At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage and support students through activities, workshops, and personal development initiatives.
- Company: Join a student-focused team at Merton College, dedicated to enhancing student experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, wellbeing leave, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration across campuses.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification in relevant fields and experience in planning engaging activities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Position Overview
Permanent, Full Time (36 hours a week, over 52 weeks 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 in post prior to August 2026.
Student Services supports students at each stage of their journey from pre-entry to post exit. The department has a student-oriented culture and puts students' needs at the heart of everything it does.
Responsibilities
As our Youth Worker, you will work as a member of the team to contribute to a wide and varied programme, which will include co-leading and delivering a range of activities to students. You will work with students that may be identified through safeguarding processes, supporting social spaces, including our Enrichment Hub, and deliver personal development activities which support developing positive behaviour and attitudes amongst students.
You will play a key role in engaging with students around the campus in both a formal and informal basis, to ensure that students are attending lessons and that social spaces, corridors and other communal areas in the College are safe and welcoming and that students maintain reasonable standards of behaviour.
Qualifications
You will be qualified to Level 3 or above in a relevant area such as Youth and Community Work, Education, Psychology, Sociology, Health & Social Care, or Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) and have experience of planning and delivering enrichment activities and events that enhance the student experience, as well as delivering workshops, presentations, or tutorials to diverse student groups. You will also have a strong understanding of safeguarding practices, procedures, and referral processes. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential, along with the ability to build strong rapport with students and work effectively with a wide range of external agencies.
Location
This role is predominantly based at Merton College but you may be required to work also from Carshalton College.
Benefits
The benefits package includes generous annual leave of 27 days plus up to 8 additional days over Christmas/New Year as well as an additional 5 days Wellbeing leave. There is an excellent pension scheme that receives a significant financial contribution from the employer (Teachers Pensions or Local Government Pension Scheme), subsidised sports facilities and professional development and training plus a salary-sacrifice cycle to work scheme.
Equality and EEO Statement
As outlined in the Public Sector Equality Duty of the Equality Act 2010, we are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships. As part of our due diligence checks on prospective employees, successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, an online search and proof of eligibility to work in the UK.
Application Notice
Closing date for the return of completed applications is 19th May 2026.
Youth Engagement Worker employer: South Thames Colleges Group
Contact Detail:
South Thames Colleges Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Youth Engagement Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Merton College and Carshalton College, their values, and the student community. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current Youth Engagement Workers or staff at the colleges on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for you. It’s all about building those connections!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking of examples from your past experiences that showcase your skills in youth work, safeguarding, and communication. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to the student experience.
We think you need these skills to ace Youth Engagement Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Youth Engagement Worker role. We want to see how you can contribute to our student-oriented culture!
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on activities that demonstrate your ability to engage with students and deliver enrichment programmes. We love seeing examples of your past work that relate directly to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role. Avoid jargon and keep it straightforward!
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 the position. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at South Thames Colleges Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the role of a Youth Engagement Worker. Brush up on your knowledge of safeguarding practices and how they apply to student interactions. Being able to discuss specific examples from your experience will show that you’re not just knowledgeable but also passionate about supporting students.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience in planning and delivering enrichment activities. Think of a few standout examples where you made a real impact on students' lives. This is your chance to demonstrate your communication and interpersonal skills, so be ready to share how you built rapport with diverse groups.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some thoughtful questions about the team culture and the types of activities you might be involved in. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in the role and eager to contribute to the student-oriented culture they value.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity goes a long way. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through during the interview. The role involves engaging with students, so showing your genuine self can help the interviewers see how you’d fit into their team and connect with the students.