Student Support Manager

About Oxford Business College

Since 1985, Oxford Business College (OBC) has spearheaded transformative education, carving a unique path for overlooked individuals, especially mature students facing barriers in traditional education. Operating seven days a week for our students, OBC's pioneering approach adapts to the diverse lifestyles & commitments of non-traditional learners. Across campuses in West London, Oxford, & Brentford, OBC's ultra-flexible scheduling ensures inclusivity, reinforced by a robust digital infrastructure. Actively fostering a sense of belonging for students from all backgrounds, we provide comprehensive support services. Emphasising practical skills for employability through industry placements, OBC stands as a dynamic catalyst for change, reshaping higher education with an unwavering commitment to accessibility, flexibility, & inclusivity. With over 7500 students & 300 colleagues, join OBC in shaping the future of education & unlocking opportunities for a diverse range of students.

The role

The Student Support Manager at Oxford Business College (OBC) is responsible for ensuring the comprehensive support and welfare of students within an assigned region. The role requires a proactive approach to student engagement, welfare, and support services across multiple campuses within the region.

Line Manager: Head of Student Services

Key Responsibilities

Student Support and Welfare Management

• Oversee the welfare and well-being of students within the region, addressing diverse needs and issues impacting their academic and personal lives.
• Manage and mentor College Counsellors and Student Support & Welfare Officers within the designated region, ensuring they deliver consistent and high-quality support services.
• Lead on the development and implementation of student support strategies, adapting them to address specific campus requirements and student demographics within the region.

Partnership Development

• Establish and nurture partnerships with local organizations and community services for effective student referrals, ensuring students have access to appropriate external support and resources.
• Engage with local and regional welfare services to promote a collaborative approach to student well-being.

Regional Support Team Leadership

• Provide leadership and guidance to student support and welfare officers across campuses in the region, setting clear objectives, providing resources, and encouraging professional development.
• Facilitate regular meetings with campus-based support teams, promoting a cohesive, regional approach to student welfare.
• Foster a collaborative environment with campus deans, programme leaders, and academic support teams to enable timely adjustments and interventions to support at-risk students.

Engagement Risk Oversight

• Identify and monitor engagement-related risks, proactively intervening with students facing challenges related to attendance, academic performance, or personal issues.
• Lead on the implementation of support interventions for at-risk students and maintain ongoing follow-ups to encourage improved engagement and retention.

Reporting and Governance

• Produce detailed reports on support and welfare services to present at appropriate panels and committees as outlined in the Corporate & Academic Governance Framework (CAGF).
• Ensure timely and accurate documentation of all student interactions and interventions, maintaining records in compliance with College policies and data protection standards.

Collaboration with the Personal Academic Tutor (PAT) System

• Work closely with the PAT Coordinator to facilitate referrals and ensure proper signposting to support services.
• Ensure that support data is centrally recorded, enabling a holistic approach to tracking and managing student well-being across the institution.

Counselling Services Management

• Manage and support College Counsellors within the region, ensuring high standards of service and confidentiality in student counselling.
• Monitor and review counsellor casework and reporting, ensuring data is effectively managed and analysed to inform future support practices.

Student Engagement Initiatives

• Collaborate with Student Council representatives to develop initiatives, workshops, and events that promote student engagement, community, and well-being.
• Drive enhancements to student support services based on feedback from Student Council and other stakeholders, continually improving the student experience.

Safeguarding and Safety

• Work closely with safeguarding and prevent teams to maintain a safe environment for students, staff, and OBC community members.
• Implement and uphold safeguarding practices within the region, ensuring that support staff are trained and compliant with the latest policies and procedures.

PERSON SPECIFICATIONS

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in education, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field; a master's degree is desirable.
• Relevant professional experience in student services, welfare, or a related support role, ideally within higher education.
• Experience in managing or supervising a team is essential, along with a record of effective leadership and staff development.
• Knowledge of safeguarding practices and the ability to implement these within a student-centred environment.

Essential Criteria

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to engage effectively with students, staff, and external partners.
• Proven leadership and management experience, particularly in a welfare or support-focused role within higher education or similar settings.
• Ability to work autonomously while collaborating effectively across multi-campus environments.
• Excellent organizational and reporting skills, with experience in preparing reports for governance or regulatory frameworks.
• Proficiency in working with diverse student populations and an understanding of their varying needs.
• High level of emotional intelligence and empathy, with the ability to support students through complex and sensitive issues.

To apply, please click on the ‘Apply’ button above