Head of University Pathways (Stamford School)

Job summary

Develop and lead a sector-leading university pathways programme that provides students aged 11–18 with guidance, university exposure, and opportunities to explore a wide range of future options. Build awareness of the programme among stakeholders and use alumni, governors, businesses, and external organisations to provide relevant advice and opportunities.

Job details

About Us Stamford School is a large, co-educational day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 2 to 18. Established in 1532, it has a prestigious heritage, but everything we do is focused on preparing young people to lead happy and fulfilling lives in the 21st century. Stamford is a family-friendly, inclusive, happy school with a deep sense of community and belonging. Our students are famously ‘rounded and grounded’, and we have a broad social mix that our parents greatly value. We strive to provide a stimulating and challenging curriculum that inspires intellectual curiosity and encourages a love of learning. Stamford strives to offer an outstanding, contemporary education. Our students leave us with a flexible, adaptable mindset and an approach to learning that equips them to face the challenges and opportunities of their future. We also believe that a student’s emotional well-being is paramount to their overall success. Our pastoral care system is embedded in our daily school life, ensuring that every student feels valued, supported, and understood. We foster strong relationships between students, teachers, and parents, promoting open communication and a sense of belonging within our school community. We are proud to offer a well-rounded education packed with opportunities beyond the classroom. Job Description The Head of University Pathways will develop an inspiring programme that provides exceptional advice to students of all ages, not just in the Sixth Form, whatever their aspirations, and will establish a provision that will be recognised as sector-leading. It will expose students to varied and diverse opportunities and will equip them with the skills to make the best decisions about their own futures. They will be key in providing opportunities for students to get to know the university sector and encourage students to set high aspirations for themselves via University taster days and workshops. This will involve using the extensive alumni network, Governors and local businesses and organisations. The Head of University Pathways is responsible for ensuring the Pathways programme is known and understood by all stakeholders and that they are aware of all the opportunities available, including those that may not have traditionally been considered. This is envisaged as a non-teaching role so that sufficient time and space is available to develop the programme fully and effectively. It may suit someone who has had experience co-ordinating careers alongside a teaching timetable but is now looking to have a more careers-focussed role. Essential Criteria Careers Leader Qualification, or a willingness to study for, at a minimum of QCF Level 6/7 as recognised by the CDI (Careers Development Institute). Experience of supporting students across the full 11-18 range. Experience of the UK and overseas university landscape. Evidence of recent and relevant Continuing Professional Development including a secure knowledge of the Gatsby Benchmarks. Command respect and credibility through the discharge of their duties and use their expertise to influence others in relation to their subject. Have high expectations for students, setting realistic but challenging targets engendering students who are enthusiastic and highly motivated to continue with their education beyond school. Demonstrate a good knowledge and understanding of the statutory guidance around careers provision including policy, legal frameworks and making informed use of research and inspection findings. Experience of organising team documents, plans of data analysis, target setting, monitoring, evaluation and review. Experience of interviewing, guiding and supporting students on university-related issues. Experience of developing networks with outside agencies, alumni and the business world so as to provide up-to-date advice, support, guidance and opportunities for students. Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing, with Senior Leadership, staff, students, parents, governors, external agencies and the wider community. Desirable Criteria An honours degree in an academic subject is desirable but not essential. Application Details The closing date for applications is Sunday 8th November 2026. Further details can be found in the applicant pack attached in the documents section at the bottom of the page. To apply, please click on the green apply now button. Stamford Schools are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Documents Records per page: 5 10 20 30 40 50 100 200 Export Excel Word Document Name Please wait while the data is loading.. Document Name Please wait while the data is loading.. Future Job Opportunities

What you’ll do

Develop and lead a sector-leading university pathways programme that provides students aged 11–18 with guidance, university exposure, and opportunities to explore a wide range of future options. Build awareness of the programme among stakeholders and use alumni, governors, businesses, and external organisations to provide relevant advice and opportunities.

Requirements

Candidates need a Careers Leader qualification at QCF Level 6/7 or a willingness to study for one, experience supporting students aged 11–18, and knowledge of UK and overseas universities, careers guidance requirements, and the Gatsby Benchmarks. They should also have experience advising students on university matters, analysing data and evaluating provision, developing external networks, and communicating effectively with a broad range of stakeholders; an honours degree is desirable but not essential.

Listed skills

• Data analysis · Preferred

Other relevant skills

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• University Guidance
• Careers Guidance
• Student Interviewing
• Programme Development
• University Sector Knowledge
• Careers Policy and Legal Frameworks
• Gatsby Benchmarks
• Data Analysis
• Target Setting
• Monitoring and Evaluation
• Stakeholder Communication
• Network Development
• Alumni Engagement
• Student Support
• Continuing Professional Development

Job areas

• Education
• Management & Leadership

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