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 social justice and positive change.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on future generations while advancing your career in an inclusive environment.
- 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. We have a subsidised gym membership, 3 times base salary life assurance, a cashback healthcare scheme and 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 in London employer: University of East London
The University of East London (UEL) is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, dedicated to advancing education and social justice. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, UEL offers a competitive benefits package, including generous holiday allowances, hybrid working options, and professional development opportunities, all within a supportive community that values diversity and innovation. Joining UEL means being part of a forward-thinking institution that not only shapes the future of education but also positively impacts the local community and beyond.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Department in London
✨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 maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching UEL’s recent projects and initiatives. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about our mission to drive diversity and innovation in education.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially around leadership and management. We want to see how you can lead our department and contribute to our vision, so be ready to share your experiences!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows us that you’re genuinely interested in joining our community at UEL.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Department in London
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 to create positive change in the community.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We love seeing how you can contribute to our diverse and inclusive environment!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to understand your qualifications and vision for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and gives you a chance to showcase your commitment to joining our community.
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 social care. Familiarise yourself with UEL’s mission and how your vision aligns with their goals for industry 5.0 careers-first education.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of your past leadership experiences, especially in higher education. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed course teams, developed curricula, and implemented innovative assessment strategies.
✨Engage with the Community
Demonstrate your understanding of the local community's needs and how your research can influence public health practices. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to social justice and inclusion.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the department's future direction and how you can contribute to its success. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if UEL is the right fit for you.
