Location
Hybrid role based near the centre of Surrey at the Mansion in Leatherhead.

Hours
36 hours per week

Salary
£34,660 per annum

About the Role
We are seeking a Personal Careers Coach to join our Post 16 Transition Team, working with Children Looked After by the Local Authority. This 12-month fixed term contract involves supporting young people looked after by Surrey County Council and their guardians to secure sustained post-16 education or training destinations. You will build positive and professional relationships with young people to provide careers education, information, advice, guidance, and work-related learning, using action plans to help progress towards their goals. Engagement will include meeting young people at their homes or in the community through one-to-one or small group sessions, utilizing aptitude tests, skills assessments, psychometric testing, and personal inventories.

You will liaise with schools, further education and training providers, employers, social care, virtual school, and SEND services to support young people in identifying and progressing towards suitable education or training destinations. This includes researching careers, options, and support, staying updated on the labour market, legislation, and professional developments. The role may require visiting employers, education providers, attending relevant events, and accompanying young people to essential activities including exam results days.

The role contributes to the local authority's statutory duty to enable, assist, and encourage young people to participate in education and training up to age 18. You will support personal development and help young people navigate challenges related to relationships, home life, and academic stress.

Our offer includes 26 days’ holiday (rising to 28 days after 2 years’ service and 31 days after 5 years, prorated for part-time staff), option to buy up to 10 additional days, a generous local government pension, up to 5 days carer’s leave, 2 paid volunteering days per year, paternity, adoption and dependents leave, an Employee Assistance Programme, access to a learning and development hub, wellbeing and lifestyle discounts, and the opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of our residents.

Experience
Relevant experience or knowledge of working with children who are looked after, with evidence of recent career development. Experience delivering careers information, advice, and guidance, with good knowledge of Raising Participation Age legislation. Experience working with parents, carers, young people, and families.

About you
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with confidence in engaging parents, carers, young people, and professionals. Ability to build positive relationships and support young people through challenging issues. Willingness and ability to travel extensively around Surrey, including visits to schools, further education and training settings, and homes.

Qualifications
A good standard of education is required. A commitment to ongoing professional development and a strong understanding of the education and training landscape, including local and national developments.