Work Placement Coordinator – Childcare, Education and Early Years in Paignton

South Devon College seeks an organized and proactive Work Placement Coordinator to support our Childcare, Education and Early Years provision. The role involves coordinating high‑quality work placements, building employer partnerships, and supporting learners to achieve their full potential.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage work placement opportunities across childcare and early years settings.
• Build and maintain relationships with employers, negotiating new placement opportunities.
• Coordinate and administer placements, ensuring all compliance requirements (including DBS and health & safety) are met.
• Monitor student progress and support learners to complete placement hours and documentation.
• Conduct observations in placement settings to assess learner competence and professionalism.
• Support classroom‑based learning and contribute to programme delivery and review.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure audit and awarding body requirements are met.

Qualifications

• Experience in a relevant industry or a similar role involving placements, apprenticeships or learner support.
• Ability to build positive working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Motivated, adaptable and passionate about supporting learners to succeed.
• Strong organisational, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Commitment to student‑centred learning and inclusive practice.

Benefits

• 27 days annual leave (pro‑rata) and options to purchase additional holiday days.
• Extra holiday days for birthdays and each 5‑year service anniversary.
• Christmas closure of up to 2 weeks in addition to annual leave.
• Access to training, apprenticeships and funded higher‑education opportunities.
• Teacher’s Pension Scheme Employer contributions of 28.68%.
• Hybrid and flexible working patterns.
• Subsidised fitness suite, on‑site hair and beauty salon, catering facilities, outdoor gym and free eyesight tests.
• Major supermarket and high‑street employee discount schemes.
• Life Assurance (if member of pension scheme).
• On‑site nursery (Mama Bears).
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Blue Light Card membership.
• Discounted travel schemes.

Applicants must be in possession of an Enhanced DBS Certificate or be willing to undertake an Enhanced DBS check as a condition of employment. The College is committed to safeguarding and preventing harm to students, including children and young people. All staff and volunteers share this commitment. The College applies its Single Equality Scheme at all stages of recruitment and selection, ensuring a fair and inclusive process. Reasonable adjustments will be made to accommodate candidates with disabilities.