866 Programme lead jobs

About the Role

This Project Officer role is part of Bright Futures, our mentoring and employability support programme for young Gypsy and Traveller people aged 15-25. You will keep the programme organised, connected and running smoothly - managing records and systems, building partnerships, and coordinating workshops and activities so that young people can find their way in and get the most out of the support on offer.

Many of the young people we work with have faced exclusion or discrimination within mainstream education, employment and other services, and are often not in education, employment or training (NEET). The processes, systems and communications you manage all need to be accessible and responsive to young people who may be wary of formal support.

You will coordinate outreach and community engagement to bring young people into the programme, build and maintain relationships with colleges, training providers, employers and community organisations, and manage day-to-day communications with young people, families and partners. You will set up and coordinate a Youth Advisory Group, giving young people a structured way to help shape the programme. You may also be asked to cover for mentee support when a mentor is unavailable or at capacity.

This role is funded by The National Lottery Community Fund.

About You

This role is for someone who enjoys keeping things organised and connected, and who wants that work to make a real, practical difference in young people's lives – someone committed to supporting young people from marginalised and underserved communities to fairly access relevant opportunities.

You will be highly organised, with strong admin skills and confidence using digital tools and databases. You will also be a confident communicator, equally comfortable writing a promotional post, following up with a training provider, or having a conversation with a young person or their family.

The role is ideal for someone with experience of outreach, building partnerships or community engagement, who can build trusting relationships with a wide range of people – from young people and families to colleges, employers and community organisations. You should be open to providing support to young people when needed.

We don't expect you to already have all the answers what matters most is your admin and organisational ability, your commitment to the communities we work with, and your confidence building relationships across a wide range of people and settings. We will support your development through supervision, training and a small, collaborative team environment.

We know not everyone will meet every requirement in the job description below, but if you feel you have what it takes, please apply and tell us how your experience and skills make you suitable.

If you are not sure what the work looks like or you want to ask questions before applying, we are happy to chat with you about the role. Please contact Mini Ravi (Programme Lead) by calling on our office phone.

About LGT and Bright Futures

London Gypsies and Travellers (LGT) challenges social exclusion and discrimination, working for change in partnership with Gypsy and Traveller communities living on council caravan sites, roadside camps, in flats and houses, and those experiencing homelessness.

Bright Futures supports Gypsy and Traveller young men and women aged 15–25 through mentoring, skills development, employability and wellbeing support. The programme helps young people build confidence, develop practical skills and identify realistic pathways into training and employment, working at their own pace and around their needs and interests. The programme is shaped by a deep understanding of the Gypsy and Traveller culture, and designed to empower young people to engage with wider society with pride, motivation and confidence.

Our services also include accommodation advice and advocacy, family support, community development, research, policy work and campaigns, and we support hundreds of individuals and families each year.

We are a small, committed and supportive team who seek to live our organisational values throughout our work: Collaboration, Courage, Empowerment, Inclusivity, Equity, Community.

We are committed to equal opportunities and workforce diversity. We strongly encourage applications from Gypsy and Traveller communities.
 

To Apply

Review the responsibilities and person specification in the job description enclosed.

Using the ‘Apply Now’ button, please submit your CV

Instead of a cover letter, please submit answers to the following 3 questions in the space provided when you apply.

1. Briefly tell us about your experience of providing admin and coordination work. What exactly did you do and what tools or systems did you use?

2. What is one of the barriers that young people from vulnerable or marginalised backgrounds face around education, training and work? Why?

3. Why are you interested in this role and working with London Gypsies & Travellers?

250-300 word answers for each question is enough, but you are welcome to write more.

There is no right answer and we are not interested in perfect responses. We want to know about you and the knowledge, skills, and experience your will bring to the role.

Closing date: Wednesday 30th September 2026

Interviews: Tuesday 20th October (in person), Tuesday 27th October (potential stage 2, online)

Please check you are available on these dates before applying, in case you are shortlisted for interviews.

Please note: An enhanced DBS check is required for the role. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

Farm Discovery Programme Manager

Salary: £40,170 | Home-based | 35 hours per week | Permanent

This is a varied senior role combining programme leadership, team and contract management, quality assurance, safeguarding, data and financial oversight, partnership development and programme improvement.

You’ll ensure our Farm Discovery team has the clarity, support and resources they need to deliver consistently high-quality educational experiences for children from disadvantaged communities. You’ll also use data, feedback and evaluation to improve the programme, develop partnerships and contribute to its future growth and development.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has a strong track record in programme management and leading complex delivery
• Is outstanding at enabling and leading educators and dispersed teams
• Understands the primary education context in England
• Can build strong relationships with schools, farmers, funders and partners
• Has experience of quality, safeguarding, health and safety and risk management
• Is confident using data, managing budgets and improving systems and processes
• Can communicate effectively and work collaboratively across an organisation
• Shares our commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for children experiencing disadvantage

The role is home-based, with regular travel across England and North Wales, including overnight stays, an essential part of the role. Reasonable travel and accommodation expenses are covered.

Hours: 35 hours per week, with flexible working arrangements considered, including slightly reduced or compressed hours for the right candidate.

Closing date: Thursday 8 October 2026, midday.
CVs not accepted for this role. Please see our website for more information.

Help Shape a Brighter Future for Bedford

Do you have the vision to turn great ideas into impactful programmes? Are you committed to creating opportunities for children and young people, and helping communities to thrive?

The Harpur Trust is a charitable organisation that operates four leading independent schools, delivers a substantial community grants programme and sponsors the Heart Academies Trust. With more than 1,200 employees, we invest in education, community development and initiatives that improve life chances across Bedford Borough.

We are also a founding partner and host of Bedford Giving, a movement of businesses, charities and other partners, who have all come together to form Bedford Giving to help create a brighter future for the next generation in Bedford.

We're looking for a dynamic Programmes and Grants Manager to play a central role in delivering these missions. This is a unique opportunity to join a respected local charity and help shape the future of Bedford Giving.

About the Role

As Programmes and Grants Manager, you will lead the development, commissioning and management of high-impact programmes and partnerships across The Harpur Trust and Bedford Giving.

You'll take ideas from concept to delivery, identifying community needs, researching solutions, commissioning services, managing partnerships and ensuring programmes achieve meaningful outcomes.

This is a varied and rewarding role combining strategy, programme development, stakeholder engagement, grant-making and contract management.

You'll work closely with senior leaders, trustees, community organisations and delivery partners, helping to ensure that every pound invested delivers maximum impact.

About You

We're looking for someone who combines strong project or programme management skills with a genuine commitment to improving outcomes for children, young people and communities.

