Head of student services

Job Description

Head of Student Services

Location: Cheshire Contract: Permanent

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and inspirational leader to take on the role of Head of Student Services, leading a high-performing team responsible for delivering outstanding support, safeguarding, and student life provision.

This is a pivotal senior position where you will shape and enhance the student experience, ensuring all learners feel supported, safe, and empowered to succeed throughout their studies.

This is a live-in role due to the seniority and operational nature of the position.

• The post includes a 3–4 bedroom on-site property, with all utility costs covered

Key Responsibilities

As Head of Student Services, you will:

• Lead and manage a broad range of student support services including safeguarding, welfare, residential provision, transport, and student life
• Drive the delivery of an outstanding student experience, aligned to strategic objectives and continuous improvement
• Act as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL), ensuring robust safeguarding practice and compliance
• Oversee campus safety, security, and critical incident response, making timely operational decisions on student welfare matters
• Lead on residential provision, ensuring high-quality accommodation, strong occupancy levels, and an excellent student experience
• Promote a culture of belonging, inclusion, and positive behaviour across the student community
• Use data and KPIs to monitor performance, improve outcomes, and maximise student success
• Build strong relationships with internal teams, parents, and external partners to enhance support services and reputation
• Lead and inspire teams, setting high standards and driving performance through effective line management

About You

We are looking for a candidate who can demonstrate:

• Significant leadership experience within Further and/or Higher Education, particularly in student support or safeguarding
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation and the Prevent duty
• Experience acting as a Designated or Deputy Safeguarding Lead
• A proven track record of delivering a high-quality student experience and leading change and innovation
• Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence, inspire and manage high-performing teams
• The ability to analyse data and drive decision-making to improve outcomes
• Strong organisational and operational management capability, including budget management and resource planning

What You’ll Bring

• A passion for student wellbeing, safeguarding and success
• The ability to create inclusive, engaging environments where students can thrive
• Strategic thinking combined with hands-on operational delivery

Additional Information

• This role includes participation in an on-site duty management rota, including occasional out-of-hours responsibilities
• The successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check due to the nature of the role