Personal Development Officer (PDO)

Do you love the great outdoors? Are you passionate about inspiring young people to develop their skills and confidence? Join our Multi-Academy Trust as a Personal Development Officer, where you’ll lead exciting activities like residential trips, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and the Combined Cadet Force (CCF). We’re looking for a motivated individual who can engage students, organise impactful programs, and foster their personal growth. If you have experience in outdoor education or youth leadership, we want to hear from you. Apply today and help shape the future of our students!

As a Personal Development Officer, you will play a pivotal role in promoting and coordinating extracurricular activities that contribute to the holistic development of our students. Your primary responsibilities will include leading and managing residential trips, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award program, and the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) within our schools. You will work closely with students, staff, and external partners to ensure the successful delivery of these programs, helping our students to develop essential life skills, confidence, and leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Residentials: Plan, organise, and lead residential trips, ensuring that all activities are safe, engaging, and aligned with the Trust’s ethos.
• Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE): Coordinate the DofE program, including managing enrollment, training, and assessment of students, and liaising with DofE representatives.
• Combined Cadet Force (CCF): Oversee the CCF program, working with staff and cadet leaders to provide a structured and enriching experience for participants.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with students, parents, and external organisations to enhance program delivery.
• Ensure all activities comply with relevant policies, regulations, and safeguarding requirements.
• Monitor and evaluate the impact of personal development programs, reporting to senior leadership and trustees as required.

What We Are Looking For

• A passionate and proactive individual with experience in leading youth programs, outdoor education, or similar roles.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and engage young people.
• Experience with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and/or CCF is highly desirable.
• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people.
• Flexibility to work outside normal school hours, including evenings and weekends, as required.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a collaborative and supportive team dedicated to making a positive impact on students' lives.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression within the Trust.
• Access to a range of resources and support to help you succeed in your role.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about developing young people and have the skills and experience to thrive in this role, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your completed application form outlining your suitability for the role by Friday 13th September. Applications should be submitted to Dominique Stead, HR Business Partner at recruitment@greatschoolstrust.com.

Should you wish to discuss this role in more detail, please contact Ted Roberts at t.roberts@greatschoolstrust.com

The Great Schools Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check will be required for the successful candidate.