At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to provide top-notch student support services at our Brighton campus.
- Company: Join WaterBear, a pioneering music college redefining music education for aspiring musicians.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive environment, professional development opportunities, and a focus on wellbeing and creativity.
- Other info: Position starts on 1st September 2025; apply by 13 July 2025.
- Why this job: Shape the student experience in a vibrant, inclusive community while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in student support, strong leadership skills, and a passion for student wellbeing required.
The predicted salary is between 27500 - 39000 £ per year.
Join WaterBear – The College of Music. WaterBear is a pioneering music college with campuses in Brighton, Sheffield and Online. As a College of Falmouth University, we offer a unique, flexible approach to music education, supporting a diverse student body of aspiring and professional musicians.
We are now seeking a Student Services Manager to lead our student support provision and help shape the student experience at our Brighton campus.
Location: Brighton
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week
Salary: £33,000 per annum
Start Date: 1st September 2025
Reports to: Head of Education (Brighton)
About the Role
As Student Services Manager, you will lead a dedicated team to deliver high-quality student support services, including wellbeing, learning support, safeguarding, and academic study support. You’ll play a key role in fostering a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment for all students.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage student support services across campus
- Oversee wellbeing, learning support, and counselling provision
- Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead and manage safeguarding protocols
- Collaborate with academic and support teams to enhance student engagement and retention
- Design and evaluate support programmes using data and feedback
- Manage team performance, training, and development
- Ensure compliance with relevant policies and regulations
Person Specification
Essential:
- 3+ years’ experience in student support within higher education
- Proven leadership in managing student services teams
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organisational skills
- Strong initiative, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities
- Commitment to inclusivity, empathy, and student wellbeing
Desirable:
- Understanding of the music industry or creative portfolio careers
- Experience supporting diverse or non-traditional learners
- Mental health first aid or trauma-informed care training
- Experience in liaising with external agencies (e.g. council services, police, mental health teams)
Preferred Qualifications:
- Relevant Master’s or BA (hons) degree
- Relevant wellbeing, counselling or learning support qualification
Why Join WaterBear?
- Be part of a growing, innovative institution shaping the future of music education
- Work in a supportive, student-centred environment
- Opportunities for professional development and coaching
- Help build a culture that values wellbeing, creativity, and collaboration
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role. Closing Date: 13 July 2025. We reserve the right to close the application process early if we receive sufficient applications.
Student Services Manager in Brighton employer: WaterBear | The College of Music
WaterBear is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises student wellbeing and creativity. As a Student Services Manager at our Brighton campus, you will have the opportunity to lead a dedicated team in shaping a supportive environment for aspiring musicians, while benefiting from professional development opportunities and being part of a pioneering institution in music education.
Contact Details:
WaterBear | The College of Music Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Student Services Manager in Brighton
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students in a music college. Understanding the unique challenges they face can help you demonstrate your commitment to their wellbeing during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the higher education sector, especially those involved in student services. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others who can provide insights and potentially refer you to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing any previous experience managing teams or projects. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully improved student support services in past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Research WaterBear's values and mission. Tailor your approach to align with their focus on inclusivity and creativity, demonstrating how you can contribute to fostering a supportive environment for all students.
We think you need these skills to ace Student Services Manager in Brighton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and requirements for the Student Services Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with their needs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, clearly outline your relevant experience in student support and leadership. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in managing teams and enhancing student engagement.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Ensure your CV showcases your 3+ years of experience in student support within higher education. Include any specific achievements or initiatives you've led that relate to wellbeing, learning support, or safeguarding.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at WaterBear | The College of Music
✨Show Your Passion for Student Support
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for student services and how you can contribute to enhancing the student experience. Share specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your commitment to student wellbeing and support.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
Since the role requires leading a team, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and any relevant experiences. Talk about how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on your ability to motivate and develop others.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss scenarios where you've had to solve complex issues related to student support. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and showcase your decision-making abilities.
✨Understand the Music Education Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the music industry and the unique challenges faced by students in this field. Showing that you understand the context of the role will help you stand out as a candidate who is genuinely interested in the position.
