At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and modernise careers strategy, connecting students to sustainable employment opportunities.
- Company: Join RNN Group, a forward-thinking education provider making a real impact in communities.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, wellness support, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and access to excellent facilities across multiple campuses.
- Why this job: Transform lives by bridging education and employment for students in your community.
- Qualifications: Degree-level qualification and experience in leading high-performing teams required.
Head of Careers and Progressions (Connecting Learners to the World of Work)
Location: Cross campus role for Rotherham College, Dearne Valley College and University Centre Rotherham in Rotherham and North Notts College in
- Worksop
- Vacancy
Type: Permanent, Full-time 37 hours each week, all year-round) Are you ready to redefine how education meets the world of work?
At the RNN Group, our ambition is clear: Leading innovation and skills in our communities.
We are looking for an extraordinary, dynamic, and forward-thinking leader to step into the pivotal role of Head of Careers and Progressions.
As the Head of Careers and Progressions, you will bridge the gap between full-time education and sustainable, paid employment.
You will lead, modernise, and champion the Group’s careers and transition strategy, ensuring every student who walks through our doors gains complete clarity on their next steps.
Key Responsibilities & Leadership Scope
- Strategic
- Team
Leadership: Lead and line-manage the Work Placement, Careers, and Individual Placement Support (IPS) teams, supporting advisors to achieve essential Level 6 CEIAG qualifications and ensuring every student receives expert, actionable guidance.
- In-House
- Recruitment
Agency: Establish an agency-style model that pairs employer skill shortages directly with learner’s talent, creating direct routes from full-time study into sustainable, paid employment.
- Defence & Regional
- Hub
Initiatives: Build an experiential Careers/CEIAG HUB supporting the Group’s role as a Defence Technical Excellence College (DTEC) and aligning local skills with the UK’s Defence Industrial Strategy, Fusion Power, STEM priorities, and the Trent Supercluster Gateway.
- Inclusive Pathways: Oversee tailored employment pathways for students with SEND needs and lead targeted re-engagement initiatives for hard-to-reach or hidden 19–24 NEET adults.
- Stakeholder
Collaboration: Partner closely with internal teams (Employer Engagement, Curriculum, Deputy CEO/Principal) and regional bodies (SYMCA, EMCCA Careers Hubs) to embed place-based skills solutions and prepare for FE/HE inspections and TEF validation.
If you are passionate about raising aspirations, dismantling social barriers, and creating high-value employer partnerships that transform lives, this is your opportunity to make a lasting regional impact.
- What you will need in this role Qualifications
- Degree-level qualification (or equivalent professional experience)
- Professional qualification in Careers Guidance (e. g., Level 6) or Management
- Level 2 Literacy and Numeracy (or equivalent) Experience
- Proven experience in leading, motivating, and managing high-performing teams.
- Track record of building strategic, mutually beneficial partnerships with external employers.
- Background in marketing educational/training provisions and negotiating business commitments.
- Demonstrated ability to drive and exceed performance targets (e. g., student destinations, placement completions). Practical Skills & Attitudes
- Highly developed communication, negotiation, and influencing skills across all levels.
- In-depth understanding of the Further Education sector, funding streams, and Gatsby Benchmarks.
- Strong knowledge of the local/regional economic landscape and LSIPs (Local Skills Improvement Plans).
- Data-driven analytical skills to monitor progression metrics and present strategic reports to senior leaders. Your Direct Leadership Scope
- Work Placement Team: Leading operations to secure meaningful industry placements.
- Careers Team: Line managing and supporting team members to acquire Level 6 CEIAG qualifications and deliver Gatsby Benchmark excellence.
- Individual Placement Support (IPS) & Youth/Job
- Guarantee
Teams: Overseeing bespoke interventions for NEET adults, disadvantaged learners, and SEND students.
