Careers Lead - Harbour School

Careers Lead, Harbour School Dorset

£33,699 - £36,363 full time equivalent; actual salary £28,839 - £31,118 for term time only working. Plus, generous sick pay and pension scheme.

37 hours per week (8.30am - 4.30pm Monday-Thursday, 8.30am - 1pm on Fridays), Term-time only

Compassionate. Supportive. Purposeful.

Do you believe every young person deserves to step into their future with confidence, clarity, and hope?

At Harbour School Dorset, we’re looking for a Careers Lead who can help students discover their strengths, understand their choices, and take meaningful steps toward the world beyond school.

Our students all have their own stories - and we honour every one of them. We’re searching for someone who sees potential where others might see barriers, who listens with empathy, and who celebrates progress in all its forms. If you know that a single positive conversation can change a young person’s direction for life, we’d love to meet you…

• Someone who communicates with warmth, clarity and confidence.
• Calm, patient and able to stay grounded when things feel challenging.
• Naturally able to build trust with young people, families, colleagues and partners.
• Organised, reliable and comfortable juggling different priorities.
• Experienced in supporting young people or providing careers guidance.
• Either already holding a Level 4 Careers/Advice & Guidance qualification, or open to training toward it (Level 6 desirable).
• Confident working inclusively, especially with vulnerable and SEND students.
• Someone who truly believes every young person can thrive - sometimes they just need the right person walking alongside them.

• Leading a careers programme that inspires students to explore their strengths, dreams and next steps.
• Offering kind, impartial 1:1 and group guidance that helps young people feel understood and supported.
• Working closely with vulnerable and SEND students to make transitions smoother and more confident.
• Guiding students through key milestones, including Year 9 options and post‑16 choices.
• Creating meaningful opportunities - work experience, workplace visits, employer encounters and events that open doors.
• Building supportive partnerships with employers, colleges, training providers and community groups.
• Celebrating student progress by tracking destinations and sharing successes with senior leaders.
• Managing careers platforms and keeping clear, accurate records that help the programme grow.
• Working collaboratively with families, staff and external agencies to ensure every student feels seen, valued and hopeful about their future.