You will bring:

• Experience of programme development, commissioning, grant-making or service delivery within the charitable, public or voluntary sector.

• Strong project and contract management skills.

• Excellent relationship-building and stakeholder engagement abilities.

• Confidence managing multiple priorities and delivering work to a high standard.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• A proactive, solutions-focused approach and a willingness to take initiative.

• A passion for creating positive social impact.

Why Join Us?

At The Harpur Trust, you'll be part of an organisation with a long history of investing in people and communities.

In return, we offer:

• A competitive salary up to £40,000.

• The opportunity to influence programmes that improve lives across Bedford.

• A supportive and collaborative working environment.

• Professional development and learning opportunities.

• Generous pension and employee benefits.

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements where appropriate.

• The chance to work with inspiring partners across the charity, education and community sectors.

Interested?

Find out more by viewing the full job description and click on apply to find out where to send your CV and covering letter.

Saferworld is seeking an experienced Programme Development Manager to join our Funding & Programme Development Team. The Programme Development Manager will support a portfolio of Saferworld’s teams in co-designing and mobilising funding for peace, security and justice programmes alongside Saferworld’s partners. The successful applicant will have a focus of 3-4 countries, which will be decided based on the candidate’s experience and preference. Working closely with Regional Directors, Country Managers, and programme and grant management colleagues, the post-holder will lead on: coordinating and facilitating programme co-design processes (including taking the lead in facilitating co-design, processes, drafting high quality concept notes and proposals, theories of change, logical models, risk matrixes and budgets); developing and supporting the implementation of long-term country funding strategies; and supporting new donor engagement and sustaining relationships with current donors. The post-holder will be responsible for managing funding portfolios across institutional and non-institutional donors in our programmes.

The post-holder will have a successful track record in developing programmes and leading new business development efforts with institutional donors such as Global Affairs Canada (GAC), the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the European Union (EU), UN agencies and European Governments such as Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). Additional experience in mobilising resource from trusts and foundations and other non-traditional funding mechanisms is desirable.

Strong applicants will have proven programme experience, such as in project management or programme support, which equips them to lead and inform high-quality programme design. They will be skilled in coordinating complex processes, facilitating participatory co-creation with partners, and ensuring proposals are robust, contextually relevant, and strategically aligned.

ClementJames is looking for a high-calibre Head of Young People’s Programmes to lead the continued development and delivery of programmes supporting young people with their education, attainment, confidence and aspirations. As the organisation continues to grow, you will play a key strategic role in ensuring programmes evolve to meet the changing needs of young people and their families.

Working closely with the Chief Programmes Officer and wider management team, you will build strong relationships with schools, alternative provisions, community organisations and the local authority, while keeping young people and their families at the heart of the work. You will bring a genuine passion for understanding the challenges faced by the communities ClementJames supports, alongside the leadership and programme expertise needed to turn that understanding into meaningful impact.

In return, ClementJames offers a supportive and values-led culture built around trust, care and understanding, with a strong focus on professional development and wellbeing. Benefits include a nine-day fortnight and a scholarship fund to support learning and development, alongside a culture that encourages excellence, learning from mistakes and sustainable working without burnout.

Research Programme Manager – Mental Health Advert

Contract: Fixed-term contract for 2 years (with the possibility of extension of up to a further 12 months)

Hours: 28 hours per week (FTE is 35 hours per week)

Location: London (hybrid), with occasional travel within the UK)

Salary: £52,467 (FTE £65,584)

Closing date: 23rdSeptember 2026

Interview Dates: Week Commencing 28th September (London Office)

Freedom from Torture has an exciting opportunity for a Research Programme Manager to join our team and play a central role in delivering an innovative international mental health research programme funded by a major UK research funder. The programme will explore whether artificial intelligence can safely and effectively support survivors of torture with managing distressing memories. Survivor co-design is central to the programme, ensuring that people with lived experience across diverse cultures, languages and backgrounds meaningfully shape innovation in mental health.

About us

Freedom from Torture is an established charity that has been supporting survivors of torture for over 35 years and has a dedicated donor base. We are committed to providing high-quality, evidence-based interventions for people who have survived torture. We provide therapies to improve physical and mental health, medically document torture, and offer legal and welfare support. Our clinical model has been co-designed with survivors of torture and includes a range of interventions, including trauma-focused therapy, psychotherapy, family and couple systemic psychotherapy, group work, pain management and health assessment.

In addition to our treatment services, we expose torture globally, campaign for the rights of survivors and work to hold torturing states to account. We use evidence from our services and survivor voices to influence national and international change, placing survivors at the centre of everything we do.

Our current strategy seeks to increase access to rehabilitation services for survivors of torture, strengthen our clinical excellence through research, and explore innovative models of service delivery that enable us to reach more people in need. This includes developing research partnerships and innovation opportunities that advance knowledge, improve practice and create meaningful impact for survivors. We undertake our work under our four core values of Hope, Compassion, Empowerment and Resolve. This is an exciting time to join Freedom from Torture and make a meaningful contribution to our future development.

We offer a competitive package, with a generous 30-day annual leave entitlement (pro rata), 6% employer pension contribution, and flexible and hybrid working arrangements.

About the role

This is a senior research programme management role supporting the delivery of a major externally funded health research programme involving multiple organisations, international collaborators and diverse stakeholder groups. The programme includes research involving human participants and brings together expertise from universities, charities, clinicians, researchers, technologists and people with lived experience.

A defining feature of this programme is its commitment to survivor leadership and co-design. Survivors of torture will play an active role in shaping, informing and governing the research throughout its lifecycle. The successful candidate will therefore work closely with survivor advisors, co-design groups and governance structures to support meaningful participation and ensure that lived experience perspectives are incorporated into programme decision-making, research development and delivery. This commitment to participation is central to the ethos, methodology and success of the programme.

Reporting to the Principal Investigator, the Research Programme Manager will act as the central coordination point across the consortium and will be responsible for leading programme planning, coordinating international partners, supporting governance structures, managing funder reporting and compliance, coordinating financial oversight, supporting research governance and ethics, monitoring programme risks and preparing high-quality reports and briefings for funders, governance bodies and senior stakeholders.

The successful candidate will work closely with Freedom Fron Torture colleagues across clinical services, survivor leadership and empowerment, fundraising, finance, research partners and organisational leadership to ensure successful delivery of programme objectives. This role offers a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of health research, innovation, survivor involvement and international collaboration.

About you

You will be an experienced programme or project management professional with a track record of delivering complex health research programmes. You will have experience of managing externally funded research programmes, working with major research funders, coordinating activity across multiple organisations, supporting governance structures, managing risk and assurance processes, and contributing to financial monitoring and reporting.

