At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students' health needs and promote wellbeing in a vibrant college environment.
- Company: Join Queen Alexandra College, a leading charity dedicated to inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, wellness activities, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team committed to empowering students and fostering growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of students with special educational needs.
- Qualifications: NMC registered nurse with experience in health assessments and support for diverse needs.
The predicted salary is between 30205 - 35818 £ per year.
You will be responsible for overseeing the general health needs of students on a daily basis and the support and development of college staff to manage the health needs of students across the academic and residential services.
Key Responsibilities & Safeguarding
- Promote the values, aims and ethos of the College both within your role as a nurse and within the corporate life of the College.
- Have an awareness/experience of working with individuals with learning disabilities/difficulties, autism, physical disabilities, mental health needs and visual impairment.
- Support students with a range of health needs and interventions including epilepsy, diabetes, asthma, anaphylaxis, PEG feeding, intermittent catheterisation, intramuscular and subcutaneous injections and tissue viability/pressure area care.
- Assess the primary health needs of students who attend the Healthcare Centre on an ‘as required’ basis and provide appropriate treatment.
- Assess the health needs of individuals referred for a place at QAC and produce a report outlining the support they would need.
- Produce guidance, protocols and care plans to be implemented across the college to ensure that the needs of students can be met by all who support them.
- Maintain accurate, professional written and electronic records in line with GDPR and the NMC Nursing Code of Conduct.
- Periodically review and evaluate the care provided to students.
- Provide first aid to students, staff and visitors who are involved in accidents or incidents resulting in injury.
- Work with colleagues to offer a health promotion service that meets the needs of the students.
- Administer, store and manage medication in line with current nursing legislation and standards.
- Participate in the provision of support and training to staff and students with regards to health needs and interventions.
- Complete regular audits of medication and first aid equipment and ensure that all Healthcare Centre tasks are completed as required.
- Demonstrate sound decision making and critical thinking skills and be able to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively in a busy and sometimes unpredictable environment.
- Have the ability to work effectively under pressure and with limited supervision.
- Be able to communicate effectively at all levels with students, their families/carers, staff and external agencies.
- Undertake any relevant training to support your clinical role and be responsible for your own professional development in line with Revalidation procedures.
- Attend regular team meetings and other college meetings as required.
- Work with healthcare staff to maintain standards of infection control, including hand washing, universal hygiene procedures, appropriate disposal of waste materials, dealing with blood or bodily fluid spillages and assisting students and colleagues in adopting sound infection control measures.
- Ability to work flexibly with occasional evening, weekend working to support student or training requirements, with reasonable notice.
- Demonstrate a good understanding of equality and diversity and encourage students to be involved in their care, respecting their physical, emotional and social needs.
- Work in a professional manner, honouring the NMC Nursing Code of Conduct and keeping up to date with professional developments within your range of practice and beyond.
- Have an awareness of Ofsted and CQC regulations with regards to Specialist Colleges.
- Work effectively as both part of a team and on your own initiative and ensure that the needs of the students are at the centre of all you do.
- Perform such other duties consistent with the nature of the post as may be required from time to time.
Other Duties
- QAC employees may be expected to undertake designated emergency response duties as part of their role.
- This includes 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.
Safeguarding Commitments
As part of our commitment to safeguarding, and in line with updated guidance published in September 2026, we will carry out an online search of all shortlisted candidates. This search may enable us to identify any incidents or issues that have happened, and publicly available for review online, which we may wish to explore with you in further detail during the interview process. As part of your application we have asked you to provide the account names, usernames and/or handles for any social media platform that you use, as well as the names of any websites that you own, post on, or contribute to. A Google search will also be conducted. These checks will only be conducted if you are shortlisted for interview. Please see our safer recruitment and selection policy for further information. Under Section 7 of SVGA 2006 it is an offence to apply for the role if the applicant is barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children. The College's Safeguarding Policies are available here. We are deeply committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All required pre-employment checks will be undertaken, and offers of employment are subject to satisfactory outcomes. These include an enhanced DBS check with Children & Adult’s Barred List information, identity checks, online checks, and verification of professional qualifications and references. Further details are available in Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE).
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- NMC registered nurse (RN/RNLD/RMN)
- Be able to carry out detailed health assessments and write reports outlining the support required.
- To be able to produce a range of health protocols and guidelines in collaboration with families/carers, students, health professionals and staff.
- Be competent in delivering all aspects of medication management within a health care setting.
- Ability to communicate effectively, and demonstrate excellent communication skills: verbal, listening & written, with a wide range of individuals including students, their family and medical professionals.
- Participate in the provision of support and training to staff and students with regards to health needs and interventions.
- Have an awareness of Ofsted and CQC standards.
- Basic IT knowledge.
- Experience of working with people with learning disabilities, autism, physical disabilities and mental health conditions.
- Involvement in the implementation and evaluation of health protocols and clinical guidelines.
- Experience of carrying out audits.
- Experience of providing enhanced first aid procedures in line with current practice.
- Experience of working with minimal supervision and the ability to make sound clinical judgements within limited timescales.
