Student Support Officer

Are you passionate about supporting young people and helping them make the most of their college experience? Do you have the confidence, communication skills and caring approach needed to make a positive difference to students’ lives?

Sandwell College is looking for a proactive and approachable Student Support Officer to join our Student Services team on a term-time only basis. This is a rewarding opportunity to help create a safe, positive and supportive learning environment where students feel encouraged to attend, engage and achieve their potential.

You’ll play a visible and important role across designated areas of the College, promoting positive behaviour, encouraging respect and responsibility, and helping students access the support they need. Working closely with colleagues, you’ll build positive relationships with learners, address concerns appropriately and help ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Responsibilities

• Help maintain a safe, positive and purposeful learning environment across designated areas of the College
• Promote the College’s 3Rs: Respect, Responsibility and Ready to Learn, encouraging students to make positive choices
• Monitor student behaviour, challenge inappropriate conduct when necessary and uphold College policies
• Monitor attendance throughout the day and report concerns to the designated Programme Achievement Manager
• Carry out regular wellbeing checks, engage with students and identify those who may need additional support
• Provide individual guidance and signpost learners to appropriate support services
• Build positive relationships with students to encourage good behaviour, attendance and respect for themselves and others
• Provide first-responder first aid support when required
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to enhance the learner experience and respond effectively to concerns

Skills & Experience

We’re looking for someone who is caring, approachable and confident, with a genuine commitment to helping students succeed along with the following;

• Recent and relevant experience in a similar role, with strong communication skills
• Experience working effectively as part of a team and maintaining high standards of service
• A commitment to supporting learners within a safe, positive and inclusive learning environment
• A learner-centred and customer-focused approach
• The ability to understand individual learner needs and communicate appropriately with people from a wide range of backgrounds
• Strong interpersonal skills and the confidence to deal professionally with students, colleagues and other stakeholders
• The ability to challenge inappropriate behaviour fairly and confidently
• The ability to provide appropriate advice and guidance to students aged 16 and over regarding their physical, emotional and educational wellbeing
• Experience supporting learners in an educational environment would be advantageous
• A First Aid at Work certificate, a relevant SIA qualification and GCSE Maths and English at grade C or above are also desirable

Why join Sandwell College?

This is an opportunity to be part of a team that makes a real difference to students’ day-to-day college experience. Your support will help learners feel safe, build confidence, develop positive habits and access the guidance they need to progress.

If you enjoy working with people, take pride in creating a welcoming environment and want to contribute to students’ success, this role offers the chance to make a meaningful impact as part of our Student Services team.

Join us

If you’re a positive, reliable and student-focused individual who believes every learner deserves the opportunity to succeed, we’d love to hear from you.

Join Sandwell College and help create an environment where students feel safe, supported and ready to learn.

Sandwell College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All employees are expected to uphold College policies, maintain confidentiality and actively promote equality, diversity and inclusion.

Benefits

Top-Tier Salaries – We offer sector-leading pay with some of the most competitive salaries around

Unbeatable Time Off – Enjoy 35-50 days of annual leave, plus 8 bank holidays AND extra time off at Christmas – because work-life balance is essential

Fast-Track Your Career – Take advantage of dedicated development days, career pathways, and talent schemes designed to help you grow and succeed

Cycle to Work Scheme – A healthier, greener, and more cost-effective way to commute

Exclusive Discounts on Onsite Services – Save on Bliss Hair & Beauty Salon, dog grooming, car health checks, and more

Fitness Perks – Enjoy our college gym facilities or discounted rates at local gyms to keep you feeling your best

Generous Pension Contributions – We invest in your future with 23.68% employer contribution for teaching roles and 21.5% for non-teaching roles

Retail & Travel Discounts – Unlock exclusive savings on high street brands, local transport, cross-country travel. UNIDAYS, Student Beans and Blue Light Discount

Free Will Writing – We’ve got your back with professional support for your future planning

Free Flu Vaccine – Stay healthy and protected at no cost to you

Wellbeing Support – Access confidential counselling services and wellness platforms to support your mental and emotional health

We Celebrate You! – We recognise and appreciate your hard work with awards, recognition events, and celebration days throughout the year