You will understand the importance of meaningful involvement of people with lived experience in research and service development. You will have experience of supporting inclusive engagement, co-design, consultation or participation activities and be committed to ensuring that diverse voices influence decision-making, governance and programme delivery.

You will bring excellent communication and relationship-management skills, with the ability to work confidently with academics, clinicians, funders, people with lived experience, senior organisational leaders and colleagues across different professional backgrounds. You will be organised, proactive and able to exercise sound judgement in a complex and fast-moving programme environment.

This role would particularly suit candidates from university or health providers research management, major health research funders, and mental or physical health clinicians with substantial research management experience.

In Return

In return, we offer a competitive package, with a generous 30-day annual leave entitlement, and 6% employer pension contribution (minimum 1% employee contribution).

Freedom from Torture is committed to showing the salary for all advertised roles and not negotiating salaries for roles, in light of evidence that this contributes to structural inequality.

Our policy is that all appointments will be at the start of the salary range but successful candidates will have the opportunity to move up the scale over time. The progression up the salary range is reviewed on an annual basis and subject to affordability. For this role, the salary range is £52,467 per annum to £60,861 per annum (FTE £65,584 to 76,077).

To view the Job Description and Person Specification, please click here 

Freedom from Torture is dedicated to healing and protecting people who have survived torture. We provide therapies to improve physical and mental health, we medically document torture, and we provide legal and welfare help. We expose torture globally, we fight to hold torturing states to account and we campaign for fairer treatment of torture survivors in the UK.

We campaign for national and global change, using evidence from our services and survivor voices to protect and promote survivors' rights and hold torturing states to account. We are proud to play a significant role in the global anti-torture movement. Survivors, active and empowered, are at the centre of all of our work.

Freedom from Torture is committed to its responsibilities under safeguarding and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS/PVG disclosure, as well as a full employment history and up-to-date employment references.

Freedom from Torture is an equal opportunity employer. People with lived experience of torture or asylum, from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ individuals and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please note that a CV and a cover letter addressing the Job Description and Person Specification are mandatory to be considered for this position.

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications.

No agencies please.

Research Programmes Manager

We have established a number of high-profile strategic initiatives to help us advance our work towards a cure. We now have an exciting opportunity for a Research Programme Manager to support the successful ongoing delivery of two of our major initiatives, the Drug Discovery Alliance and Brains for Dementia Research, and collaborate across the organisation and externally to maximise their impact. Where required, the successful candidate will also support the ongoing delivery of our other major initiatives, working collaboratively across the organisation to maximise their impact both internally and externally.

This role sits within the Strategic Programmes team in the Research Directorate, an ambitious, supportive and friendly team that funds the best research to transform the lives of people affected by all forms of dementia. We’re looking for someone with strong programme management experience, a good eye for detail and who is excited by the opportunities in the dementia research landscape.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the delivery of two of ARUK’s major initiatives, Drug Discovery Alliance (DDA) and Brains for Dementia Research (BDR), and other initiatives as required:

· Develop a deep understanding of the programmes, acting as a point of knowledge and expertise

· Implement robust and proportionate review processes to oversee delivery of objectives and manage risks

· Ensure finances are effectively reported on and managed, working with the Research Funding and Finance teams

· Lead the preparation of papers and briefings for meetings, and support the Research Officer to ensure minutes and actions are captured and followed up on

Monitor and disseminate the impact of the DDA and BDR, to effectively tell the story of the initiatives and identify gaps:

· Monitor key programme progress, scientific developments and major outputs

· Work with the Impact team to ensure data gathered from the programme meets the needs of the wider organisation in terms of communicating progress and impact

· Work with the Public Involvement team to ensure the initiatives are reflective of the needs of people with lived experience

Stakeholder management

· Build strong relationships with stakeholders across the initiatives to identify opportunities to maximise their impact and value.

· Collaborate with the Head of Strategic Programmes and colleagues across the Research Directorate and wider ARUK to identify opportunities to strengthen programme objectives, provide updates on progress, and promote achievements.

· Act as a key point of contact and subject matter expert for the initiatives, both internally and externally.

· Support development of the strategic programme team’s strategy:

· Contribute to internal meetings, including discussions and content on strategic programmes and new initiatives

· Maintain up to date knowledge of developments in the dementia research field

· Attend meetings and events to build relationships and promote our strategic programmes

· Support the Research Leadership team to enhance ARUK’s external profile through active participation in meetings and collaborations with key stakeholders

Line Management Responsibilities:

· Line management of a Research Officer, effectively delegating work to support delivery of their objectives

· Help to promote an inspiring team culture where personal development is prioritised

Knowledge, skills and experience needed:

· Degree in Biomedical Science, or equivalent relevant knowledge and experience.

· Experience and/or in-depth knowledge in early-stage drug discovery, ideally in dementia

· Proven experience managing large programmes of work, preferably in the healthcare, research or charity sector

· Strong project management skills, with experience managing multiple priorities, overseeing budgets and identifying risks

· Proven ability to build and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including external partners and suppliers

· Experience defining programme requirements and using data and metrics to determine improvements

· Experience of managing staff and/or leading the delivery of work through others.

· Commitment to ARUK’s vision, mission and values

· Good analytical skills demonstrated by a structured and methodical approach

· Excellent eye for detail with a focus on continuous improvement

· Strong communication skills both oral and written with the ability to convey complex information to diverse audiences

· Excellent time management skills and ability to multi-task, prioritise competing demands

· Demonstrated stakeholder management (internal & external), and problem-solving skills

· Ability to manage a varied workload and prioritise tasks, work under pressure and meet deadlines

· Ability to use own initiative, with a proactive and problem-solving attitude

· Willingness to travel, including occasional overnight travel

Additional Information:

Ways of working: As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.

Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals.  This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.

Our Office: Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD. 

Salary: Circa £44,000 per annum, plus benefits.

Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.

The closing date for applications is the 20th September 2026, with interviews being arrange once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.

We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential.  We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, particularly from those in the global majority, those with disabilities, men and those from the LGBTQIA+ community. Any offer of employment is however subject to you having the right to work in the UK.

As part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer and ensuring fairness and consistency in our selection process, we will handle your CV and application with the utmost confidentiality. Should you require any adjustments at either the application or interview stage, please contact us via our website. 

How to apply: Please create an online account using our Online Recruitment Platform which can be accessed through our Job Vacancies page. You will be able to attach your CV to your application and track the status of your application.

About Alzheimer’s Research UK: Alzheimer's Research UK is the UK's leading dementia research charity. Our mission is to accelerate progress towards a cure.  Today 1 in 2 people will be impacted by dementia, either through caring for a loved one, developing it themselves or tragically both. But there is hope. 

