At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and coordinate volunteer projects to promote reading and writing in the community.
- Company: Empowering organisation focused on improving literacy and life skills.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension contributions, and health benefits.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a positive, inclusive culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives through the power of words.
- Qualifications: Experience in recruiting and training volunteers, with knowledge of literacy issues.
£26,000 per year
Full-time, 35 hours per week
Fixed-term contract until March 2027
Based in Swindon as a home working role
Our client empowers people with the skills they need to succeed in life. Together, they're helping people change their stories. You could join them to support work with volunteers across Swindon.
What you’ll be doing
Our client’s project identifies, trains and supports volunteers who work with them to design new and exciting ways to promote reading and writing in their community. Our client is looking for an enthusiastic and organised individual to support and coordinate their work in Swindon. Working alongside colleagues at Swindon Borough Council and the national communities team, you will develop new strategies for recruiting volunteers and mobilising key community partnerships to increase reach and build sustainability. You will also organise and deliver training events and maintain regular contact with volunteers, gather data, share learning and develop case studies to build an evidence base of impact. This will include the development and coordination of a community-based early years project focused on improving home reading habits amongst families with young children. You will be based in Swindon, working from home with regular travel locally, as well as national travel when necessary. This will include coming to London three times per year for regular staff days, as well as induction, and three team days per year that take place in other locations. All travel expenses will be covered. This role is also suitable for secondment from an appropriate local partner.
What our client is looking for
You will be experienced in recruiting, training and supporting volunteers, and providing project support in a charity or educational context. You will have excellent knowledge of reading and writing issues, working with early years settings, schools and community-based organisations, coupled with experience of developing resources and training materials. You will need to live in, or within easy access of, the local area in which you will be working and have an excellent understanding of the community and its families. Due to the nature of delivery, you will need a full clean driving licence and access to your own vehicle. This role will also involve managing book stocks and other resources. This role is also subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check in line with our client’s safeguarding policy and safer recruitment procedures.
Why our client’s work is so vital
Reading and writing change everything. They give you the tools to get the most out of life, and the power to shape your future. They’re the key to knowledge, confidence and inspiration. They’re better results at school, and better jobs. If children grow up without the tools to communicate, without books to read or opportunities to write, it’s harder to get where you want to go. Our client helps people overcome these challenges and change their life chances through the power of words – reading, writing, speaking and listening. From first words, through school days to training, jobs and beyond.
- They work collaboratively in local communities, focusing their work in areas of the UK that are facing the biggest challenges.
- They support schools, developing the most effective tools and techniques and providing resources and programmes to engage and inspire children.
- They campaign to make reading and writing a priority for politicians and decision-makers.
- They support vulnerable adults, people in the criminal justice system and young offenders’ institutions to build their skills.
What our client offers you
Our client’s team are passionate about their mission, and have a strong and positive working culture, based on shared values and respect. They offer a range of flexible working options and promote a workplace where you can be yourself and contribute to their success, whoever you are. As well as a competitive salary, they offer benefits including a generous leave allowance totalling 39 days (including bank holidays and office closure between Christmas and New Year), pension contributions of 8% of annual salary, a cycle to work scheme, employee assistance programme and other health and wellbeing benefits.
Application details
Our client’s people are their most important asset, and they value and respect diversity in all its forms (seen and unseen). They particularly welcome applications from those from Black and Asian backgrounds, as well as candidates with disabilities and from the communities in which they work. They would like to increase the representation of these groups among their staff, as they know greater diversity will lead to an even greater impact for their work. To apply, select the Apply button shown.
Closing date: 10am, Wednesday 24 June 2026. Please note, our client does not accept CVs. No agencies or recruitment sites.
Project Officer in New Town employer: Webrecruit
Our client is an exceptional employer, dedicated to empowering individuals through literacy and community engagement. With a strong focus on employee well-being, they offer generous leave allowances, flexible working options, and a supportive culture that values diversity and collaboration. Located in Swindon, this role provides the unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in local communities while enjoying comprehensive benefits and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Officer in New Town
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation inside out! Research their mission, values, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your approach and show them you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for standing out in the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to volunteer recruitment and community engagement. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your skills and enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your appreciation and keeping you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate your passion for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Officer in New Town
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, take a good look at the job description. Make sure you understand what our client is looking for in a Project Officer. Highlight key skills and experiences that match your background.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We want to see how your unique experiences align with the role. Use specific examples from your past work with volunteers or community projects to show why you're the perfect fit.
Show Your Passion for Reading and Writing:Our client is all about empowering people through literacy. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for reading and writing in your application. Share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your commitment to this cause.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only accept applications through our website, so make sure to submit yours there. It’s super easy, and you’ll be one step closer to joining a fantastic team dedicated to making a difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Webrecruit
✨Know the Mission
Before your interview, take some time to really understand the mission of the organisation. They focus on empowering people through reading and writing, so think about how your experiences align with this goal. Be ready to share personal stories that demonstrate your passion for literacy and community engagement.
✨Showcase Your Volunteer Experience
Since the role involves recruiting and supporting volunteers, come prepared to discuss your previous experiences in this area. Highlight specific examples where you successfully trained or managed volunteers, and how you motivated them to achieve their goals. This will show that you have the practical skills they’re looking for.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to work with diverse communities. Think about challenges you’ve faced in past roles and how you overcame them. Practising these responses can help you feel more confident during the interview.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about their current projects, volunteer recruitment strategies, or how they measure the impact of their initiatives. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you determine if it’s the right fit for you.
