Location: Sunderland
Salary: FTE £24,575 - £28,736 (salary will be pro rata to term time only)
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Term Time Only
About Springboard
Springboard is a registered charity dedicated to building sustainable, thriving communities by equipping people with the essential skills they need for work and life. Through our Study Programmes, Apprenticeships and Adult Skills courses, we create confident, employable, life‑ready learners.
With almost 50 years of experience, we are proud to be an Ofsted GOOD provider. We are committed to delivering high‑quality learning experiences, adapting to individual needs, and maintaining a culture of support, respect and ambition. We also hold the Matrix Award for Information, Advice and Guidance and the Better Health at Work Gold Standard.
The Role
We are seeking a skilled, motivated and resilient Workshop Skills Instructor to deliver engaging, hands-on learning for learners in alternative education.
This role focuses on using practical, workshop-based activities to re-engage learners who may have disengaged from traditional education. You will support learners to develop technical skills alongside confidence, resilience, and positive behaviours for learning and employment.
The ideal candidate will have strong practical experience and a passion for helping young people succeed through hands-on, meaningful activity. You will deliver sessions focused on hands-on engineering projects, supporting learners to create, assemble and repair items while developing core employability skills.
Key Responsibilities
Learner Engagement and Support
· Build positive, consistent relationships that promote engagement, confidence and trust.
· Support learners to access learning through practical, activity-based approaches.
· Respond to behaviour in a calm, relational and non-judgemental manner.
Workshop Delivery and Skills Development
· Plan, deliver and assess engaging sessions in engineering, manufacturing and basic technology workshop skills.
· Teach safe and effective use of tools, equipment and workshop machinery.
· Support learners to complete hands-on engineering and design projects.
· Develop learners’ understanding of materials, tools, and basic mechanical concepts.
Teaching, Learning and Progress
· Adapt delivery to meet a range of learning needs, including learners who may be disengaged or require additional support.
· Monitor, assess and record learner progress, recognising both skills development and personal growth.
· Support learners to develop problem-solving skills, teamwork and independence.
· Encourage achievement, progression and a positive attitude to learning.
Holistic Support and Collaboration
· Work collaboratively with teaching and support staff, and external partners.
· Contribute to individual learning plans and support strategies.
· Provide clear and constructive feedback to learners and stakeholders.
· Support learners throughout their journey from engagement to progression.
Safeguarding and Wellbeing
· Promote and safeguard the welfare of all learners.
· Identify and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns.
· Maintain a safe, organised and supportive workshop environment always.
Professional Responsibilities
· Engage in continuous professional development.
· Maintain up-to-date knowledge of workshop practices and health & safety requirements.
· Complete administrative tasks including tracking progress and maintaining records.
Person Specification
Essential
· Practical experience in engineering, mechanical work, fabrication, manufacturing or a related field.
· Experience working with young people, particularly those who may be disengaged from education.
· Ability to build positive, consistent relationships with learners.
· Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
· Ability to remain calm and effective when managing behaviour.
· Excellent understanding of workshop health & safety.
· Commitment to inclusive, learner-centred practice.
· Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
· Up-to-date digital skills.
· Minimum Level 2 Functional Skills in Maths and English.
Desirable
· Teaching or training qualification (or willingness to work towards).
· Experience within alternative provision.
· Experience supporting learners with SEMH or SEND needs.
· Knowledge of relational or trauma-informed approaches.
· Relevant qualification in engineering, manufacturing or a related vocational area.
Additional Information
Springboard is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all learners. All staff are expected to share this commitment. Safeguarding checks will be carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education, including an online search for shortlisted applicants.
This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and two satisfactory references.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. If you require adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will support you.
Pay: £24,575.00-£28,736.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company pension
- Free parking
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Sick pay
Work Location: In person