The Sutton Trust is the UK’s leading social mobility charity. Our programmes empower young people to access life-changing opportunities, and our research influences national change to deliver a fairer future.

Over the next year the Trust will celebrate its 30th anniversary and as part of its strategy, we have ambitious plans to grow our access to the workplace programmes in new and innovative ways. We are looking for a dynamic and enthusiastic Employability Programmes Manager to join our team through this exciting period.

The Trust’s Employability programmes support talented young people from lower income backgrounds to successfully access highly competitive universities, degree apprenticeships and professional careers. Delivered in partnership with the UK’s top universities and major employers the programmes support over 1,000 students each year from across the UK.

The successful candidate will lead on the development of a brand-new Tech and Digital Pathways to the Professions programme due to launch in Sep 2027 working with colleagues across the organisation. They will also manage and deliver, a range of other cohort-based employability programmes delivered both online and in-person. They will join a small and passionate team, led by the Head of Employability Programmes, and will play an important role in contributing to the on-going success of our programme work and industry engagement strategy.

Main duties

This role is responsible for leading on the design, planning and delivery of the new Tech and Digital programme (pre 18), alongside planning delivery for the existing employability programmes including our current Careers Plus (post-18) programmes in the tech & digital sector.

Programmes design and delivery

• Design a suite of interventions and activities for the new Pathways to Tech & Digital programme for launch in September 2027 leveraging our existing Sutton Trust theory of change, previous evaluations and models adapted from existing programmes. The role will work closely with the Senior Employability Manager and other colleagues across the team responsible for employer engagement, evaluation and marketing to ensure successful launch.

• Deliver existing employability programmes including our current Careers Plus (post-18) programme to launch the next cohort in April 2027, liaising with the Alumni team to ensure alignment with overall alumni engagement.

• Plan, project manage and deliver a range of online and in person activities within those employability programmes including launch events, career insight activities, academic taster sessions, skills workshops, group projects, networking, information and advice sessions etc. Some activities will also be in-person at employer partners.

• Liaise with colleagues in the Employer Engagement team to plan and delivery work experience placements, insight days and employer volunteering across programmes.

• Design engagement and comms plans for programmes to ensure strong student engagement and retention

• Work with colleagues to build and manage relationships with industry partners from across a range of sectors, who fund and support delivery across the programmes

• Managepartnerships with external delivery organisations (including universities and 3rdsector facilitators) to ensure the sessions and content of the programmes meet its intended aims

• Ensure all events and activities are risk assessed and delivered in line with both health and safety and safeguarding policies and best practice

• Liaise with colleagues in the evaluation team to manage the monitoring, evaluation, accountability and learning across programmes supporting strong response rates, stakeholder reporting and adapting programme design and delivery based on feedback.

• Lead programme transition and change, balancing the delivery of existing programmes with the development and implementation of new initiatives

• Manage programme budgets and reporting process

Team responsibilities

• Line manage a Programme Assistant who supports across programmes

• Working with the Development team, manage the evaluation and reporting of programme activities including reporting/presenting to funders

• Other duties as necessary from time to time

Organisational responsibilities:

GDPR

• Being conscious of how the GDPR relate to your area of work

• Monitoring and raising issues or potential issues as they arise

Safeguarding

• Being aware of and actively working to include safeguarding within all aspects of work

• Raising issues or potential issues as they arise

Fundraising

• Acting as a representative and ambassador of the Sutton Trust when interacting with external contacts and particularly (prospective) donors

• Engage with fundraising and/or donor-related activities if required (e.g., contributing to funding proposals, reports or donor meetings)

Health & Safety and Office

• Familiarising yourself with the Trust’s Employee Safety Handbook, and your individual H&S duties and responsibilities.

• Reporting any H&S concerns or issues as they arise, either at home or in the office, as appropriate.

• Being aware of trigger points and informing the Ops team as needed e.g. when moving address or adjusting home workstation setup.

• Ensuring line reports are completing all H&S training.

• Regularly checking in with line reports on any H&S concerns, particularly when lone working/working from home.

• Acting as the Trust’s first point of contact, by providing a responsive and efficient service for general external and internal telephone and email enquiries

HR

• Line managing, motivating and proactively supporting Programmes Assistant: Employability in their professional development

• Following the Trust’s HR policies relating to line management and engaging with relevant processes as necessary

Person Specification

We welcome applications from individuals who have experience in:

• Managing projects/programmes, including event design, planning, administration and delivery

• Developing and launching new programmes or initiatives, using evidence, insight and innovation to deliver high quality programming

• Experience of leading programme change and transition

• Leading young person-facing events and activities, including awareness of best practice in supporting student needs, ideally with experience of digital delivery

• Facilitation of sessions with young people in person or online

• Building and Managing relationships with both contracted and voluntary delivery partners as well as diverse stakeholder groups including corporate or funder relationships;

• Using data to design and deliver programmes

• Monitoring and evaluation, reporting, and administration

• Budget management

• Working within or an understanding of the not for profit sector

We are also looking for an individual who:

• Is sympathetic to the aims of the Trust and its mission to address educational disadvantage

• Demonstrates a high degree of initiative and leadership when delivering projects and events

• Has strong organisational skills including the ability to multi-task and prioritise

• Excellent verbal and written communication and strong analytical skills

• Has first-class interpersonal skills - a natural ambassador able to represent the Sutton Trust in a range of settings

• Is eligible to work in the UK

Terms of Appointment

• Contract: Full-time, Permanent

• Salary: 43,000 - 44,000 per annum

• Working location: Minimum of two office days per week. Our home working policy gives staff the option to work from home for up to 60% of the time, with approval from their line manager.

• Office location: The Sutton Trust, 9th Floor, Millbank Tower, 21-24 Millbank, London, SW1P 4QP.

• Hours: The standard working hours are 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. This role is likely to also be required to attend events / meetings outside of normal working hours during weekday evenings and occasionally at weekends, in line with organisational policies.

• A DBS check may be required

• Please note that we are unfortunately not a licensed visa sponsor

Interviews

Applications should reach us by Tuesday 29th September, with first round interviews held over Zoom on Wednesday 7th October, and second round interviews held at our London offices on Thursday 15th October.

Safeguarding statement

The Sutton Trust believes that a child, young person or vulnerable adult should never experience abuse of any kind. We all have a responsibility to promote the welfare of all children and young people and to keep them safe. Therefore all posts undergo a safer recruitment process, including but not limited to, disclosure of criminal records where necessary and eligibility to work in the UK. We have procedures in place to promote safeguarding and a safe culture at the Trust.

