Whole School Careers and Higher Education Lead
Aspirational for its pupils.’ Ofsted, 2024
Whole School Careers and Higher Education Lead
Full time, term time only (plus 4 additional weeks)
OPGS Band 9 – (£32,933-37,188 FTE)
Start Date: September 2025
We’re looking for a motivated and experienced Careers and Higher Education Lead to drive our whole-school CEIAG strategy and support students through UCAS, Oxbridge, apprenticeships, and beyond.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the full UCAS application process and Oxbridge/Early Entry preparation
- Organising student finance support and HE visits
- Coordinating work experience, enrichment activities, and external careers services
- Managing platforms like Unifrog and running the annual Careers Fair
- Supporting the transition from Year 11 to Sixth Form
What We’re Looking For
We’re looking for someone who is:
- Knowledgeable in post-16 and post-18 pathways including UCAS and apprenticeships
- Experienced in working with secondary or post-16 students
- An excellent communicator with strong organisational skills
- Student-focused and inspiring
- Familiarity with Unifrog and the Gatsby Benchmarks
- Experience supporting Oxbridge/early entry applicants
What we offer:
- A supportive, collaborative, and forward-thinking staff team
- Opportunities for ongoing professional development
- Flexible working when required
- A generous pension scheme
- The chance to make a real impact in students’ futures
To apply, please send your completed application form and covering letter to the Headteacher, via Mrs J Nichol at jnichol@opgs.org by the closing date of 19th May 2025.
Applications will only be accepted on the school application form: CVs and other forms are not accepted.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy if a suitable candidate is appointed.
OPGS is committed to creating an inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from all individuals regardless of background, identity, or personal circumstances, and we actively promote equality of opportunity for all.
OPGS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check will be required for the successful candidate.