At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop a passionate team of youth work professionals.
- Company: BHY, dedicated to empowering young people in Blackpool.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on continuous learning and growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in youth work and shape future leaders.
- Qualifications: Experience in youth work leadership and a JNC-recognised qualification.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
The Head of People is responsible for developing, leading and strengthening the BHY workforce. This role sits at the heart of our strategic ambition to build a team of highly skilled, qualified Youth Work professionals, supported by an effective and confident wider team.
You will lead on:
- Workforce development and progression (Level 1-6 JNC pathway)
- Personal Development Plans and CPD across all roles
- Embedding a culture of continuous learning and reflective practice
- Ensuring our staff understand and respond to the needs of young people
You will play a key role in ensuring BHY continues to deliver youth work that is consistent, high-quality and rooted in the real needs of young people in Blackpool. This role is about growing people, raising standards and creating a workforce that delivers an exceptional youth work offer every day.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Strategic Leadership of People
- Lead the delivery of The BHY's workforce strategy
- Drive the ambition to employ 20 qualified Youth Work Professionals
- Shape a culture of learning, reflection and continuous improvement
- Contribute to organisational strategy as part of the Senior Leadership Team aligning with National Youth Work Strategy and Policy.
- Leadership & Line Management
- Line management responsibility of Youth Work Managers
- Deliver consistent, high-quality reflective supervision and support.
- Hold managers accountable for:
- Staff development
- Team performance
- Quality of delivery
- Support managers to confidently lead, challenge and grow their teams.
- Workforce Development & JNC Progression
- Design and embed a clear Level 1-6 Youth Work pathway
- Track and support progression of staff through JNC levels
- Ensure all staff understand their development journey and next steps
- Build a strong internal pipeline of future youth workers
- Personal Development & Continuous Learning
- Lead on Personal Development Plans (PDPs) and appraisals across the organisation
- Identify training needs and deliver or commission CPD opportunities
- Embed a culture of reflective practice across all teams
- Create opportunities for staff to learn from delivery, each other and young people
- Understanding Young People & Practice
- Ensure staff are equipped to understand and respond to the needs of young people
- Support teams to reflect on their practice and adapt their approach
- Promote youth work that is relationship-led, inclusive and responsive
- Ensure young people's voices inform staff development and programme delivery
- Apprenticeships & Talent Development
- Lead and oversee BHY's apprenticeship pathway
- Build strong relationships with training providers, universities and colleges
- Support the progression of young people and staff into youth work and operational roles.
- Strengthen BHY's 'grow your own' workforce model.
- People Management & Support
- Provide guidance and support to managers on:
- Performance management
- Staff development and opportunities
- Wellbeing and Workforce Planning
- Disciplinary and grievance processes.
- Ensure HR policies are consistent, compliant and reflect best practice.
- Safeguarding & Professional Standards
- Ensure safeguarding is embedded within workforce development
- Promote high standards of professional behaviour and practice
- Work alongside the DSL to ensure staff are trained, confident and supported
THE PERSON
We are looking for a strong, values-driven leader who is passionate about people and youth work. You will be:
- A natural leader who enjoys developing others
- Passionate about growing people and building teams
- Experienced in managing and supporting staff
- Committed to continuous learning and reflective practice
- A strong communicator who builds trust and relationships quickly
- Confident in holding people accountable while supporting their development
- Deeply aligned with the values and purpose of youth work
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential Experience
- Significant experience leading teams within a youth or community setting
- Experience managing and developing staff teams
- Experience designing and delivering workforce development or CPD
- Strong understanding of youth work principles and practice
- Experience implementing performance management and development processes
Essential Qualifications
- JNC-recognised Youth & Community Work qualification.
- Level 3 Safeguarding (or willingness to obtain)
- Experience contributing to organisational strategy
Desirable
- Experience developing Level 1-6 Youth Work pathways
- Experience with apprenticeships or workforce development programmes
- HR or people management training (e.g. CIPD or equivalent experience)
HOW TO APPLY
To apply for this role, please complete our online application form and send a Covering Letter to [email]. Please email any enquiries to [email] or tel: [number]. Please note: We reserve the right to close the application process at any time and therefore encourage early applicants.
Head of People in Somerset employer: The Boathouse Youth
BHY is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development within the youth work sector. Located in Blackpool, we offer a supportive environment where staff are empowered to grow through tailored Personal Development Plans and CPD opportunities, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the needs of young people. Our commitment to building a highly skilled workforce and promoting reflective practice makes BHY a rewarding place to work for those passionate about making a difference in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of People in Somerset
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the youth work sector. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching BHY’s values and mission. Make sure you can articulate how your experience aligns with their goals. Practise common interview questions and think of examples that showcase your leadership and development skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for youth work! During interviews, share stories that highlight your commitment to developing others and creating inclusive environments. This will resonate with BHY’s focus on building a strong, skilled workforce.
✨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 the team and contributing to BHY’s mission of delivering exceptional youth work.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of People in Somerset
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic:When you're writing your application, let your true self shine through! We want to see your passion for youth work and how your values align with ours. Don't be afraid to share personal experiences that highlight your leadership style and commitment to developing others.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Make sure your cover letter speaks directly to the role of Head of People. Highlight your experience in workforce development and how you've successfully led teams in the past. We love seeing specific examples that demonstrate your ability to drive a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
Showcase Your Skills:In your application, clearly outline your relevant skills and experiences. Whether it's managing staff or designing training programmes, we want to know how you can contribute to our mission. Use bullet points for clarity and make it easy for us to see why you're the perfect fit!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It's the best way to ensure we receive all your materials correctly. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at BHY. Remember, early applicants have a better chance, so get your application in soon!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Boathouse Youth
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of the Head of People role. Familiarise yourself with BHY's workforce strategy and how it aligns with the National Youth Work Strategy. This will show that you’re not just interested in the position, but also in the organisation’s mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how you’ve successfully developed teams in the past. Think of specific examples where you’ve driven performance and supported staff development. This is your chance to demonstrate your passion for growing people and building strong teams.
✨Emphasise Continuous Learning
Since the role focuses on embedding a culture of continuous learning, be ready to share your thoughts on professional development. Discuss any initiatives you’ve led or participated in that promote reflective practice and personal development plans. This will highlight your commitment to growth.
✨Connect with the Youth Work Principles
Understand the core principles of youth work and be prepared to discuss how they inform your practice. Share examples of how you’ve engaged with young people and adapted your approach based on their needs. This will show that you’re aligned with the values and purpose of youth work.