Contextual recruitment

The Trust is committed to ensuring equality of opportunity and that all applicants receive equal consideration for employment. We strongly encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including those underrepresented at present at the Trust, to apply for this role. As such we particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities, Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ and from different socio-economic and educational backgrounds. We are committed to being an inclusive and welcoming place to work and know that greater diversity will lead to even greater results for the young people we support.

We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for disabled candidates throughout our recruitment process and during employment.

We also operate contextual recruitment at the Sutton Trust. Our application process gives you the option to include information about your background, such as whether you were eligible for free school meals, whether your parents went to university, or whether you attended a state school. For more examples and information on contextual recruitment, please see our website.

As the Programme Manager, you’ll own and drive the planning, governance and delivery of major cross charity fundraising appeals, including a significant capital appeal that forms a key part of the Charities’ long term fundraising ambitions. 

The Programme Manager is accountable for the effective governance and delivery of these programmes across multiple teams within the Charities Directorate, ensuring that priorities are clear, dependencies are actively managed, risks are addressed, decisions are made at the right level, and programmes are ready to deliver key milestones and intended outcomes. 

You will ensure programmes are underpinned by: 

• Clear governance, decision-making and escalation structures 
• A single, accurate view of programme performance, progress, risks, dependencies and readiness 
• Clear ownership and accountability for delivery 
• Effective mechanisms for identifying and resolving issues before they impact programme outcomes. 

Acting as a key interface between the Charity and the Trust, you will build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders, influence and challenge where appropriate, align competing priorities and ensure critical dependencies are actively managed. You will use judgement to identify when issues require escalation, intervention or senior decision-making. 

You will provide leadership across programme governance and performance, chairing senior cross functional forums and ensuring that decisions, actions and accountabilities are clear and followed through. You will intervene where necessary to resolve delivery challenges, challenge unrealistic assumptions or plans, and protect programme outcomes. 

 Beyond immediate appeal delivery, the Programme Manager leads horizon scanning to identify opportunities that leverage appeal success for sustainable fundraising growth, working with teams like Supporter Experience to embed donor retention and long-term income strategies into our work. 

The Programme Manager will be an experienced programme leader who can take accountability for complex, multi-stakeholder programmes; bring clarity and structure to ambiguity; influence senior stakeholders and cross-functional teams; and exercise sound judgement to resolve challenges, manage competing priorities and protect programme outcomes. 

As part of a small Strategy, Planning & Innovation team, the Programme Manager will also champion project management best practice across the directorate, building the tools, capability and ways of working that enable consistent high-quality delivery. 

Key Responsibilities

 Programme and project Leadership (approx. 40% of role) 

• Lead the planning, governance and successful delivery of major fundraising appeals, ensuring clear milestones, ownership, risk management and cross-team collaboration. 
• •Design and embed the tools and ways of working that will enable effective decision making and governance across appeal delivery. 
• Work with teams across the Charity and the Trust to translate programme objectives into clear plans, priorities and actions that support successful delivery. 
• Identify, assess and manage programme risks, issues and interdependencies, intervening where necessary to maintain momentum and protect delivery. 
• Maintain strategic oversight of the major appeals funding pipeline, ensuring opportunities are effectively tracked, prioritised and progressed across teams. 
• Use data, insight and horizon scanning to identify emerging risks and opportunities, bringing forward recommendations that support long-term fundraising growth. 

Management of stakeholders and interdependencies (approx. 40% of role) 

• Act as the primary liaison between the Charities Directorate and the Trust, ensuring strategic alignment, effective decision making and management of critical programme dependencies. This means you’ll be onsite at the hospital and hospital offices on Lambeth Palace Road frequently and regularly. 
• Build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders across the Charity and the Trust, including those more senior, providing constructive challenge, influencing decisions and securing alignment around programme priorities and delivery. 
• Provide programme leadership through chairing appeal boards and senior governance forums, ensuring strategic decisions are made, owned and acted upon. 
• Lead cross-functional working groups that co-ordinate delivery across teams, resolve challenges and maintain progress against programme objectives. 
•  Use judgement and insight to bring the most important strategic issues, risks and opportunities to the right forum at the right time, enabling leaders to make informed decisions and stay ahead of emerging challenges. 
• Lead stakeholder engagement that builds understanding, confidence and commitment to the major appeals programme, ensuring all stakeholders remain aligned on priorities, decisions and progress. 

Project management best practice (approx. 20% of role) 

• Design and embed a project management toolkit that empowers teams to lead consistent and high quality projects in their own business areas. 
• Build project and programme management capability across teams by coaching, influencing and challenging colleagues to adopt effective approaches and ways of working, improving the consistency and quality of delivery across teams. 
• Partner with the Strategy and Planning Manager to shape business planning tools, processes and mechanisms that drive collaboration, enable iteration and strengthen delivery across the directorate. 

 Work environment The post holder should expect to:

•  Work in a hot desk environment, at least two days a week in the Charity’s office, hospital and hospital offices. 
• Be responsible for the input and maintenance of databases and files relevant to the post requirements. 
• Will occasionally be required to attend events in the evening and at weekends (eg board meetings, launch events). 

Role responsibilities are not exhaustive, and you would be reasonably expected to take on wider tasks that are commensurate with the level of your role. 

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

Skills, abilities, and attributes

• Strategic thinker who can translate organisational priorities into co-ordinated programme delivery while balancing immediate delivery requirements with longer-term opportunities. 
• Skilled at designing practical governance and ways of working that drive decisions and progress. Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence, challenge and build alignment with senior stakeholders, including those more senior. 
• Proactive and decisive, with the confidence and judgement to intervene when delivery is at risk. 
• Able to lead governance forums and facilitate discussions that translate strategy into clear decisions, actions and accountability. 
• Confident leading through complexity and ambiguity, managing risk and interdependencies across multiple strategic projects and teams and holding others to account without direct line management responsibility. Champions robust project management whilst remaining flexible and pragmatic in delivery. 
• Uses data, insight and evidence to inform decisions, test hypotheses and drive continuous improvement. 
• Open to change as a necessary part of improvement, and able to deliver despite uncertainty. 
• Collaborative and communicative, with the ability to appeal to hearts as well as minds. 
• Committed to embedding diversity, equity and inclusion. Committed to continuous learning, formally and informally. 

Knowledge, experience and qualifications

• Significant experience leading complex programmes or projects involving multiple stakeholders, workstreams and dependencies. 
• Track record of successfully leading the delivery of high-profile programmes or initiatives in complex, fast-moving environments. 
• Experience designing and embedding governance, reporting and ways of working that improve delivery, accountability and decision making. 
• Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders, including those more senior, in a matrix or hierarchical environment.
• Knowledge of fundraising, ideally both high value and mass market, and ideally in an NHS or health context. 
• Experience leading delivery across cross-functional teams and managing complex interdependencies without direct line management responsibility. 

