from Platform and Community Rail and embed good practice into their own workshops.
- Liaise with stakeholders including teachers, school staff, train operating companies and staff at stations to ensure the smooth operation of a trip.
- Contribute to risk assessment planning for school trips and workshops and follow safeguarding procedures.
- Adhere to meticulous safety protocol when travelling by train and at stations.
- Gather feedback from students and teachers at the end of workshops and train trips using QR code stickers and Impact surveys.
- On non-delivery days, plan, research and create curriculum-linked learning resources across KS1 to KS3 (may only be 1 or 2 days a month).
- Generate ideas for innovative and exciting lessons that meet curriculum objectives, and link to the rail industry/local areas.
- Gather meaningful data and use it to influence reports.
Positions:
- Devon and South Somerset – Candidate ideally located close to Exeter stations, to deliver the programme to schools around rail routes across Devon and South Somerset (fixed-term contract 1st September 2026 – 31st July 2027. This post has the potential of extending depending on future funding).
- Wiltshire and Dorset – Candidate ideally located close to Westbury station, to deliver the programme to schools around rail routes to Weymouth and Swindon (maternity cover starting 1st September 2026 for up to 12 months or until the postholder returns).
About You
We are looking for someone with experience in, and enthusiasm for, delivering primary and/or secondary curriculum-led educational sessions in an inspiring and motivating way and a clear understanding and experience of the education sector.
Required experience and qualifications:
- Ability to work supportively, empathetically and flexibly with teachers, school staff and young people.
- Knowledge of Safeguarding procedures and KCSIE.
- Experience of delivering off-site learning, such as school trips or visits with community groups.
- Experience of using data to inform future actions.
- Experience of writing, or contributing to, risk assessments.
- Confidence to approach schools by telephone, in person and via email to market the scheme in order to reach scheme targets.
- Represent the scheme at community and networking events.
- A Qualified Teaching Qualification.
- A current first aid certificate or willingness to do the training.
- Driving licence, with access to a car for occasions where travelling by train isn’t viable.
Learning Development Officer in England employer: Platform Rail Education
As a Learning Development Officer with us, you'll be part of a dynamic team dedicated to enhancing community engagement through education in the beautiful regions of Wiltshire and Dorset. We offer a supportive work culture that values innovation and collaboration, alongside opportunities for professional growth and development within the education sector. With a focus on meaningful impact, you will enjoy the unique advantage of working closely with local schools and communities, promoting sustainable travel and rail safety while making a difference in students' lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Development Officer in England
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company and its mission! Before any interview, do a bit of homework on the Community Rail Partnerships and their impact. This will help us connect your passion for education with their goals, making you a standout candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your delivery skills! Since the role involves workshops and assemblies, we recommend rehearsing your presentation style. Maybe even gather some friends or family for a mock session to get comfortable with engaging an audience.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn to gain insights about the role and the team. This can give you a leg up in understanding what they value most in candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our community-focused mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Development Officer in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in delivering educational sessions. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Learning Development Officer, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for education and community engagement shine through in your application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in students' lives, so share your motivation and any relevant experiences that fuel your passion.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re a great fit for the role!
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 position. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Platform Rail Education
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, research the Community Rail Partnerships and their impact on local communities. Understanding their mission will help you tailor your responses and show genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience in delivering educational sessions. Bring examples of how you've engaged students and adapted your teaching methods to different learning styles. This will demonstrate your ability to inspire and motivate young people.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about handling challenging situations, especially in a school environment. Think of specific instances where you've successfully managed behaviour or adapted a lesson plan on the fly. This will highlight your problem-solving skills.
✨Highlight Your Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves liaising with various stakeholders, be prepared to discuss your experience working with teachers, parents, and community groups. Share examples of how you've built relationships and worked collaboratively to achieve common goals.
