At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of innovative environmental studies programmes and enhance sustainability education.
- Company: Join Plumpton College, a leader in land-based and environmental education.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, and wellness perks like gym access and discounts.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive community focused on wellbeing and professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of sustainability education in a stunning rural setting.
- Qualifications: Degree in Environmental Science or related field with curriculum development experience.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Are you ready to be at the forefront of green education and help shape the future of sustainability learning? Do you want to work in a stunning rural setting, surrounded by a working farm, vineyard, and conservation projects? Join a college with strong industry connections and a commitment to innovation, where your passion for sustainability can make a real impact.
Plumpton College is one of the country's leading providers of land-based, food, and environmental education. With our extensive 800ha estate, including working farm, ancient woodland, SSSI landscape and vineyard, we are uniquely positioned to build on the impressive work we have undertaken to improve our biodiversity and sustainability credentials which resulted in us winning a prestigious Green Gown Award last year.
As part of our growth strategy, we are seeking an inspiring and strategic leader to drive our Environmental Studies curriculum whilst working in a cross-college capacity to ensure all students leave with improved carbon and sustainability literacy.
About the roleYou will drive the design and development of our environmental studies curriculum programmes, introducing new courses (e.g. Level 3 and 4 qualifications in Environmental Studies and Sustainability) and enhancing existing provision to deliver outstanding outcomes for students and meet the evolving skills needs of employers, and future green careers.
You will take a lead role working with curriculum teams across the College to ensure that sustainability principles are embedded across all courses, ensuring every Plumpton College student develops green skills relevant to their future path.
You will lead the recruitment, mentoring, and development of a high‐performing team of specialist lecturers in environmental and sustainability education.
We are looking for an inspiring and forward‐thinking leader passionate about shaping the future of environmental and sustainability education. You will hold a degree (or higher) in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Conservation or a related subject and have proven experience driving curriculum development in an educational setting. With strong industry connections across conservation and sustainability sectors, you will bring real‐world relevance to our programmes. You are confident with GIS, carbon footprinting, and digital tools in environmental science, and keep ahead of emerging green skills, policies, and sustainability trends. Experienced in leading multi‐disciplinary teams within education, you thrive on collaboration, innovation, and delivering meaningful impact for students and the wider community.
BenefitsWe offer a competitive salary and a generous benefits package, including 30 days' annual leave plus bank holidays and efficiency days. The role is eligible for the Teachers' Pension Scheme, including employer contributions and life assurance. Staff also benefit from high‐quality CPD and professional development opportunities.
As a Disability Confident Committed employer and signatory of the Menopause Pledge, we are proud to support an inclusive working environment. New colleagues benefit from a structured induction, a supported six‐month probationary period, and a strong coaching culture led by in‐house Level 5 trained coaches.
Employees also enjoy lifestyle and wellbeing benefits, including eligibility for a TOTUM and Blue Light Card, free eye tests, free use of our onsite gym, cycle‐to‐work scheme, discounted Plumpton produce and courses, free onsite parking, and access to our Employee Assistance Programme.
Our commitment to wellbeing and community is further demonstrated through active EDI and Sustainability committees, regular staff events and social activities throughout the year.
We reserve the right to interview or close the vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. Early applications are strongly encouraged.
Plumpton College is committed to the promotion of equal opportunities and is dedicated to pursuing non‐discriminatory policies and practices and eliminating unfair discrimination on any basis. Plumpton is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of learners and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Head of Environmental Studies in Lewes employer: Plumpton College
Plumpton College is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a stunning rural setting that fosters innovation and sustainability education. With a strong commitment to employee development, competitive benefits, and a vibrant work culture, staff are encouraged to thrive in their roles while making a meaningful impact on the future of environmental studies. Join us to be part of a community dedicated to shaping green careers and enhancing biodiversity through hands-on learning experiences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Environmental Studies in Lewes
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry connections and attend events related to environmental studies. We all know that who you know can sometimes be just as important as what you know, so get chatting!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for sustainability in every conversation. Whether it's during an interview or a casual chat, let your enthusiasm shine through. We want to see that fire in you for making a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare some killer questions for your interview. Ask about the college's future plans for sustainability education or how they integrate real-world practices into their curriculum. This shows you're genuinely interested and engaged!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our community at Plumpton College!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Environmental Studies in Lewes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Sustainability:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for environmental education shine through. We want to see how your passion aligns with our mission at Plumpton College and how you can contribute to shaping the future of sustainability learning.
Tailor Your Curriculum Experience:Make sure to highlight your experience in curriculum development, especially in environmental studies or related fields. We’re looking for someone who can drive innovative programmes, so share specific examples of how you've done this in the past.
Connect with Our Values:Familiarise yourself with our commitment to biodiversity and sustainability. In your application, mention how your values align with ours and how you can help us continue to improve our green credentials and make a real impact.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Plumpton College!
How to prepare for a job interview at Plumpton College
✨Know Your Green Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in environmental science and sustainability. Familiarise yourself with key concepts like carbon footprinting and GIS tools, as these will likely come up during your interview. Show them you're not just passionate but also knowledgeable!
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a potential leader, it's crucial to demonstrate your experience in mentoring and developing teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led multi-disciplinary teams in the past, focusing on collaboration and innovation. This will highlight your ability to drive curriculum development effectively.
✨Connect with Their Mission
Plumpton College is all about sustainability and green education. Make sure you align your personal values with their mission. Share your vision for how you can contribute to their goals and enhance the Environmental Studies curriculum. This will show that you're genuinely invested in their success.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about their current programmes, future plans, and how they integrate sustainability across all courses. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you.