Join WaterBear – The College of Music

WaterBear is a pioneering music college with campuses in Brighton, Sheffield and Online. As a College of Falmouth University, we offer a unique, flexible approach to music education, supporting a diverse student body of aspiring and professional musicians.

We are now seeking a Student Services Manager to lead our student support provision and help shape the student experience at our Brighton campus.

Location: Brighton 

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week

Salary: £33,000 per annum

Start Date: 1st September 2025

Reports to: Head of Education (Brighton)

About the Role

As Student Services Manager, you will lead a dedicated team to deliver high-quality student support services, including wellbeing, learning support, safeguarding, and academic study support. You’ll play a key role in fostering a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment for all students.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage student support services across campus
• Oversee wellbeing, learning support, and counselling provision
• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead and manage safeguarding protocols
• Collaborate with academic and support teams to enhance student engagement and retention
• Design and evaluate support programmes using data and feedback
• Manage team performance, training, and development
• Ensure compliance with relevant policies and regulations

Person Specification

Essential:

• 3+ years’ experience in student support within higher education
• Proven leadership in managing student services teams
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organisational skills
• Strong initiative, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities
• Commitment to inclusivity, empathy, and student wellbeing

Desirable:

• Understanding of the music industry or creative portfolio careers
• Experience supporting diverse or non-traditional learners
• Mental health first aid or trauma-informed care training
• Experience in liaising with external agencies (e.g. council services, police, mental health teams)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Relevant Master’s or BA (hons) degree
• Relevant wellbeing, counselling or learning support qualification

Why Join WaterBear?

• Be part of a growing, innovative institution shaping the future of music education
• Work in a supportive, student-centred environment
• Opportunities for professional development and coaching
• Help build a culture that values wellbeing, creativity, and collaboration

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

Closing Date

13 July 2025

We reserve the right to close the application process early if we receive sufficient applications