Benefits

• Contributory Pension
• Annual health and wellbeing personal allowance
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and parental leave pay accessible without length of service requirements.
• Health and wellbeing programme that offers optional free yearly health check-ups.
• Support for healthy eating via fruit bowls and onsite lunch facilities. 
• Agile working, flexible hours, and supportive IT kit. 
• Shower facilities and bike lock area. 
• Generous annual leave (27 days + bank holidays)
• Subsidies for glasses
• Employee Assistance Programme

Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure our teams can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

About the opportunity

We are now recruiting for a Programme Coordinator for our schools in London.

• The London Programme Coordinator oversees a caseload of up to seven partner schools. They manage the logistics and organisation of each school’s tutoring programme, working closely with the schools and pupils and managing the pool of volunteer tutors. They attend the weekly tutoring sessions at each school, as well as overseeing the quality of face to face and online tutoring, always working to deliver a great impact.
• The London Programme Coordinator supports the recruitment of volunteer tutors, manages the tutor sign up process, develops relationships with schools including their Senior Leadership Team and subject teachers, collects data for monitoring and evaluation purposes, and works with other internal teams on business development opportunities.

Deadline: Tuesday, 22nd September 2026
Interviews:Wednesday, 30th September 2026
Start date: Ideally, Monday 19th October 2026
Contract and hours: Full time, fixed-term contract until 31st July 2027. A full working week is 37.5 hours.

Duties and responsibilities
 

• Responsible for the delivery of Action Tutoring’s tutoring programmes in partner schools, whether online or face to face. This includes working closely to manage all key stakeholders: schools, pupils and volunteer tutors; regularly attending weekly tutoring sessions; leading on reviewing and improving programme delivery, using data to reliably assess programme performance.
• Responsible for overseeing the quality of tutoring, engaging in quality assurance processes, and providing feedback to volunteer tutors to ensure effective and impactful delivery. Provide regular check-ins with tutors to ensure ample support and guidance is given to provide targeted tuition to pupils.
• Develop and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders in partner schools, including members of the Senior Leadership Team and subject teachers. Maintain clear and timely communication with relevant school staff, offering regular check-ins with key school stakeholders, and contribute to impact reporting to schools. Supporting the Programme Manager with strategies to retain and sustain school partnerships.
• Update and accurately maintain Action Tutoring’s database, including collecting timely data for monitoring and evaluation purposes, such as attendance records, baseline and interim assessments and pupil surveys. Reporting regularly on key performance indicators to key stakeholders and using them to enhance programme delivery. Work with the Programme Manager on business development, approaching new schools that might be interested in working with Action Tutoring.
• Proactively report to the Programme Manager on the details of Action Tutoring’s operations in their partner schools.

Person specification 

Qualification criteria:
 

• The right to work in the UK.

We are looking for some of the following attributes, though you might be more experienced in some areas than others:
 
Being the sole representative for a partner school, you will need to use your ability to work independently and with initiative, often organising your own time to meet deadlines. You’ll also need to have a strong aptitude for developing relationships with a range of stakeholders ensuring you uphold high standards of communication and adapt your style for different audiences. The nature of this role will also require you to demonstrate adaptability, resilience and the ability to cope with some uncertainty. 
 

This position would suit you if you’re looking to develop your experience in the education or charity sectors. Existing experience of working with young people and/or project management in a charity or education setting would be an asset. As a charity that values and celebrates people's diversity and champions opportunities for all young people, we are keen to receive applications from people who have experienced disadvantage and from those who are of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities who are currently underrepresented in the organisation. The role would be best suited if you are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, as well as, committed to promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children.

You will likely be more successful in this role if you have: 
 

• Experience of working with young people and/or project management. 
• Evidence of an interest in education and/or the third sector

London Play is looking for an experienced and proactive Network Manager to lead the development of the Wilder Play Network, an ambitious initiative bringing together six adventure playgrounds across London to strengthen their role as community green spaces.

This is an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of play, community engagement and environmental improvement, supporting organisations that make a real difference to children and communities in some of London's most disadvantaged neighbourhoods.

About the role

As Wilder Play Network Manager, you'll be responsible for building and coordinating a network of partner organisations, supporting collaboration, learning and shared action across the programme.

Working closely with playground staff, local communities and strategic partners, you'll help deliver environmental improvements, support biodiversity projects, coordinate learning opportunities and ensure the programme creates lasting impact.

You'll also play an important role in helping establish the Wilder Play Network as a recognised voice for adventure playgrounds within London's green infrastructure and play sectors.

About you

We're looking for someone who can build strong relationships and bring people together around a shared vision.

You'll have experience managing projects involving multiple stakeholders and be comfortable coordinating activity, monitoring progress and supporting partners to achieve their goals.

You'll also bring:

• Excellent partnership and relationship management skills
• Strong project management and organisational abilities
• Experience working with communities, voluntary organisations or community-led projects
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to manage competing priorities and work collaboratively across a range of organisations
• A commitment to equality, inclusion, community action and the value of play

Why join London Play?

London Play is a small but influential charity championing children's right to play and helping create neighbourhoods where outdoor play can thrive.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a high-profile programme that combines environmental action, community engagement and children's play, while helping build a stronger future for London's adventure playground sector.

North-West GCSE Resits Senior Programme Coordinator
Our charity delivers a series of interventions that help disadvantaged learners in Further Education to secure gateway English and maths qualifications that unlock opportunities. These interventions include our award-winning GCSE Resit Tuition Programme, for those resitting GCSEs, our Functional Skills Tuition Programme, supporting those on or aspiring to undertake apprenticeship programmes, and training and resources to support teachers and leaders of English and maths in Further Education.

Our benefits include: 

• 36 days of holidays per year (including bank holidays) 

• Ongoing learning and development opportunities 

• Flexible hybrid and remote working 

• Cycle to work scheme 

• Employee Assistance Programme 

• Termly ‘in-person’ team development days at our offices in London 

• The opportunity to work in a progressive and socially conscious, growing organisation where we can have an outsized impact on its success and development. 

About the role

As a Senior Programme Coordinator, you will lead the day-to-day delivery across a portfolio of partner colleges. Acting as the main point of contact for students, tutors and college staff, you will build strong working relationships, maintain a consistent on-site presence and ensure programmes are delivered smoothly, professionally and in line with agreed standards and KPIs. 

