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We are looking for a dedicated part time Careers and Progression Adviser to join our Inclusion Service, supporting young people—particularly those who are vulnerable or at risk—to overcome barriers and progress into education, employment or training.

This is a varied and rewarding role where you’ll work directly with young people aged 16–24, helping them raise their aspirations, build confidence, and take positive next steps in their lives.

The Role

As a Careers and Progression Adviser, you will:

• Deliver high-quality careers education, information, advice and guidance in schools, colleges and community settings
• Provide targeted support to young people at risk of becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training)
• Work closely with vulnerable groups, including those with SEND, care experience, or involvement with youth services
• Manage your own caseload, supporting individuals through tailored interventions and progression planning
• Lead or contribute to projects and group activities that build skills, confidence and ambition
• Work collaboratively with schools, families, and multi-agency partners to achieve the best outcomes

You will be part of a supportive team of qualified advisers, sharing knowledge and contributing your own expertise.

The Ideal Candidate

We’re looking for someone who is passionate about supporting young people and can build strong, trusting relationships.

Qualifications

• Level 6 Diploma in Career Guidance and Development (or equivalent)

You will bring:

• Experience delivering advice and guidance to young people, especially those facing barriers or at risk
• The ability to engage, motivate and challenge young people to achieve positive outcomes
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Experience working with partner agencies and in multi-agency environments
• Knowledge of education pathways, employment opportunities and local labour market trends
• Understanding of safeguarding, equality and the challenges facing disadvantaged young people
• A proactive, organised and flexible approach to managing a caseload

Please ensure that you read the full job profile attached for the details and expectations of this role, paying particular attention the section 'Who is the person' as you will need to refer to this when completing your Personal statement.

Working Arrangements: You will be required to work at least 2 days a week in the office or in education settings

Contact Details for an Informal Discussion: If you have any questions, or would like an informal discussion about the role, please contact Lauren Bumstead - lauren.bumstead@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

About Portsmouth City Council

Portsmouth City Council is a unique organisation, committed to making a difference, and is guided by core values that set who we are as people, what we stand for, and how we act.

We are committed to our values of respect, integrity, collaboration, inclusivity and being people-focussed. These values set out how we can contribute to the success of the council and our own success as individuals. Learn more about our values and behaviours.

Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)

As part of Local Government Reorganisation, current plans will see Portsmouth City Council combine with the district and borough councils of Fareham, Gosport and Havant and parts of East Hampshire and Winchester district councils to form a new, larger unitary authority for south east Hampshire.

We are working towards an implementation date of 1st April 2028, known as vesting day, subject to Parliamentary approval.Until then, we remain focused on maintaining continuity, supporting our workforce, and continuing to deliver excellent services to our residents throughout the transition to the new unitary authority.

This is an exciting time to join us, offering the opportunity to contribute to organisational transformation, develop your career, and help shape future services for our communities.

More information about Local Government Reorganisation can be found on our website: https://www.portsmouth.gov.uk/services/council-and-democracy/your-council/devolution-and-lgr/

Application process

We anonymise applications during application & shortlisting to ensure only relevant information is considered.

As part of your application, we ask that you complete a personal statement, this statement is crucial and is where you must demonstrate how you meet the requirements of the job against each of the points described in the 'Who is the Person' points on the Job Profile using examples from your experience or transferable skills. This might be through qualifications or descriptive examples from your work / personal experience.

We are a disability confident employer and Armed Forces Covenant gold standard. More information can be found at Equality, diversity and inclusion - Careers portal

We are committed to offering an interview to all those candidates that qualify under our corporate commitments and meet the minimum criteria, however, for roles that receive a large number of applications, we will select the candidates that best meet the minimum criteria.

You will need to demonstrate that you have the Right to Work in the UK. No post will be offered without it.

Please note : We are not able to offer sponsorship for this position.

Should you require any support in completing the application form please contact recruit@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or call the recruitment team on 023 92 616 800.

Safeguarding

Portsmouth City Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and young people, and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Every post is subject to PCC and Portsmouth Safeguarding Children Partnership safer recruitment procedures.

Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) at Standard/Enhanced level will be required prior to any offer of employment and this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Please read the relevant DBS privacy notice before submitting any information.

Should you require any support in completing the application form please contact recruit@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or call the recruitment team on 023 92 616 800.