Location
London Borough of Islington

Hours
Full Time - 35 hours per week

Salary
£54,360 per annum

About the Role
Are you passionate about improving outcomes for young people and tackling inequality? We are seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Progress Advisor to lead a team supporting young people aged 16–18 who are at risk of becoming, or who are, not in education, employment or training (NEET). This role combines operational leadership with direct oversight of targeted interventions, progression planning, participation tracking and partnership working with schools, colleges, training providers and community organisations. The successful candidate will play a key role in helping the Council meet its statutory duties to encourage, enable and assist young people to participate in education, employment and training, while driving improved progression outcomes for some of Islington’s most vulnerable residents. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with strong leadership, case management and partnership skills who is committed to making a lasting difference to the lives of young people.

Benefits
Islington is a place rich with diversity and culture. As a council, our sense of purpose couldn’t be clearer: we serve. We are committed to challenging inequality in the borough and as one of the largest employers we know that to look after the place and the planet, we have to look after our people. Together we can change the future. We are determined to create a more equal Islington, where everyone who lives here has an equal chance to thrive. Everyone who works at Islington Council lives by a set of values which guide us in everything that we do: collaborative, ambitious, resourceful, and empowering (CARE). Our staff benefits include:
- Up to 31 days leave per year, increasing to 36 days after five years of local government service
- A range of flexible working arrangements to maintain a healthy work-life balance, as well as a 35-hour working week
- Learning and development opportunities to maximise your potential
- Competitive pay and a commitment to paying all staff the London Living Wage at minimum
- Excellent local government pension scheme
- Cycle to Work scheme and discounted gym memberships
- Local discounts from restaurants, shops, health and beauty therapists, and more!

Workforce Equality, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement
We are dedicated to creating an inclusive and equitable workforce, where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Our workforce strategy places equality, equity, diversity, and inclusion at the heart of everything we do, reaffirming our commitment to fostering a culture of inclusion. We strive to create an environment where all colleagues feel they belong and can safely express their thoughts, ideas, and challenges without fear of judgement or discrimination. We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to any unlawful discrimination, harassment, or victimisation on the grounds of any protected characteristics under the 2010 Equality Act, including but not limited to race, disability, sexual orientation, sex, religion and belief, age, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy, and maternity. Any incidents of discrimination will be promptly investigated and addressed in line with our HR policies to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all colleagues. We use data to identify and address disparities, ensuring that our policies and practices are transparent and impactful in promoting diverse representation of backgrounds and perspectives at all levels of the organisation. We look at inequality through an intersectional lens, recognising that different aspects of someone’s identity can combine to create unique experiences of discrimination and disadvantage. We know that advancing diversity and inclusion is a continuous journey, and we must listen to our colleagues and learn where we can further improve. We work closely with our Colleague Forums and Trade Unions, supported by active allies from our Corporate Management Team, to monitor and evaluate our practices, identify barriers, and empower colleagues to promote equality and inclusion in the workplace. Every one of us has a role to play in making Islington Council a truly inclusive workplace. By living out our CARE (collaborative, ambitious, resourceful, and empowering) values every day and embedding the principles of equality, equity, diversity, and inclusion in our work, we can all actively contribute to empowering people and creating a more equal Islington.

Pre-Employment Checks
Any offer of employment will be subject to the successful completion of required pre-employment checks. These may include:
- Proof of address
- Evidence of any name changes (if applicable)
- Right to work in the UK
- Overseas criminal record check (if applicable)
- Satisfactory references
- Occupational Health clearance
- Evidence of professional qualifications or registrations
- DBS check at the appropriate level (if applicable)

Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Some posts are subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service. The post is subject to an enhanced DBS check with children/adult barred list, qualifications check and 3/5 years referencing.

Disability Confident Scheme
Islington Council operates a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria and is committed to providing support to applicants who request reasonable adjustments to be made during the recruitment process and throughout their career with us.

Experience
Proven experience in leadership, case management and partnership working, particularly with young people aged 16–18 who are at risk of becoming or are NEET. Experience in managing targeted interventions, progression planning and participation tracking is essential.

About you
You are passionate about tackling inequality and improving outcomes for vulnerable young people. You have strong leadership skills, are resourceful and collaborative, and committed to making a lasting difference. You are able to work effectively with a range of partners including schools, colleges, training providers and community organisations. You demonstrate a commitment to equality, equity, diversity and inclusion in your work.

Qualifications
Relevant professional qualifications or experience in education, youth work, social care or related fields are desirable. You must be able to successfully complete all required pre-employment checks including DBS clearance.