Student Support Adviser in London

Please note that this post is funded for the 2026/27 academic year onwards, so the successful candidate would not be expected to commence prior to August 2026. Merton College offers an exciting opportunity for a Student Support Adviser to provide comprehensive, flexible support, information, advice and guidance to learners, improving their likelihood of successful completion of their programme and progression into further education, training, or employment.

The role involves working closely with students, staff, and external organisations to safeguard students, support their progression, and offer holistic support tailored to their needs. You will also help to provide a range of activities that engage learners within the wider college community and prepare them for life in society.

You will work in close liaison with students, staff, and external organisations to safeguard students and support them in achieving their full potential. You will deliver and support 1:1 interventions, produce risk assessments and support plans, and facilitate workshops or tutorials for diverse student groups.

Qualified to Level 4 or above in Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) or a relevant discipline such as youth and community work, education, psychology, sociology, or health and social care. Proven experience working with vulnerable young people, re‑engaging disengaged individuals, and supporting them to remain in or return to education or training. Strong safeguarding knowledge, understanding of post‑16 education services, and confidence delivering workshops.

Following the initial round of interviews, a second interview will include a session where you will be asked to engage with students. The role is predominantly based at Merton but may require travel to and work from Carshalton College on occasion.

Eligible for any salary increase following the annual cost of living review that will commence in the new academic year. Benefits include a generous annual leave entitlement of 27 days, up to 8 additional days over Christmas/New Year, 5 days wellbeing leave, a pension scheme with significant employer contributions (Teachers Pensions or Local Government Pension Scheme), subsidised sports facilities, professional development and training, and a salary sacrifice scheme.

Closing date for the return of completed applications is 19th May 2026.

As outlined in the Public Sector Equality Duty of the Equality Act 2010, we are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and encourage applications from individuals regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

The South Thames Colleges Group comprises Carshalton College, Kingston College, Merton College and South Thames College, which merged on 1 August 2017. It is one of London’s largest providers of post‑16 education and training and remains a significant contributor to local communities. We aim to put students' success at the heart of everything we do.

Successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, an online search and proof of eligibility to work in the UK. We are looking for hard‑working and collaborative people who can join our team and help challenge our students to progress and achieve.