Job Overview: Head of Undergraduate and PGCE Office

The University of Cambridge, globally renowned as one of the premier academic institutions for education, research, and innovation, is seeking a Head of Undergraduate and PGCE Office. This leadership role focuses on ensuring the smooth administration of undergraduate and PGCE teacher training programs, contributing to the exceptional academic experience Cambridge students expect.

As the Head of the Undergraduate and PGCE Office, you’ll oversee key operations like admissions, course management, student placements, and assessments for these programs. You’ll manage a team of administrators and collaborate closely with academic leaders to ensure the programs align with the highest quality standards and comply with university policies and external regulatory requirements.

This is a strategic position with broad responsibilities, including acting as the Designated Safeguarding Officer, contributing to marketing and publicity efforts, and preparing for Ofsted inspections. As part of Cambridge’s commitment to academic excellence, your work in this role will directly shape the educational journey of future generations of students and educators.

Why Join Cambridge?

Cambridge offers a unique work environment that prides itself on balancing deep respect for academic tradition with a spirit of innovation and progress. Not only will you contribute to one of the world’s most highly regarded education programs, but you will also have access to comprehensive benefits, professional growth opportunities, and a genuine commitment to staff wellbeing. With perks including 36 days of annual leave (including public holidays), excellent family-friendly policies, a defined contribution pension scheme, and support for relocation, the role offers a rewarding work-life balance in one of the most dynamic and prestigious institutions in the world.

Advice for Applicants: An International Education Perspective

As a prospective applicant, it’s essential to consider the role in the context of Cambridge’s unique position as a global leader in higher education and the international perspective Cambridge embodies. Here are some tips to help your application stand out:

1. Understand and Align with Cambridge’s Legacy:

– Cambridge has shaped education for nearly 800 years, producing world-class research and developing students who become leaders in their respective fields. Frame your experience in ways that demonstrate how you will contribute to and enhance this legacy. Highlight your ability to uphold high academic standards and support a diverse student body.

2. Showcase Your Administrative and Leadership Skills:

– Emphasize practical examples of your experience managing complex administrative operations, especially in education. Discuss your success in managing teams, liaising across multiple stakeholders, handling challenging scenarios, and ensuring compliance with quality assurance procedures. Specific examples of your contributions to process efficiencies or team leadership will resonate.

3. Demonstrate Commitment to International Educational Excellence:

– Cambridge is a global university. Showcase your ability to adapt to and respect a multicultural environment, international academic standards, and diverse educational frameworks. Highlight your understanding of international safeguarding guidelines and teacher training models if applicable.

4. Communicate Your Student-Centric Approach:

– The role emphasizes improving the student experience. Share your understanding of student needs, especially in the context of teaching and learning. Provide specifics on how you’ve supported education programs or worked toward accessible, high-quality learning environments for students from diverse backgrounds.

5. Tailor Your Application:

– When applying, provide evidence of the skills listed in the job requirements: senior administrative experience, staff management, regulatory compliance, and student support. Use concrete examples to demonstrate your knowledge of safeguarding, governance, and quality assurance processes. Make sure to address every requirement listed.

6. Research the University and Education Landscape:

– Familiarize yourself with Cambridge’s teacher training programs and the broader UK education sector (e.g., Ofsted inspection processes, safeguarding standards, and compliance expectations). This will not only help you tailor your application but also prepare you for the interview stage.

7. Show Enthusiasm for Collaboration and Professionalism:

– The role requires working closely with academic, administrative, and external partners. Showcase your interpersonal and collaborative skills, and provide examples of how you’ve successfully engaged with internal teams or external stakeholders in your previous roles.

8. Don’t Be Deterred by Geography:

– International candidates should reach out to the Faculty’s HR team to clarify questions about relocation support. Cambridge actively encourages diversity and inclusion, so your international background may bring a valuable perspective to the role.

9. Leverage Your Educational Credentials:

– Stress your academic qualifications and how these align with the role. If you hold a degree or vocational experience equivalent to Level 6 qualifications, ensure you clarify how this has equipped you to lead in an academic administration setting.

Next Steps

To apply, ensure your CV and cover letter reflect your leadership experience in academic or general administration, demonstrating how your skills align with Cambridge’s mission. Tailor both documents to directly address the role requirements, providing real-world examples of your impact in previous roles. Informal inquiries are encouraged (contact Thury Agustsdottir, BOM@educ.cam.ac.uk), and the Faculty’s HR team is available for questions or application support at hr@educ.cam.ac.uk.

Cambridge is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity-ensure your application reflects your alignment with the inclusive academic environment they strive to foster. Start your journey today and become part of a world-leading institution that shapes education globally!