At a Glance
- Tasks: Transport students safely to various locations using college vehicles, including wheelchair adapted minibuses.
- Company: Join Queen Alexandra College, a supportive and inclusive environment dedicated to student welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, fitness centre access, flexible working, and a range of wellbeing services.
- Other info: Be part of a team that values respect, excellence, and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives while gaining valuable driving experience and skills.
- Qualifications: Full clean driving licence and three years' driving experience required; training provided for MIDAS qualification.
The predicted salary is between 14346 - 14346 € per year.
The post holder will have responsibility for transporting individuals and/or groups of learners from across the College to our offsite campuses and other destinations within the West Midlands using vehicles from the College Fleet, including wheelchair adapted minibuses requiring a MIDAS qualification (training will be given).
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure the safe transportation of students from college to their destination and back.
- Ensure that staff and students are kept safe at all times whilst in College Vehicles.
- Ensure that vehicle checks are carried out upon each use of a College vehicle.
- Maintain the internal state of the vehicles, so that they are clean, comfortable and safe.
- Maintain the external state of the vehicles, so that they are clean and presentable.
- Ensure that all seat belts/straps/tie backs and safety devices are in correct working order.
- Regulate the behaviour of occupants so that rules (such as no smoking or eating) are observed and safely maintained.
- Where appropriate, escort passengers with a visual impairment and/or other disabilities to and from the vehicle.
- Operate vehicle tail lifts when required.
- Drive College vehicles safely and legally at all times, observing speed limits, parking regulations and other requirements.
General:
- Act at all times in accordance with the Staff Code of Conduct and QAC Values of Respect, Excellence, Enabling, Collaboration and Inclusion.
- Comply with all College policies and procedures.
- Undertake appropriate training and development as required, including mandatory MIDAS and/or refresher training required for the role.
- Carry out any other duties which may reasonably be required and fall within the scope and responsibility of the role.
Applications are invited from all suitably qualified and experienced people, in line with our equal opportunities policy.
Safeguarding Statement
Queen Alexandra College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and all staff and volunteers are required to act in such a way that at all times safeguards the health and wellbeing of our students/clients. Successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
Other Duties
- Receiving appropriate training, instruction and information to carry out emergency procedures safely and effectively.
- Responding to emergency situations in line with organisational policies and procedures.
- Supporting the organisation’s compliance with relevant Health and Safety legislation.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Hold a full, clean driving licence.
- Have a minimum of three years’ driving experience.
- Have good communication skills.
- Reliable and trustworthy.
- Have previous experience of working with, or social interaction with people with disabilities.
- Have an understanding of and commitment to equal opportunities.
Benefits
- Access to on site car parking.
- Use of QAC Fitness Centre (subject to opening hours).
- Cycle to Work Scheme (Salary Sacrifice).
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme Helpline (BHSF).
- Access to Education Support.
- Free Helpline for Teachers & Education Staff.
- QAC Mental Health First Aiders & activities to support health and wellbeing.
- BHSF Benefits Package including Healthcare Plans, discounted shopping/services.
- Annual Flu vaccination/voucher.
- Access to other benefit/discount schemes (which may be subject to charge) e.g. Blue Light Card, TOTUM (NUS), Charity Worker Discounts, Discounts for Teachers.
- Dell Advantage programme - a free programme that offers savings to students, parents and all staff at QAC - up to 20% off.
- Health and Wellbeing Services (Occupational Health/Counselling).
- Free Tea/Coffee and Staff Room facilities.
- Dining Room facilities with hot/cold food (free meal provided for those supporting students at mealtimes).
- Additional discretionary concessionary/closure days as part of leave entitlement (including closure over Christmas/New Year period).
- Reward and Recognition Policy – Living the Values Awards (team & individual) and long service.
- Enhanced/Occupational paid leave e.g. maternity/paternity (subject to qualifying criteria).
- Occupational sick pay (based on length of service).
- On site wellbeing activities (e.g. yoga, meditation).
- Support for training/ CPD (either by way of study leave and/or funding).
- Flexible working arrangements including Flexible Working Policy Agreements, Time Off in Lieu (TOIL) in prior agreement with line manager.
This list is not exhaustive and may be subject to review and/or change.
College Driver employer: Queen Alexandra College
Queen Alexandra College is an exceptional employer located in Harborne, Birmingham, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises the wellbeing of both staff and students. With a strong commitment to employee growth through training opportunities, including MIDAS certification, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes access to fitness facilities and mental health support, this role as a College Driver not only provides meaningful work but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration among colleagues.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land College Driver
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the College and its values! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Queen Alexandra College. Understanding their commitment to safeguarding and inclusion will help you align your answers with their ethos.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your driving skills! Since this role involves transporting students safely, make sure you're comfortable with all types of vehicles, especially those that are wheelchair adapted. If you can, take a few practice runs in similar vehicles.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your communication skills! During the interview, highlight any previous experience working with people with disabilities or in educational settings. This will demonstrate your ability to connect with students and staff alike.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Queen Alexandra College. Don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace College Driver
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Driving Skills:Make sure to highlight your driving experience in your application. We want to see that you’ve got a full, clean driving licence and at least three years behind the wheel. If you've worked with people with disabilities before, don’t forget to mention that too!
Safety First!:Since safety is key in this role, it’s a good idea to emphasise your commitment to keeping everyone safe while on the road. Share any relevant experiences where you’ve had to ensure safety protocols were followed.
Be Personable:Good communication skills are essential for this job. In your application, let us know how you interact with others, especially when it comes to working with students or individuals with disabilities. A friendly approach goes a long way!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Queen Alexandra College
✨Know Your Vehicle
Familiarise yourself with the types of vehicles you'll be driving, especially the wheelchair adapted minibuses. Understand their features and safety protocols, as this will show your commitment to ensuring passenger safety during the interview.
✨Highlight Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous driving experience, particularly any work with individuals with disabilities. Share specific examples that demonstrate your reliability and communication skills, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Safety First Mindset
Prepare to talk about how you prioritise safety while driving. Think of scenarios where you had to make quick decisions to ensure the safety of passengers and how you maintain vehicle cleanliness and functionality.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Values
Since the role involves collaboration with staff and students, be prepared to discuss how you embody the values of respect, excellence, and inclusion. Share experiences where you worked effectively in a team or supported individuals with diverse needs.
