IAG and Progression Officer

Job Title: IAG and Progression OfficerLocation: Thetford, Norfolk (Hybrid working, with regular workplace visits)Salary: £26,000 per annumHours: Full-time, 37 hours per weekContract: PermanentBenefits:• 28 days of annual leave plus bank holidays (increasing to 33 days with service)• Life assurance• Retail discountsOverviewA "Good" rated Ofsted training provider based in Thetford is seeking an IAG and Progression Officer to join their dedicated team. As a not-for-profit organisation, they are committed to creating a supportive learning environment for young people, helping them acquire the skills they need for further education, apprenticeships, or employment.This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced professional who is passionate about delivering high-quality Information, Advice, and Guidance (IAG) to learners. You will play a key role in progressing learners through their programmes, sourcing job placements, and supporting them in reaching their career or educational goals.Key Responsibilities• Learner Recruitment:o Engage with Local Authorities, NEET teams, schools, colleges, and referral agencies to recruit learners onto vocational programmes.o Act as the first point of contact for prospective learners, conducting initial interviews and completing all eligibility and enrolment processes.o Meet the recruitment targets for all vocational programmes.• Providing IAG:o Deliver high-quality Information, Advice, and Guidance to learners, helping them identify their career progression pathways and further education opportunities.o Work closely with learners to create bespoke Individual Learner Plans (ILPs), tailored to their personal aspirations and career goals.o Conduct regular 1-2-1 progress reviews to support learners in achieving their objectives and completing their programmes.• Sourcing and Managing Job Placements:o Develop relationships with local and national employers to secure job placements and work experience opportunities for learners.o Match learners to suitable placements and ensure they are fully prepared for the workplace.o Provide ongoing support during placements, conducting regular check-ins with both learners and employers to ensure successful outcomes.o Help employers understand their role in supporting learner development, ensuring a positive and productive placement experience.• Progression Support:o Work closely with learners to help them transition to further education, apprenticeships, or employment opportunities.o Network with other agencies, parents, and carers to provide holistic support to learners, ensuring their success both during and after the programme.Essential Skills and Experience• A Level 2 qualification in English and Maths.• Experience in an education or vocational training setting, with an understanding of the challenges in supporting learner progression.• Strong knowledge of IAG principles and the ability to guide learners toward career or educational progression.• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with learners, employers, and stakeholders.• Proven experience in arranging job placements or work experience opportunities for learners.• Knowledge of common ICT software packages (e.g., MS Office, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with a flexible and proactive approach.• A full driving licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes.Additional Information• This role requires regular travel within the local area and occasional travel further afield, which may involve overnight stays.• The role is subject to an enhanced DBS check.If you are passionate about supporting learners in their journey to further education or employment and are looking for a rewarding role with a not-for-profit training provider, we would love to hear from you.