At a Glance
- Tasks: Tutor S6 pupils online and on campus, helping them transition to university life.
- Company: Join the University of Edinburgh's LEAPS team, promoting higher education access.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible hours, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Supportive environment focused on professional development and widening participation.
- Why this job: Empower students and gain valuable teaching experience while pursuing your PhD.
- Qualifications: Current PhD student with strong communication and teaching skills.
The predicted salary is between 34610 - 39906 £ per year.
UE06: £34,610.00 - £39,906.00 Per Annum, Pro Rata.
Fixed Term/Guaranteed Hours: 100 hours over the 25 teaching weeks, between the months of August 2026 – March 2027. This equates to approx. 4 hours per week of the course plus training and marking.
Fixed Term Contract Dates: August 20th 2026 – April 30th 2027
Number of posts: 6
LEAPS are recruiting current PhD students who are passionate about higher education and looking for a rewarding, part-time, paid position. You will be working online and on the University of Edinburgh campus with groups of current S6 pupils to help them develop skills and confidence to become successful undergraduate students.
The LEAPS S6 Transition Course is the latest of the many initiatives in which we have worked with current university students to help students bridge the gap between school and university.
The Opportunity: To tutor students on the LEAPS S6 Transitions Course through online learning platforms and on the UoE central campus, with the aim of raising awareness and aspiration regarding Higher Education (HE) as an option, and to support students in developing the key skills required for a successful first year at a Higher Education Institution.
Employment commences in August for training, with the course teaching beginning at the end of August 2026 and running until the end of March 2027. Tutorials take place on Thursday afternoons during the teaching weeks and will alternate between in person and online sessions. Review meetings are held in April. If you are successful following interview, you MUST be available for training in August and the course induction.
Provisional Training Dates:
- Thursday 20th August (on-campus).
- Friday 21st August (online, morning only).
- Course Induction: Thurs 27th August (on-campus, 13.00-17.00)
Your skills and attributes for success:
- Currently working towards the completion of a PhD and will be a current PhD student during the course teaching period (August 26 – March 27)
- A sound understanding of the academic skills required for successful study in an HE context
- Demonstrable ability to communicate with and lead final-year school students in a friendly and student-focussed manner
- Experience of leading tutorials/labs or similar in an HE setting
- Experience of marking undergraduate work and providing feedback to students
- Excellent team and independent working skills
As a valued member of our team you can expect: An exciting, positive, creative, challenging and rewarding place to work within the Transitions Course team and the wider LEAPS team. We give you support to enhance your teaching development in a rewarding role in widening participation to higher education.
The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. We are members of the Race Equality Charter and we are also Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions, actively promoting LGBT equality.
If invited for interview you will be required to evidence your right to work in the UK. Further information is available on our right to work webpages. On this occasion the University will not consider applicants requiring sponsorship for this role. International workers will therefore only be able to take up this role if they can demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.
How to apply: To apply, please submit a CV and Cover Letter outlining what you would bring to the role. The Cover Letter must also include one paragraph giving an example of how you would support LEAPS students to develop discussion skills in a tutorial setting (in-person and online) to help prepare them for their transition into university. Keep in mind that these are final-year school students who will be experiencing university tutorials for the first time. Note that we expect the CV and statement to be wholly the work of applicants and not prepared using AI tools.
The deadline for applications is Wednesday 10th June 2026. Interviews are scheduled to take place on the 9th and 10th July 2026. Please note that while we will get back to all applicants with the outcome of applications, if you have not been invited to interview by the 2nd July you have not been shortlisted on this occasion.
LEAPS Transitions Tutor in Edinburgh employer: University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh offers a dynamic and supportive environment for PhD students looking to make a meaningful impact in higher education as a LEAPS Transitions Tutor. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, the university fosters a culture of collaboration and professional growth, providing valuable training and development opportunities that empower tutors to inspire the next generation of undergraduate students. Located in the vibrant city of Edinburgh, this role not only allows you to contribute to widening participation in higher education but also to engage with a community dedicated to academic excellence and social equity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land LEAPS Transitions Tutor in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the LEAPS programme inside out! Familiarise yourself with their mission and values, so you can show your passion for helping students transition to higher education during interviews. This will help us stand out as a candidate who truly understands the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be working with final-year school students, it's crucial to demonstrate how you can engage and support them. Try role-playing scenarios or even tutoring friends to build your confidence before the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or past LEAPS tutors if you can! They can provide insider tips on what to expect and how to impress during the interview process. Plus, it shows your commitment to the role and willingness to learn from others.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Make sure your CV and cover letter highlight your relevant experience and how you can contribute to the LEAPS team. We want to see your enthusiasm shine through!
We think you need these skills to ace LEAPS Transitions Tutor in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Personalised Cover Letter:When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor it specifically for the LEAPS Transitions Tutor role. Highlight your passion for higher education and how your experiences align with the job description. We want to see your personality shine through!
Showcase Your Teaching Experience:In your CV, emphasise any relevant teaching or tutoring experience you have, especially with final-year school students. We’re looking for someone who can connect with them and help them transition smoothly into university life.
Include Specific Examples:Don’t just tell us you can support students; show us how! In your cover letter, include a paragraph detailing a specific example of how you would help LEAPS students develop their discussion skills. This will demonstrate your understanding of their needs.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Edinburgh
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, take some time to understand the LEAPS programme and its objectives. Familiarise yourself with the challenges that S6 pupils face when transitioning to higher education. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in supporting these students.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Style
Prepare to discuss your teaching philosophy and how you engage students in a tutorial setting. Think of specific examples from your experience where you've successfully led discussions or tutorials, especially with younger students. Highlight your ability to create a friendly and supportive environment.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations with students. For instance, how would you encourage a shy student to participate in discussions? Practising your responses to these types of questions can help you feel more confident during the interview.
✨Prepare Your Own Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful queries about the LEAPS programme, the team you'll be working with, or the training process. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you determine if it's the right fit for you.
