Job Title: Student Support Manager
Location: dBs Institute Bristol, Mitchell Lane
Reports to: Head of Campus
Salary: FTE £30,000 - £35,000 per annum
Hours: 37.5 hrs per week
Contract: Permanent, on-site

ABOUT US

dBs Institute is on a relentless mission to empower creative people by providing the experience, education and opportunities needed to pursue a life in the creative industries. For 25 years we’ve been focused on providing an exceptional educational experience that equips you with the technical skills, theoretical knowledge, and entrepreneurial mindset needed to succeed in a constantly evolving industry. Our goal is to empower you to think critically, approach your work with curiosity, experiment, and take risks to push the boundaries of creative technology.
We’re big believers that innovation flourishes in a community that’s diverse and collaborative. That’s why we’re dedicated to creating an environment that celebrates and supports a wide range of voices and perspectives.
At dBs Institute, we’re nurturing a new generation of creative professionals who will use their skills and passion to make a positive impact on the world.
dBs Institute was acquired by ‘Access Creative College’ (ACC), formerly known as Access to Music, who were founded in 1992. dBs Instite as such are part of Access Education Group which boasts 32 campuses nationwide with over 5,000 students & apprentices across ACC, Access Sport and Access Industry. This allows for a perfect synergy in offering end-to-end post-16 education in the creative industries which allow us to continue making a real difference in the lives of our students.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Student Support Manager’s main objective is to lead the student support offer within the campus, ensuring high-quality provision is provided for all students at dBs Institute Bristol. The role requires effective communication between the support team and the course teams, careful monitoring and triaging of support requirements, management of funding allocations and planning of strategic developments. The role also consists of delivering 1-2-1 support to students.

KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Leadership & Team Management

• Leading the Student Support Team, including:
• Ensuring all support staff undertake appropriate recording and monitoring of student progress
• Managing performance reviews, identifying CPD requirements, and sharing examples of best practice
• Line management and coordination of the Learning Support Facilitator and freelance support staff, including counsellors, mental health mentors, and other DSA-funded personnel
• Working closely with the Head of Campus to oversee and effectively utilise support budgets

1. Student Wellbeing & Pastoral Support

• Providing 1:1 support for students across a range of wellbeing and pastoral needs, including (but not limited to) mental health, emotional resilience, substance misuse, and personal challenges
• Offering a supportive, non-judgemental space and making timely referrals to internal or external support services as needed
• Supporting students to maintain their wellbeing and engagement with study, including conducting formal reviews under the Health & Wellbeing policy where concerns arise
• Supporting the planning and delivery of student induction sessions, wellbeing workshops, campaigns, and events throughout the academic year
• Keeping the Student Hub and other platforms updated with relevant wellbeing, support, and safeguarding information

• Supporting the planning and delivery of study support sessions in collaboration with academic staff to enhance academic and study skills across the student bodyAttending Open Days and other student recruitment events to advise prospective students on available support services

1. Learning Support & Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) Coordination

• Overseeing DSA support, including:
• Allocating support in accordance with DSA funding requirements
• Sourcing assessors and organising diagnostic assessments
• Managing funding allocations and maintaining accurate records for DSA invoicing
• Keeping up to date with DSA-NMH Mandatory Qualifications and Professional Body Membership Criteria for support staff
• Supporting applicants and enrolled students with a wide range of disabilities and long-term conditions, including physical impairments, sensory needs, neurodivergence, and mental health conditions
• Conducting or coordinating risk assessments and access planning to ensure a safe and inclusive learning environment, particularly where specific health or accessibility needs are identified
• Overseeing the timely creation of Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) and implementation of Reasonable Adjustments (supported by the Learning Support Facilitator)
• Following up on applicant disclosures to ensure appropriate support is in place ahead of study
• Ensuring support strategies are appropriate to:
• Quickly and efficiently identify individual needs
• Promote independence and resilience
• Enhance progression opportunities for students