You will take ownership of programme performance across your portfolio, with a particular focus on student enrolment, attendance, and session dosage targets. You will oversee programme logistics, monitor delivery quality, and work proactively to maximise student participation and tutor effectiveness. This role requires strong organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to respond quickly and effectively to operational challenges. 

You will also play an important role in maintaining high-quality partnerships with colleges, ensuring stakeholders receive clear communication, accurate reporting and responsive support throughout programme delivery. Alongside this, you will contribute to wider organisational priorities, including safeguarding, tutor development, programme improvement and initiatives that strengthen student outcomes.

As a Senior Programme Coordinator, you will be expected to role model best practice to the wider Programme Coordinator team, working collaboratively to problem solve, and work with your Programme Manager to ensure strategic approaches to meeting KPIs. This is a highly collaborative, delivery-focused role suited to someone who enjoys a challenge, is confident managing relationships.

MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

See recruitment pack 

ABOUT YOU

You will: 

• Thrive in a busy, fast-paced environment and enjoy managing multiple priorities effectively.
• Be passionate about improving outcomes for young people, with a genuine commitment to tackling educational inequality.
• Enjoy working collaboratively with colleagues, tutors and college partners to achieve shared goals.
• Be comfortable working independently, taking ownership of your workload and delivering results with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrate initiative and a proactive approach, identifying opportunities and resolving challenges effectively.
• Be highly organised, detail-oriented and able to manage competing demands without compromising quality.
• Take accountability for your work and be confident making decisions and driving progress.
• Be resilient, adaptable and solutions-focused when responding to challenges.
• Be motivated by working in a mission-driven organisation where your contribution has a direct impact on learners' success and future opportunities.

The closing date for applications is 9:00am on Monday 28 September. Applications received after this time will not be considered.

NEXT STEPS

Suitable candidates will be contacted after the closing date. Screening calls will take place on the Thursday 1st & Friday 2nd October. These will take place online.The first-round interviews will be held online onTuesday 6th October & Wednesday 7th October, followed by a second in-person interview Thursday 15th October(London). You will be able to expense your travel for this interview. 

We value diversity and actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly individuals from ethnically diverse communities who are currently underrepresented in our sector. We are committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels they belong.

For full details on responsibilities please see the recruitment pack. 

Location: Central London, hybrid (2 days per week on site)
Contract: Temporary, 1 month
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week
Pay: £17.11 per hour (+ £2.07 holiday pay) (circa £31,000 salaried equivalent)
Start Date: ASAP

Prospectus is delighted to be supporting our client, a London-based university, in the search for an interim Programme Administrator.

This role is central to ensuring the smooth delivery of programmes and services, providing a fantastic opportunity for an experienced professional to make an immediate and meaningful difference in an impactful organisation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide professional and timely support to customers, service users and stakeholders.
• Respond to enquiries via phone, email and in person, offering accurate information and guidance.
• Maintain accurate records, databases and documentation in line with organisational procedures.
• Support the administration of key processes, ensuring deadlines are met and information is recorded correctly.
• Coordinate meetings, events and activities, including arranging venues, resources and logistics.
• Prepare and distribute communications, reports, documents and other materials.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across different teams to ensure efficient service delivery.
• Assist with the monitoring and reporting of operational activities and performance information.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and contribute ideas to enhance administrative processes.
• Undertake general administrative duties as required to support the wider team.

Key Requirements:

• Recent, relevant experience in an administrative or programme-related role within a higher education institution.
• High level of organisation and attention to detail, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the confidence to build strong stakeholder relationships.
• Collaborative and proactive approach, with the capability to work both independently and in a team.

CVs will be reviewed on a rolling basis so if you're interested, please apply ASAP with your CV in Word format.

At Prospectus, we believe recruitment should be human-led and we are committed to supporting you throughout your application journey. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on age, gender, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, or pregnancy/maternity. While AI may be used to support our administrative process, all applications are reviewed by people and all hiring decisions are made by experienced recruiters.

We are looking for experienced social workers to help take the Weekenders programme into its next chapter. You will join a small, ambitious charity and play a central role in growing a relational, child-focused programme across England.

THE OPPORTUNITY 

• Salary: starting from £40,000, subject to experience

• Hours: full time, 37.5 hours per week

• Location: home-based within England, with regular team co-working and travel

• Contracts: one permanent post and two 18-month fixed-term posts

• Flexibility: occasional evening or weekend delivery, usually around once per month

• Travel: across England, including occasional overnight stays; reasonable expenses are covered

ABOUT NOW FOSTER

Now Foster brings together social work, service design, lived experience and innovation to transform fostering in England. Our vision is to bring many more wonderful people into fostering so that more children and young people can experience stable, meaningful relationships with caring adults.

We are a small team with big ambitions. We value creativity, collaboration, learning and continuous improvement, and we work with partners who share our determination to do better for children and families.

ABOUT WEEKENDERS 

Weekenders is our flagship programme. We recruit and support weekend foster carers – known as Weekenders – who build regular, long-term relationships with children and young people supported by local authorities. It is about showing up, making a difference and becoming an adult a young person can count on.

The programme is entering an exciting period of growth. We are expanding our partnerships with Regional Care Cooperatives, Fostering Hubs and local authorities across England, currently including London, the South West, North West and North East.

THE ROLE – Lead delivery, develop people and stay close to practice

As a Weekenders Programme Manager, you will turn our ambition into consistently excellent delivery. You will lead the day-to-day support of applicants across an agreed portfolio of areas, making sure prospective Weekenders receive a warm, responsive and motivational experience and that our partners can rely on us to deliver what we have agreed.

This is a people-management and delivery role with a strong connection to practice. You will line-manage Journey Guides, manage a network of independent social workers (ISWs), lead our prep group training and undertake some intro chats yourself.

The role does not carry a statutory caseload. It does carry real responsibility for safeguarding, practice quality, operational oversight and relationships across a growing, geographically distributed programme.

Delivery Leadership: Lead programme delivery

• Take day-to-day responsibility for Weekenders delivery across an agreed portfolio of Fostering Hubs and local authority partners.

• Turn partnership agreements and local processes into clear applicant journeys, with roles, handovers and timescales understood by everyone involved.

• Plan capacity across Journey Guides, ISWs, prep group training and your own direct work so that delivery keeps pace with demand.

• Monitor applicant progress, identify delays or risks early and work with colleagues and partners to find practical solutions.

• Maintain a consistent Now Foster experience across regions while adapting thoughtfully to local contexts.

People Management: Manage and develop Journey Guides

• Provide reflective one-to-one and group supervision, clear objectives and timely feedback.

