At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead communications to unify two Multi-Academy Trusts and engage communities.
- Company: Join a vibrant family of schools dedicated to delivering great education.
- Benefits: Generous pension, discounts, CPD opportunities, and a supportive culture.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in education during a pivotal moment of change.
- Qualifications: Strategic communicator with experience in engagement strategies and adaptability.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for growth in a collaborative environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: You will work across 2 sites as required; Marlwood and Worle, with some hybrid working supported. Great communication changes culture, and great culture improves student outcomes. We are seeking our first Communications and Engagement Manager to play a pivotal role in bringing together two Multi-Academy Trusts into a single, unified Pathway Trust. This is a rare opportunity to lead communications at a defining moment of change, ensuring our merger is not only operationally successful but genuinely felt, understood, and embraced by our people and communities.
Working with Trust Leaders, and reporting to the Director of People, you will design and deliver innovative, engaging communication and engagement strategies that bring our Trust's vision, values, and educational priorities to life. Your work will build clarity, confidence, and enthusiasm across staff, Trustees, community councillors, parents, and wider stakeholders - helping everyone feel part of the Pathway Trust journey from day one.
Responsibilities:
- Places people at the heart of everything you do.
- Is a strategic thinker, capable of designing engagement strategies that align with broader organizational goals.
- Is adaptable and resilient, ready to navigate a significant period of organizational change.
- Is passionate about building trust and fostering a unified culture.
If you’re a strategic communicator who thrives in complex, high-impact environments and want to make a meaningful difference in education, we’d love to hear from you.
About Castle School Education Trust (CSET) and Pathway Trust:
Castle School Education Trust (CSET) is a vibrant family of schools united by one powerful ambition: to deliver a great education for every child. CSET is committed to equal opportunities and encourages applicants from all backgrounds and communities, as we recognise the importance and benefit this has for our pupils. Spanning four secondary and five primary schools across South Gloucestershire, we’re proud of our strong track record in school improvement, rising pupil numbers, and consistently improving outcomes. Each of our schools has a distinct identity shaped by the community it serves—and we celebrate that uniqueness while sharing expertise, resources, and support across the Trust.
You will be joining us at an exciting time, as we work collaboratively with eleven schools from TPLT in North Somerset, with an aim to join to form Pathway Trust in the future.
We can offer you:
- Commitment to CPD and development of all staff including collaborative support and instructional coaching to allow employees to thrive.
- Commitment to inclusivity and fostering of diversity.
- Values and vision that are lived not laminated.
- Open and honest culture.
- Generous Local Government pension scheme.
- Up to 30% discount with Microsoft & Dell.
- Discounted gym membership.
- Life Assurance - 3 x Death in Service.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Dedicated counselling service.
Communications and Engagement Manager employer: THE CASTLE SCHOOL
Contact Detail:
THE CASTLE SCHOOL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Communications and Engagement Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those connected to CSET and Pathway Trust. Attend events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues and share your passion for communication and engagement.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your previous work in communications and engagement. Use real examples of how you've successfully navigated change and built trust within communities—this will make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by understanding the culture and values of the Pathway Trust. Think about how your strategic thinking aligns with their goals and be ready to discuss innovative ideas that could enhance their communication strategies.
✨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 genuinely interested in being part of the Pathway Trust journey from day one.
We think you need these skills to ace Communications and Engagement Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for education and communication shine through in your application. We want to see how your values align with ours, so don’t hold back on sharing why you’re excited about this role!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills. We’re looking for someone who can design engagement strategies, so showcase any past successes in similar roles.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate a well-organised application that’s easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly and allows you to keep track of your application status. Plus, we love seeing applications come through our own platform!
How to prepare for a job interview at THE CASTLE SCHOOL
✨Know the Trust's Vision and Values
Before your interview, take some time to really understand the vision and values of the Pathway Trust. This will help you articulate how your communication strategies can align with their goals and demonstrate your commitment to fostering a unified culture.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples of past experiences where you've successfully designed and implemented engagement strategies. Be ready to discuss how these strategies not only met organisational goals but also positively impacted the community and stakeholders involved.
✨Emphasise Adaptability and Resilience
Given the significant changes happening within the Trust, it's crucial to highlight your adaptability. Share specific instances where you've navigated change effectively, showcasing your ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the Trust's future. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you.