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- Tasks: Support students with guidance and advice to help them succeed in their education and future careers.
- Company: Join Merton College, a leading provider of post-16 education in London.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, wellbeing leave, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional development and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and help them achieve their full potential.
- Qualifications: Level 4 qualification in IAG or related fields, plus experience with young people.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
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.
Responsibilities
- 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.
Qualifications and Experience
- 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.
Interview Process
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.
Compensation and Benefits
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.
Equality and Diversity
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.
Background of the Group
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.
Additional Information
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.
Student Support Adviser employer: South Thames Colleges Group
Contact Detail:
South Thames Colleges Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Student Support Adviser
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Student Support Advisers and ask them about their experiences. This can give you insider knowledge and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that second interview! Since you'll be engaging with students, think of creative ways to demonstrate your support strategies. Role-play scenarios can help you feel more confident.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your safeguarding knowledge! Be ready to discuss how you would handle various situations involving vulnerable young people. This will highlight your expertise and commitment to student welfare.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Merton College.
We think you need these skills to ace Student Support Adviser
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of a Student Support Adviser. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to support our students effectively.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your qualifications and experience, focus on your work with vulnerable young people and any relevant interventions you've delivered. We love seeing real examples of how you've made a difference in similar roles!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your strengths and suitability for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Merton College.
How to prepare for a job interview at South Thames Colleges Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the role of a Student Support Adviser. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities outlined in the job description, especially around safeguarding and supporting students. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you’re genuinely interested in the position.
✨Engage with Scenarios
Since the second interview involves engaging with students, think about potential scenarios you might face. Prepare to demonstrate your approach to delivering 1:1 interventions or facilitating workshops. Practising these interactions can help you feel more at ease during the actual interview.
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Let your enthusiasm for supporting students shine through. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to helping young people succeed. This will resonate with the interviewers and show that you align with their mission of putting students' success at the heart of everything they do.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the types of activities you might engage learners with or how the college measures student success. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a better understanding of the role and the organisation.