- Knowledge of person centred, outcomes focused approaches in delivery of care.
- Knowledge of a range of health needs and clinical interventions including epilepsy, diabetes, asthma, anaphylaxis, PEG feeding, intermittent catheterisation, intramuscular and subcutaneous injections and tissue viability/pressure area/wound care.
- Aware of accountability of own role and other roles in a nurse-led service, in line with the NMC Code of Conduct.
Benefits
Are you passionate about making a difference to the lives of students with special educational needs? Do you thrive in an inclusive and supportive academic environment? If so, we want YOU to join our team. QAC has dealt with a period of swift growth and academic improvement and this is your opportunity to become part of a vibrant College that is moving forward and making a real difference to the lives and futures of our students. Queen Alexandra Charity offers you the chance to have a positive impact as you join a committed group of colleagues in ensuring that all students achieve their aims and aspirations. We are dedicated to providing exceptional education and support to students with diverse learning needs and life experiences. Our specialist setting fosters an inclusive community where every student is valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. QAC offers a vibrant, varied and enriching educational experience for both residential and day students. Our curriculum aims to maximise adult life, independence and work opportunities for all students. Class sizes are designed to meet specific needs and support levels are high. Joining our supportive team, you will have the opportunity to:
- Work closely with students with SEN to achieve their goals.
- Make a difference to the educational experience of young people.
- Be a voice for students and staff in specialist education.
- Foster a positive and inclusive learning environment, promoting academic growth, self-development and self-confidence.
- Develop your own skills, aspirations and progress your career.
Our benefits include:
- 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.
Nurse employer: Queen Alexandra College
As a Positive Behaviour & Engagement Officer at our college in Harborne, Birmingham, you will join a supportive and collaborative environment dedicated to fostering student engagement and wellbeing. We offer a range of benefits including access to fitness facilities, flexible working arrangements, and comprehensive health support, all while promoting a culture of continuous professional development. Our commitment to safeguarding and person-centred approaches ensures that you will be part of a team that values empathy, respect, and the growth of both students and staff.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nurse
✨Tap into Local Healthcare Networks
Getting involved with local healthcare communities is a game-changer for nursing roles. Join nursing associations or attend local events and workshops where you can meet fellow professionals and potential employers. It’s all about building those connections – your next full-time gig could be just a chat away!
✨Showcase Your Skills in Real-Life Settings
Consider volunteering at clinics or hospitals if you can squeeze in some time. Not only does this help you gain practical experience, but it also shows your commitment to patient care. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to network and potentially land a full-time role at a facility you enjoy!
✨Use LinkedIn like a Pro
Make your LinkedIn profile pop by highlighting your nursing skills prominently. Share articles, insights, or case studies that demonstrate your knowledge in patient care. Engaging with content in nursing forums can also put you on the radar of recruiters looking for full-time talent like you!
✨Direct Applications are Key!
When you spot a role that excites you, don't hold back – apply directly through our website! Tailor your application to show off how your specific experiences align with the needs at Queen Alexandra College for the Nurse role. Companies appreciate candidates who take initiative and show genuine interest!
We think you need these skills to ace Nurse
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Qualifications:When applying for a full-time nursing role with Queen Alexandra College, it's crucial to highlight your nursing qualifications. Make sure to include any relevant certifications, such as your NMC registration and any specialisations. List them front and centre on your CV so we can see your expertise at a glance!
Craft a Compassionate Cover Letter:Your cover letter is the perfect place to express your passion for patient care. Talk about your experiences, how you handle challenging situations, and your approach to teamwork. This gives us insight not just into your skills but also into your caring nature, which is essential in nursing.
Emphasise Soft Skills:In nursing, technical skills are important, but we're also keen on soft skills. Make sure to highlight your communication abilities, empathy, and problem-solving skills. These attributes are often just as critical in delivering exceptional patient care and will help differentiate you from other candidates.
Tailor Your Experience to Patient Care:When detailing your experience, be specific about your direct patient care roles. Focus on the impact you’ve made on your patients’ lives—mention specific tasks, challenges you've overcame, or improvements you’ve contributed to. This helps us visualise you in action at Queen Alexandra College, and how you can make a difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Queen Alexandra College
✨Brush Up on Clinical Scenarios
In nursing, you might face questions around patient scenarios, so sharpen your clinical judgment skills. Think through common cases—like managing a patient with specific needs or handling emergencies—and be ready to articulate your approach confidently.
✨Showcase Your Soft Skills
Beyond technical skills, nursing is all about communication and empathy. Prepare to share examples from your experiences that highlight your ability to connect with patients and work effectively in a team, as this is crucial for a full-time role at Queen Alexandra College.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Healthcare Regulations
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest healthcare regulations and policies relevant to your role. This knowledge not only shows your commitment to patient safety but also signals that you're proactive and engaged—qualities that full-time employers like Queen Alexandra College appreciate.
✨Ask AboutCareer Development Opportunities
Since this is a full-time position, show your ambition by asking how Queen Alexandra College supports growth and development. Inquire about ongoing training, mentorship programmes, or opportunities to specialise in particular areas, as this illustrates your long-term interest in nursing.