Countryside & Arboriculture Lecturer

About the Role

The Bedford College Group is seeking a dedicated Countryside and Arboriculture Lecturer to join our team at the Shuttleworth Campus in Old Warden. This role is crucial to our mission of supporting students’ success through high-quality education in Countryside Management and Arboriculture.

As a Countryside and Arboriculture Lecturer, your responsibilities will include:

• Course Preparation and Delivery: You will be responsible for preparing, delivering, and assessing a diverse range of Further Education Countryside programs and Arboricultural Short Courses. Your expertise will help shape and guide our students' learning experiences.

• Course Administration: You will handle various administrative tasks related to course management, such as learner registration, assessment planning, exam entries, and leading Countryside Level 2 and 3 courses.

• Curriculum Development: Contributing to the development and enhancement of the curriculum within the Programme Area/Centre will be a key part of your role, ensuring that our courses remain current and effective.

• Professional Development: If you do not currently possess a teaching qualification, there is no need for concern. We are committed to your professional growth and will enroll you in a teacher training qualification as part of your employment.

About You

We are looking for candidates who possess the following qualifications and attributes:

• Educational Background: A degree or equivalent in Countryside Management, Arboriculture, or a related field is required. Additionally, a Level 3 vocational qualification in Countryside or Arboriculture or an equivalent qualification is necessary.

• Experience: Relevant recent experience in the Countryside or Arboriculture industry is crucial. Ideally, you will also have experience as a teacher, trainer, or instructor.

• Skills: You should have the ability to teach students of varying ages and achievement levels, coupled with strong communication skills in face-to-face, telephone, and written interactions.

• Certifications: GCSE Maths and English (grades A-C) or equivalent qualifications are required. A current driving license and access to a vehicle are essential.

• Flexibility: The ability to work evenings and weekends if necessary is expected. Additionally, you should be willing to engage in staff development, including industry updates and related qualifications.

Organizational Values

Successful candidates will demonstrate alignment with The Bedford College Group’s VISION values:

• Valuing Teamwork: We believe in the power of collaboration, respecting each team member’s contributions, and working together to achieve outstanding results.

• Improving Continuously: We are committed to continuous improvement by embracing new ideas, sharing knowledge, reflecting on practices, and learning from each other.

• Student-Centered: Our primary focus is always on doing what is best for our students. We make decisions with the goal of creating positive outcomes and memorable experiences for them.

• Inclusive: We celebrate diversity and recognize that learning from one another enhances our collective growth.

• Open and Caring: We prioritize the wellbeing of our staff, students, and community, fostering an environment of trust, support, and engagement.

• Nurturing Education Excellence: We strive to deliver exceptional educational programs that challenge students and support them in achieving their ambitions.

About Shuttleworth College

Shuttleworth College is renowned for its specialized land-based education, located in the picturesque Old Warden Park near Biggleswade. The college offers programs in agricultural and environmental education, animal sciences, equine studies, and outdoor adventure, all set within a rich landscape of parkland, farmland, lakes, and woodland.

About The Bedford College Group

Formed in 2017 through the merger of Bedford College and Tresham College, The Bedford College Group is the largest education provider in the South East Midlands. With over 15,000 students annually, the Group includes:

• Bedford College

• Central Bedfordshire College

• Tresham College (in Corby, Kettering, and Wellingborough)

• Shuttleworth College

• The Bedford Sixth Form (Bedford’s only dedicated sixth form)

• The Corby Sixth Form (opened in September 2023)

• National College for Motorsport (in partnership with Silverstone race circuit)

The Group also operates community-based Learning Centres in Bedford, Corby, and Kettering, providing IT training and widening access to education.

Safeguarding Commitment

The Bedford College Group is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. Successful candidates will undergo a thorough vetting process, including an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.

Please note that this position is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Candidates barred from working with children should be aware that applying for this post would be a criminal offense.

Application Process

Interviews for this role will be held on September 23, 2024. If you are passionate about educating future professionals in Countryside Management and Arboriculture and meet the criteria outlined above, we encourage you to apply and become a part of our vibrant educational community at The Bedford College Group.

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