At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead health and safety initiatives to create safe environments for young people.
- Company: Join the Witherslack Group, a leader in special education and care.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, 35 days holiday, and ongoing training.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable young people every day.
- Qualifications: Experience in health and safety with relevant qualifications like NEBOSH.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 44000 £ per year.
Do you have knowledge and understanding of health and safety risks in education, care, or a similar, people-focussed sector? Are you ready to use your passion and expertise to influence health and safety across a growing organisation, supporting our teams to create safe and healthy environments and create brighter futures?
This is your opportunity to play a key role in supporting our sector leading educational and residential homes to develop a positive and proactive health and safety culture. As a Health and Safety Compliance Lead, you’ll provide training, guidance, and advice to ensure we create safe and healthy environments for everyone whilst allowing our young people to experience a range of activities that support their development.
You will:
- Act as a ‘Competent Person’ for health and safety across the Group
- Carry out audits, visits and investigations to identify and support the management of risk
- Provide guidance, training, and advice to colleagues at all levels
- Help develop and implement health and safety policies, procedures, and training programmes
- Support our accredited ISO 45001 management system and drive continuous improvement
Your expertise will help our teams feel confident in managing risk, while ensuring we continue to meet our legal, regulatory and organisational responsibilities. Whether you’re investigating an incident, completing an audit, delivering training or helping develop a new approach to managing risk, your work will have a direct impact on the safety and wellbeing of our people and young people.
You’ll work as part of our Group Health and Safety Team and Quality Assurance department, providing practical and pragmatic health and safety expertise across group settings. You’ll work closely with colleagues across our schools, homes, and central teams to ensure risks are effectively managed and that our policies, procedures and controls are working as they should.
You’ll also contribute to the development and implementation of health and safety policies, procedures and training frameworks, ensuring they are practical, effective and appropriate for our unique care and learning environments. You’ll help maintain our ISO 45001 accreditation and support the continued development of our health and safety management systems.
Training and communication will be a key part of the role, with much of this being one to one or small groups. You’ll design, prepare and deliver engaging health and safety training, helping colleagues understand their responsibilities and giving them the knowledge and confidence to manage safety effectively.
You’ll also have the opportunity to contribute to our ongoing proactive work programme and wider improvement initiatives, sharing best practice and helping shape the future of health and safety across the Witherslack Group.
You’ll already have experience working in a health and safety role, with a strong understanding of health and safety legislation, risk management and compliance. You’ll be confident carrying out audits or inspections, investigating incidents and providing practical advice to colleagues across multiple sites.
You’ll also have:
- A relevant qualification, such as a NEBOSH General Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health (or equivalent), with a strong understanding of health and safety legislation and risk assessment processes
- Proven health and safety experience, ideally including audits, inspections and compliance across multiple sites
- Strong communication and training skills, with the confidence to engage and influence colleagues at all levels
- Excellent organisation and attention to detail, with the ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines and maintain accurate records
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify risks, understand their causes and develop practical solutions
- Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office and the ability to work confidently with digital systems and information
- A full UK driving licence, with a willingness to travel regularly across the UK, including occasional overnight stays
- Experience of ISO 45001, fire safety, or additional health and safety qualifications would be advantageous.
This role calls for more than technical expertise. We’re looking for someone who is self-motivated, resilient and passionate about making a difference. You’ll be comfortable working independently while also being a strong team player, with the confidence to influence, challenge and support others in a professional and constructive way.
What we do for you:
- £36,000 - £44,000 depending on qualifications and experience
- Hybrid/ Home base working, with UK-wide travel and some overnight stays required
- Ongoing training and continued professional development
- 35 days holiday (including bank holidays)
- Flexible benefits package meaning you can increase/decrease your holiday allowance, pension and life insurance
- Wellbeing with a host of wellbeing tools and advice including employee assistance
- Medical cover so you can claim back the cost of things like an opticians or dentist appointment and a host of high-street discounts
- Beautiful working environments with the very best facilities
- A recommend a friend scheme that offers a £1,000 bonus every time
The Witherslack Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of its young people. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check (we will cover the cost). We are an equal opportunities employer welcoming applications from all sections of the community.
Health and Safety Compliance Lead in Oxford employer: Witherslack Group
At Queensmead House School, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture where every team member plays a vital role in shaping the future of our young people. Located in a stunning historic setting with views of Windsor Castle, we provide extensive training, generous holiday allowances, and a comprehensive benefits package that prioritises your wellbeing and professional growth. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a rewarding environment that values diversity and encourages you to bring your whole self to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Health and Safety Compliance Lead in Oxford
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
Join local community health events or volunteer for organisations like public health agencies. This not only builds your experience but also helps you network with industry professionals who might know of openings at places like Witherslack Group.
✨Tap into Professional Associations
Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
✨Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at Witherslack Group.
✨Apply Through Our Website for Better Visibility
When you find roles that excite you, especially at places like Witherslack Group, don’t forget to apply through our website. This can sometimes give you an edge by showing the employer you’re savvy and committed to finding the right fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Health and Safety Compliance Lead in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at Witherslack Group.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at Witherslack Group.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to Witherslack Group. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at Witherslack Group. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Witherslack Group
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research Witherslack Group’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
