FE Student Pastoral Support and Engagement Officer

FE Student Pastoral Support and Engagement Officer

Salary £24,522

Close date 13/08/2026

Interview Date:
Friday 21 August 2026

The Role

The College is looking to appoint a dynamic, flexible and pro-active individual, responsible for student pastoral support needs and providing effective interventions for students that disengage with their studies.

The focus of this role is to support positive student engagement (both young people and adults) and to identity and resolve barriers to positive attendance, retention and achievement.

As a key member of the Student Support and Experience Team, you will take responsibility for providing timely interventions and support teaching and support colleagues to effectively safeguarded students and determine strategies to address pastoral and engagement issues, including maximising external agency support and outreach services.

You will champion pastoral themes and provide an engaging prevention and early help offer as part of a centralised Pastoral Hub.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for someone who demonstrates excellent initiative, with strong communication skills and the ability to build effective relationships with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. You will bring experience of working with hard-to-engage individuals and have a strong understanding of the challenges and barriers that can impact young people s educational achievement.

The successful candidate will have extensive experience working with vulnerable adults and a proven ability to motivate individuals, supporting positive engagement and encouraging changes in attitude and behaviour. You will be confident in developing robust engagement and participation plans, alongside using data effectively to monitor progress, evaluate impact, and inform interventions.

What makes Blackburn College an Employer of choice?

You'll have access to a wide range of benefits and support, including, but not limited to:

• Employee Assistance Programme with a 24/7/365 helpline for advice and support
• Regular Staff Physical Activity Sessions and reduced-price gym membership
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Discounted Bus Travel with the Transdev Commuter Club
• Family-friendly policies
• Free eye tests and contribution to VDU-use-only glasses
• Several food outlets with a variety of menu choices
• A full range of discounted professional Hair & Beauty services provided by the Academy Salon
• Professional bakery offering a variety of fresh breads, cakes, and ready meals

Blackburn College values diversity and is committed to create a diverse workforce. Blackburn College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Appointments are subject to a variety of pre-employment checks, including satisfactory references, medical clearance, and an enhanced DBS check.

Applications from candidates who have previously applied will not be considered.