Our excellent benefits and rewards package
- Access to local government pension scheme (with employer contributions from 15.6% to 23.68%)
- Up to 44 days annual leave per year including closure during Christmas period
- Access to our gyms, restaurants and salons
- Staff health & wellbeing and benefits schemes including in-house Occupational Health service
- Extensive wellbeing support through a digital Wellbeing Hub that offers a broad range of support for physical, mental, and financial wellbeing.
- Full, part time and flexible working hours available in many roles
- Free Parking available at all of our sites
- Fantastic career development opportunities including funding for teacher training, apprenticeships and various other industry recognised qualifications
- New FE teachers can also apply for grants of up to £6,000 in STEM subjects through the teacher retention initiative
- Recruitment Referral Scheme for all employees, worth £200 per referral made What is the RNN Group?
RNN Group’s main goal is to be an ‘outstanding’ education and training provider and this is at the heart of everything that we do.
To help us achieve this we are looking to recruit highly motivated, innovative and dynamic individuals to join our existing teams.
To Apply If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for RNN Group, please click apply to be redirected to their website to complete your application
Head of Careers and Progressions employer: RNN Group
As a Team Leader in Work Based Learning, you will join a dynamic and supportive environment dedicated to delivering exceptional apprenticeship programmes in Construction. Our company prioritises employee growth through continuous professional development opportunities, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. Located in a vibrant community, we offer competitive benefits and a commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of our apprentices.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Careers and Progressions
✨Dive into Digital Learning Communities
Join online forums and communities focused on digital education, like EdTech Meetups or LinkedIn groups. Engage actively—share ideas and insights, and you'll not only learn a ton but also connect with potential employers and thought leaders in the industry.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Skills
Create content that demonstrates your understanding of digital learning—think blogs, videos, or even free online workshops. This could catch the eye of companies like RNN Group looking for innovative thinkers. Plus, it’s a great way to practice your presentation skills!
✨Utilise University Career Services
If you're still in education or have access to an alumni network, make the most of your university's career services. They often have exclusive job listings and workshops tailored to students wanting to break into full-time roles in education technology.
✨Apply Directly Via Company Websites
When you come across roles like Head of Careers and Progressions at RNN Group, make sure to apply directly through their website. It not only shows you're serious but sometimes you'll find positions listed there that may not be on job boards yet. Keep an eye on those!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Careers and Progressions
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Learning:When applying for a role in digital learning and education at RNN Group, make sure to sprinkle your application with examples of your enthusiasm for teaching and learning technologies. Share specific experiences where you've used, designed, or implemented digital learning solutions, as this shows us that you truly get the field.
Highlight Relevant Education and Certification:In the digital learning space, having a strong educational background can set you apart. Don't shy away from showcasing your degrees, certifications, or relevant courses related to e-learning, instructional design, or educational technology. We love seeing candidates who have actively invested in their learning journey!
Tailor Your CV to the Role:Your CV is your first impression, so let's make it count! Focus on your skills directly related to digital learning, such as course development, learning management systems, and data analysis. Be sure to show measurable results from your past roles to demonstrate your impact and effectiveness.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your qualifications, but your vision for the future of digital education. Discuss how your experiences align with the mission of RNN Group and highlight any innovative ideas you might have for enhancing learning experiences. This is your chance to connect with us on a deeper level!
How to prepare for a job interview at RNN Group
✨Get Hands-On with Learning Technologies
Familiarise yourself with common digital learning tools and platforms, like LMS systems or authoring tools that RNN Group might use. Understanding these will give you an edge and show you’re ready to jump in from day one!
✨Showcase Your Creativity in Lesson Design
Prepare a portfolio of your past projects if you have them, or create sample lesson plans or digital content demos. Being able to discuss your creative approach to engaging students can really set you apart in a full-time role at RNN Group.
✨Brush Up on Educational Trends
Stay in the loop with the latest trends in digital education, like gamification or personalised learning experiences. This will help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview and demonstrate your passion for the field.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Expect to be asked about your experience working collaboratively with educators or other stakeholders. Consider discussing how you've contributed to a team effort in creating engaging educational content or improving student outcomes.
