At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage the careers programme, providing guidance and support to students.
- Company: Woodpecker Court, an Ofsted Outstanding Specialist Post-16 Provider.
- Benefits: Supportive team, unique setting, and access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
- Why this job: Shape positive futures for young people and make a meaningful impact.
- Qualifications: Qualified Tutor/Teacher with Level 6 CEIAG qualification and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Join a values-driven team committed to student success and ongoing professional development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Woodpecker Court is an Ofsted Outstanding Specialist Post‑16 Provider offering a unique setting for young people aged 16–24 who thrive outside mainstream education. With academic learning, hands‑on vocational opportunities and a nurturing, values‑driven ethos, we help students build confidence, resilience and ambition. We are seeking an experienced Head of Careers / Senior Tutor to lead our careers provision and deliver high‑quality guidance alongside tutoring functional skills and vocational qualifications. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated, organised and student‑focused professional who wants to shape positive futures.
About the Role
You will manage the provision careers programme, ensuring every student receives impartial information, advice and guidance about education, training and employment. You will build links with FE colleges, apprenticeship providers, employers and universities, creating inspiring encounters and progression opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, develop and manage the school's careers programme
- Provide impartial 1:1 and group careers guidance and support students with action plans.
- Organise careers events, employer encounters, FE/HE visits and work‑experience opportunities.
- Maintain destination data, careers resources and website content.
- Build strong partnerships with external providers and employers.
- Teach well‑structured lessons and monitor student progress.
- Promote Woodpecker Court’s values and contribute to wider school life.
- Maintain high expectations for behaviour, safety and wellbeing.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues, SLT, SENCO and external agencies.
Person Specification
- Qualified Tutor/Teacher with successful experience
- Level 6 CEIAG qualification
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Strong safeguarding and behaviour‑management knowledge
- Ability to build positive relationships with students, staff and partners
- Good ICT skills, including MIS systems
- Committed to student success and the ethos of Woodpecker Court
- Organised, enthusiastic, resilient and able to manage varied demands
- Willing to engage in ongoing professional development
What We Offer
A unique and inspiring setting, a supportive values‑driven team, opportunities for meaningful impact, and access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
Safeguarding Statement
Woodpecker Court is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The post is subject to an enhanced DBS check, two references, identity and qualification checks, and online searches in line with KCSIE. Providing false or misleading information may result in the withdrawal of an offer.
How to Apply
Please complete and return the application form to Dawn Fisher at personnel@woodpeckercourt.com. Please note: In line with our safeguarding procedures, we cannot accept CVs alone. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive a suitable number of applications.
Head of Careers / Senior Tutor - Full-time employer: Sandwich Infant
Contact Detail:
Sandwich Infant Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Careers / Senior Tutor - Full-time
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have ties with Woodpecker Court. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for student success! When you get the chance to meet with the hiring team, share specific examples of how you've positively impacted students' lives. This will demonstrate that you're not just about qualifications but genuinely care about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching Woodpecker Court's values and ethos. Think about how your own beliefs align with theirs and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their mission of nurturing young people outside mainstream education.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a simple gesture that shows your enthusiasm and professionalism, and it keeps you fresh in their minds.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Careers / Senior Tutor - Full-time
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for helping students shine through. We want to see how you connect with our values and how you can inspire young people to achieve their goals.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. We’re looking for someone who understands the unique challenges of post-16 education, so show us how you fit the bill!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to see why you’re the right fit for the Head of Careers role.
Follow the Instructions: Don’t forget to complete the application form as instructed! We can’t accept CVs alone, so make sure you follow our guidelines and submit everything through our website to ensure your application is considered.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sandwich Infant
✨Know the Organisation Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research Woodpecker Court thoroughly. Understand their ethos, values, and the unique educational approach they offer. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Given the nature of the role, be ready to discuss how you would handle specific situations related to careers guidance and student support. Think of examples from your past experience where you've successfully led a careers programme or supported students in achieving their goals.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Head of Careers/Senior Tutor, strong communication is key. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to convey information clearly and engage with different audiences. You might even want to prepare a brief presentation on a relevant topic to showcase your skills.
✨Highlight Your Collaborative Spirit
This role involves working closely with colleagues, external partners, and students. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully collaborated in the past, and share your ideas on building strong partnerships with FE colleges, employers, and other stakeholders.