At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage the Department of Social Work, Counselling and Social Care at UEL.
- Company: Join the University of East London, a pioneer in careers-first education since 1898.
- Benefits: Enjoy 35 days holiday, hybrid working, and a competitive salary with great perks.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community committed to positive change and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on future leaders in social care and education.
- Qualifications: Doctoral-level qualifications and leadership experience in higher education required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Founded in 1898, we at the University of East London (UEL) are proud to change lives through education. Our goal is to advance industry 5.0 careers-first education and provide a clear path to the jobs and opportunities of the future. We’re committed to driving diversity in the 5.0 talent pipeline, working in partnership to promote talent wherever it is found and creating a balanced, inclusive, and green future.
About the School
The School of Childhood and Social Care brings together expertise across psychology, education, counselling, social work, and international relations to improve lives across East London and beyond. Our three academic departments are:
- Social Work
- Counselling and Social Care
- Psychology and Human Development
- Education
The School educates the next generation of educators, psychologists, social workers, counsellors and community leaders, delivering research-informed and practice-based education that is grounded in social justice. Key achievements include:
- Outstanding Ofsted ratings for teacher education
- 1 in 10 teachers and 1 in 10 social workers in London are educated at the University of East London, and 1 in 6 students studying early childhood are on courses in our School
- Top 500 global ranking in psychology (THE)
- World-leading research in early years development (The Institute for the Science of Early Years and Youth)
About the Department of Social Work, Counselling and Social Care
The department includes three subject areas, or ‘clusters’, and the following courses: BSc Counselling, MA Counselling and Psychotherapy, MSc/MA Counselling and Coaching (all of our counselling courses are accredited by the BACP), BA Social Work, BA Youth Work, MA Youth and Community Work, MA Social Work (all of our Social Work courses are accredited by Social Work England), BA Psychosocial Studies, BA Politics and International Relations, and MSc NGO and Development Management. An exciting range of new university-based courses and new apprenticeships are currently in development at both undergraduate and postgraduate level.
Our aim is to have clear pathways for applicants at a wide range of starting points, including the School’s New Beginnings course, up to Doctoral level and professional accreditation. Our teaching embeds critical thinking, real-life case applications, and skills aligned with professional roles in social care. In 2026, our students will have access to placements, and the opportunity to set up peer support groups aligned with their developing expertise, in our Community Counselling Service in the UEL Neighbourhood Health Hub.
Research conducted by staff in the department is explicitly grounded in the needs of our local communities and at-risk populations. We aim to do the work that can be best done in our location. Our research regularly influences public health practice, national policy, and international debates on social and community care, mental health and wellbeing, and inclusion/access to justice for minoritised/marginalised groups.
About the Job
The role will involve leading and managing the Department of Social Work, Counselling and Social Care, delivering excellence across the full portfolio of academic programmes and activities, within the context of the operational and strategic development of the School, and in support of the achievement of the School’s KPIs and UEL’s Vision 2028. As Head of Department, you will be part of the School’s Executive Team. You will work closely with our Director of Education and Experience, Director of Impact and Innovation, Director of Career and Enterprise, Marketing Officer, EDI Lead, and School Quality Leaders, as well as with the Vice Dean and Executive Dean of School, to create an outstanding student experience within an impactful research environment.
About You
You will have:
- A doctoral-level and/or professional qualifications and relevant experience, and evidence of scholarship in the form of recent publications
- Evidence of leadership and management of course team(s) in higher education including experience of curriculum development and management of relevant programmes; development of practice-based learning and authentic assessment strategies; and risk management
- Experience of validation, quality assurance and review with students, professional bodies and employers
- Ability to engage in strategic planning that leads to growth
- Excellent organisational, communication and interpersonal skills, an ability to work and deliver against deadlines, and to motivate and develop others
- Demonstrate an understanding of equal opportunities issues within a diverse and multicultural environment
Benefits Package
Here at UEL we understand it’s about more than just a salary. It’s about the entire package on offer along with our outstanding work environment and inclusive culture. We know the market rates for this vacancy and will offer a genuinely competitive salary DOE. We care deeply about your wellbeing and our benefits include:
- 31.08% to 35.38% pension (7.4% to 11.7% from you, depending on your grade, 23.68% from us)
- 35 days holiday (plus 3 days over Christmas) plus bank holidays
- Hybrid working for most positions, and we’re always open to consider flexible working arrangements
- Subsidised gym membership
- 3 times base salary life assurance
- A cashback healthcare scheme
- A wide variety of other generous benefits including discounts on Apple and Samsung products, holidays, clothing, fitness, lifestyle, dining out and weekly shopping
So, if you’d like to take your career to the next level with us here at the University of East London and are inspired by our environment and commit to success, we want you to apply today!
The Interview Process will also include a pre-screening process, an informal conversation with Dr Sophia Bokhari, the Vice Dean of the School. CVs without a completed application form will not be accepted. At UEL we are committed to working together to build a community which values diversity in both our staff and student populations, is representative and inclusive, enabling all to progress and thrive.
Head of Department employer: University of East London
The University of East London (UEL) is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With a commitment to diversity and social justice, UEL provides generous benefits including a competitive salary, extensive holiday allowance, and opportunities for hybrid and flexible working arrangements, all within a supportive community dedicated to advancing education and making a positive impact in the local area.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Department
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at UEL on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching UEL’s values and recent achievements. Show us how your vision aligns with our commitment to diversity and innovation in education.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your leadership style and how you plan to enhance the student experience. We want to hear your ideas on fostering an inclusive environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our community.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Department
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for education and social care shine through. We want to see how your values align with our mission at UEL, so don’t hold back on sharing your passion for making a positive impact!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We’re looking for specific examples of your leadership and management abilities, so be clear and concise!
Be Authentic:We appreciate authenticity! Share your unique perspective and experiences that have shaped your approach to education and community work. This will help us get to know the real you and how you can contribute to our diverse team.
Follow the Application Process:Remember, we need a completed application form along with your CV. Make sure to apply through our website to ensure your application is considered. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of East London
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and challenges in social work, counselling, and education. Familiarise yourself with UEL’s mission and values, especially their commitment to diversity and community impact. This will show that you’re not just interested in the role, but also in how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of your past leadership experiences, particularly in higher education. Think about times when you’ve successfully managed teams, developed curricula, or implemented innovative strategies. Be ready to discuss how you can lead the Department of Social Work, Counselling and Social Care towards excellence.
✨Engage in Strategic Thinking
Demonstrate your ability to think strategically by discussing your vision for the department. Consider how you would approach growth, quality assurance, and student engagement. This is your chance to show that you can align with UEL’s Vision 2028 and contribute to its future.
✨Be Yourself
Don’t forget to let your personality shine through! UEL values a diverse and inclusive environment, so be authentic in your responses. Share your passion for education and community service, and how you envision fostering an inclusive atmosphere within the department.
