Student Funding Advisor

As our Student Finance Advisor, you will play a vital role in helping students overcome financial barriers to education by providing high-quality information, advice and guidance on the financial support available at Barnsley College. Working as part of the Student Funding team, you will support prospective and current students to access a range of funding schemes, including the Learner Support Fund, bursaries, childcare support and other financial assistance programmes. You will be at the heart of ensuring students receive the support they need to start, stay and succeed in their studies. You will take an active role in assessing applications, determining eligibility for support and making funding recommendations in line with College procedures and funding regulations. Working closely with students, parents/carers, curriculum staff and external agencies, you will provide practical advice on financial wellbeing, budgeting and money management, helping students to make informed decisions and develop greater financial confidence. The role also involves monitoring and recording funding activity, maintaining accurate records and contributing to audits, financial returns and reporting processes. Using data to understand the impact of financial support on student retention, achievement and success, you will help ensure the College continually improves its financial support offer and delivers an excellent student experience. Building strong relationships will be an important part of your day-to-day work. You will work collaboratively with Student Services teams, curriculum departments, external agencies and other key stakeholders to identify students who may be at risk of withdrawal due to financial difficulties and ensure appropriate support is put in place. You will also contribute to student inductions, awareness campaigns, funding events and financial literacy activities across the College. This opportunity offers the chance to make a genuine difference to students' lives by helping them overcome financial challenges and access opportunities that support their educational journey. If you are passionate about supporting learners and want to be part of a service that removes barriers and changes lives, this is an exciting opportunity to join our team.

We're looking for a proactive, organised and student-centred individual who is passionate about supporting learners to achieve their goals. You will have experience of providing advice, guidance or support in a customer-focused environment and enjoy helping people overcome challenges. You will be confident in assessing information, making fair and balanced decisions and explaining those decisions clearly and professionally. Strong communication skills are essential, as you will regularly work with students, parents/carers, colleagues and external organisations, often discussing sensitive financial circumstances with empathy and discretion. You'll have excellent organisational skills, be comfortable managing competing priorities and work accurately with detailed information and data. You will enjoy working collaboratively with colleagues and partners to ensure students receive the support they need and will be committed to delivering an excellent student experience. Most importantly, you'll be approachable, solutions-focused and motivated by making a positive difference to students' lives through high-quality financial support, advice and guidance. Below is a list of some of the key skills, qualifications and experience we are seeking for this exciting opportunity. Essential Skills, Experience and Qualifications

• Level 3 or equivalent in a relevant qualification
• GCSE Maths and English (or equivalent Level 2 qualification)
• Willing to participate in and undertake training as necessary
• Two years of successful experience of financially supporting learners in an FE setting
• Two years' experience developing successful working relationships with internal and external agencies
  
  We offer substantial annual leave entitlement (Up to 47 days per year including bank and public holidays)
• Holiday purchase scheme to buy additional annual leave days
• Local Government Pension Scheme - with a generous 19.2% employer contribution!
• We invest in our people through funded CPD opportunities, regular staff development training and paid volunteering days
• Career advancement opportunities with tailored support for staff to progress
• Free Barnsley College courses to support your professional and personal development (subject to approval)
• 24/7 access to same day appointments with a GP
• Exclusive discounts and cashback for retail, dining and leisure as part of YouatWork
• Access to health cash plans as members of the Westfield Health Scheme or Health Shield
• Discounted college gym membership with onsite facilities
• Supporting employee mental health through access to free counselling services and the Foundations App
• Discounts schemes for greener travel including Northern Rail, Trainline and Cycle to Work
• Free Microsoft Office 365 for personal use on up to five machines
• Access to discounted hair and beauty therapies at our onsite salon
• On site subsidised Starbucks and food outlets offering a variety of dining options
• Free breakfast provided daily for all staff members
• Our shared purpose - We believe in transforming the lives of both our learners and staff
• Employees can enrol on a Barnsley College course of their choice free of charge, supporting both professional and personal development (subject to approval)
The Barnsley College Advantage When you join us, you can expect to benefit from The Barnsley College Advantage. This is the advantage of