Interim Director - Student Experience & Engagement

Real; Harrogate; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 92,000; Part time

Job summary

Real is seeking an experienced Interim Head of Student Experience to provide strategic and operational leadership across the student journey in a Further Education setting. You will work with senior leaders, curriculum teams, support services and external partners to ensure enrolment through progression delivers an outstanding learner experience.

The role focuses on improving engagement, wellbeing, inclusion, retention and progression, and requires a proven track record in leading student

Qualifications

• Significant leadership experience in Further Education, Higher Education, or a related educational environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of the college's Student Experience Strategy.
• Drive initiatives that enhance student engagement, wellbeing, inclusion, retention, achievement, and progression.
• Ensure the student voice is embedded within decision-making processes across the college.
• Contribute to college-wide strategic planning as a member of the leadership team.
• Develop mechanisms for gathering and responding to student feedback.
• Oversee student representation, learner forums, and enrichment activities.
• Promote a culture where students feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.
• Lead initiatives that improve student satisfaction and engagement metrics.
• Provide leadership for student support services, including welfare, safeguarding, pastoral support, attendance, and wellbeing provision.
• Ensure effective systems are in place to identify and support vulnerable learners and those at risk of disengagement.
• Work collaboratively to promote equality, diversity, inclusion, mental health, and student resilience.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of student experience activities using data and performance measures.
• Identify areas for improvement and implement targeted action plans.
• Support curriculum and support teams in improving retention, attendance, achievement, and progression outcomes.
• Contribute to preparations for inspection and quality assurance activities where required.
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including students, parents/carers, employers, schools, community organisations, and local partners.
• Act as a visible and accessible leader across the college community.
• Represent the college at relevant meetings, events, and partnership forums.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Data analysis

Strategic planning

Change management

Communication

Job description

Real is seeking an experienced Interim Head of Student Experience to provide strategic and operational leadership across the student journey in a Further Education setting. You will work with senior leaders, curriculum teams, support services and external partners to ensure enrolment through progression delivers an outstanding learner experience.

The role focuses on improving engagement, wellbeing, inclusion, retention and progression, and requires a proven track record in leading student