An exciting opportunity has arisen at Oaklands College for an Industry Placement & Work Experience Officer to support the delivery and development of high-quality industry placements and work experience opportunities for our students.
Oaklands Education Group is a vibrant, diverse and learning-centred community with over 100 years of transformational impact. We are committed to preparing students for the world of work by building strong employer partnerships and delivering meaningful, real-world experiences that support future success.
This is a varied and rewarding role combining employer engagement, student support and placement management. You will work closely with employers, curriculum teams, and students to ensure all placements are meaningful, safe, and aligned to curriculum outcomes.
You will play a crucial role in enabling students to develop the skills, confidence, and experience needed to succeed in the modern workforce.
Build and maintain strong relationships with employers to secure meaningful placement opportunities
Develop new employer partnerships across a wide range of sectors
Work with internal teams to deliver employer engagement events and activities
Promote wider college services including apprenticeships and training
Manage a caseload of students, matching them to relevant placement opportunities
Prepare students for placements through workshops and guidance sessions
Monitor student progress, attendance, and development while on placement
Support students with additional needs, including SEND and EHCPs
Carry out employer checks, risk assessments, and ensure all placements meet safeguarding and health & safety requirements
Ensure all documentation and processes are compliant and audit-ready
Maintain knowledge of safeguarding requirements and apply best practice at all times
Maintain accurate records using systems such as Grofar
Monitor progress against placement targets and quality standards
Collect feedback from students and employers to drive improvement
Support reporting for internal and external stakeholders
Work closely with curriculum teams, support services, and external partners
Contribute to quality improvement plans and service development
Stay up to date with T Level requirements and industry placement expectations
Level 2 English and Maths (or equivalent)
Level 3 qualification or above (desirable)
Willingness to undertake safeguarding training
Experience working with young people in education, training, or employer engagement
Proven experience in employer engagement, partnerships, or customer-facing roles
Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
Excellent communication skills for engaging with students, employers, and staff
Confident using Microsoft Office and digital systems
Strong relationship-builder with a proactive approach
Organised and resilient, able to adapt to changing priorities
Passionate about supporting young people’s progression and success
Committed to safeguarding, equality, and inclusion
Able to work independently and collaboratively across teams
We want you to feel valued, supported, and inspired when you come to work. Our benefits package is designed with your wellbeing in mind:
Generous holiday allowance – 30 days plus bank holidays
Local Government Pension Scheme
Free onsite gym at St Albans campus
Free parking
Cycle to Work scheme and discounted travel
Ongoing CPD and training opportunities
Access to Adult Community Learning courses
Employee assistance programme and mental health support
Staff development days and celebration awards
Oaklands College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults. All staff are expected to share this commitment, and this role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check.
We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds.