• Allocate work fairly, monitor workloads and create the structure needed for responsive applicant support.

• Coach Journey Guides in relationship-based, strengths-based and motivational conversations, using observation, role play and practice review where helpful.

• Support sound judgement, safe practice and professional boundaries, addressing performance or wellbeing concerns early and constructively.

• Build a connected team culture in which people share learning, ask for help and take ownership.

Practice Oversight: Manage ISWs and assure practice quality

• Build and maintain a reliable pool of qualified, registered ISWs to undertake initial home visits and teach on prep group training days.

• Coordinate ISW recruitment, onboarding, availability, allocation and briefing in line with our safer recruitment and practice arrangements.

• Set clear expectations for the quality, timeliness and tone of home visits, written outputs, training and feedback.

• Review quality, provide constructive feedback and address concerns promptly, while forecasting capacity and arranging cover.

Training: Plan, staff and lead prep group training

• Own the planning and delivery of prep group training across programme areas, including schedules, venues or online delivery, materials, communications and staffing.

• Facilitate and teach on prep groups, modelling inclusive, relational and reflective practice.

• Brief and support ISW co-facilitators so sessions are coherent, well-paced and grounded in the realities of fostering.

• Make sure applicants can reflect meaningfully on children's needs, safer caring, trauma-informed care, cultural matching and working with fostering services.

• Ensure observations and training feedback are recorded sensitively and on time, and use feedback to strengthen future delivery.

Relationships: Stay close to applicants and partners

• Undertake some intro chats, particularly where additional experience, judgement or continuity is needed.

• Step into complex applicant situations or difficult conversations without taking over work appropriately held by Journey Guides.

• Develop trusted operational relationships with Fostering Hubs, Regional Care Cooperatives, local authority fostering teams and other partners.

• Work through differences or blockages constructively, combining persistence with curiosity about other people's pressures and perspectives.

Programme Addurance: Safeguarding, quality and improvement

• Promote a strong safeguarding culture and ensure concerns are recognised, recorded and escalated appropriately.

• Maintain accurate, timely records and use pipeline data, feedback and practice observations to understand performance and improve delivery.

• Contribute to the development of tools, guidance, communications and digital workflows as Weekenders grows.

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR – Experience, judgement and a strongly relational approach

Essential

You will need a recognised social work qualification and current registration with Social Work England. Beyond that, we are looking for someone who can combine strong practice judgement with people leadership and operational oversight.

You will thrive in this role if you have

• People-management experience – line-managing, supervising or developing staff, including giving feedback and supporting performance and wellbeing.

• Operational leadership – experience leading a service, programme or complex workflow with multiple people, deadlines and handovers.

• Children's services experience – in fostering, children's social care or a closely related setting, with a sound understanding of safeguarding and professional accountability.

• Training confidence – experience planning and delivering engaging adult learning, workshops or group training.

• Partnership skills – experience building productive relationships across organisational boundaries and working through operational challenges.

• A relational approach – able to hold warm, purposeful and appropriately challenging conversations with people from a wide range of backgrounds.

• Strong organisation and judgement – able to prioritise, delegate, manage dependencies and recognise what needs closer oversight or escalation.

• Digital and data confidence – comfortable using CRM and workflow systems, interpreting delivery information and turning insight into action.

The way you work matters

• Children first – you keep children's needs, relationships and long-term outcomes at the centre of decisions.

• Warm and reflective – you build genuine relationships, remain curious about your own impact and welcome feedback.

• Courageous and accountable – you name concerns, make decisions, follow through and own mistakes.

• Collaborative – you share learning generously while maintaining clear accountability.

• Adaptable – you are comfortable in a small, ambitious organisation where roles and systems continue to evolve.

Bonus points for

• Lived experience of the care system.

• Training or experience in motivational interviewing, systemic practice, coaching or another relational approach.

• Experience of foster carer recruitment, initial visits, assessment, prep groups, panel or post-approval support.

• Experience commissioning, coordinating or quality-assuring ISWs, associates or other independent practitioners.

• A practice educator, adult-teaching or training qualification, or substantial equivalent experience.

• Experience scaling a service across regions or working with a dispersed team and multiple delivery partners.

• Project, budget, contract, risk or resource-management experience.

• Experience of co-production, service design or continuous improvement.

WHAT IS IN IT FOR YOU

Joining Now Foster means being part of something different. We are small, ambitious and innovative, and you will have genuine influence over how Weekenders grows. You will stay close to practice and impact without carrying a statutory caseload.

You will join a supportive, collaborative team that cares about doing excellent work in a sustainable and humane way. We work a 37.5-hour week and trust people to manage their time with balance. The programme sometimes requires evening work, weekend training days or travel, and we flex working time around those commitments.

• Salary from £40,000.

• 28 days of annual leave plus bank holidays.

• Home-based working with regular co-working and team days.

• Travel and reasonable work expenses covered in line with Now Foster policy.

• The tools and technology you need to work effectively.

• Workplace pension scheme

• The opportunity to help build a bold, lasting and more relational approach to fostering.
   

We know strong candidates do not always meet every desirable criterion. If the purpose of the role excites you and your experience gives you a strong foundation for the essentials, we encourage you to apply.

RECRUITMENT PROCESS – Key dates and how to apply

• Applications close – Sunday 20 September 2026 at 23:30
• First-round interviews – Online planned for Monday 28 and Tuesday 29 September 2026
• Role play – For candidates progressing to the second round, before the second interview. 30 mins, completed online with one of our Weekenders.
• Second-round interviews– In person planned for Tuesday 6 and Wednesday 7 October 2026 (reasonable travel expenses covered)

Early application is encouraged. We may close the advert before 20 September if we receive a sufficient number of strong applications.

HOW TO APPLY

Please apply through the Charity Jobs listing by the closing date. Candidates invited to interview will receive further information about the format and preparation in advance.

You must have the right to work in the UK. Appointment is subject to current registration with Social Work England, a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check and our other safer recruitment requirements.

We recognise that candidates may use generative AI tools to support their application. This is acceptable, but your application must remain an authentic reflection of your own experience and motivation. Please tell us if and how you used AI as part of preparing it.

As a small charity unfortunately we do not have capacity to respond to unsuccessful candidates or offer feedback at the application stage. Please assume you have been unsuccessful on this occasion if you do not hear from us before the interview dates.

OUR COMMITMENT TO EQUALITY 

Now Foster is committed to being an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences. Recruitment decisions are made using fair, objective and transparent criteria, and we will make reasonable adjustments so the process is accessible.

If you want to help grow a pioneering programme, develop a thoughtful team and create more lasting relationships for children and young people, we would love to hear from you.