Derby College Group (DCG) is one of the largest further education (FE) providers in the East Midlands of England, serving over 25,000 learners annually across multiple campuses in Derby and surrounding areas. Established through mergers of local colleges, DCG focuses on vocational training, apprenticeships, and higher education (HE) courses, bridging the gap between school and employment. Jobs at Derby College Group span teaching, support, and management roles, making it an attractive employer for those passionate about practical education.
With a strong emphasis on employability, DCG partners with local industries like Rolls-Royce and Toyota, offering real-world training. This environment fosters dynamic careers where staff contribute to student success in fields like engineering, health & social care, and business.
Derby College Group traces its roots to the early 20th century with institutions like Derby Technical College (founded 1847) and Derby Municipal College. In 1990, it became Derby Tertiary College, evolving into Derby College in 1997. The 'Group' status came in 2018 after acquiring Broxtowe College and Nottingham College sites, expanding its footprint. Today, DCG operates from Joseph Wright Centre, Matlock, and Broomfield campuses, emphasizing innovation in FE and HE.
This history shapes its job culture, prioritizing experienced professionals who understand vocational pathways. Careers here have grown with government funding for apprenticeships, creating stable opportunities since the 2010s levy introduction.
Jobs at Derby College Group include lecturer positions in subjects like construction, hospitality, and digital technologies, as well as curriculum managers, learning support assistants, and administrative staff. The college employs over 1,000 people, with vacancies often listed on their careers page. Popular roles include apprenticeship trainers, who guide students toward qualifications like NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications).
For details on university job types, see our comprehensive guide. DCG also offers part-time and fixed-term contracts, ideal for building experience.
DCG delivers BTECs (Business and Technology Education Council qualifications), T-Levels, and HNCs/HNDs (Higher National Certificates/Diplomas) up to degree level in partnership with universities. Research focuses on applied projects, such as sustainable engineering with local businesses, rather than theoretical PhDs.
Staff engage in collaborative research, like green skills initiatives funded by the UK government, enhancing CVs with practical outputs.
Further Education (FE): Post-16 education focusing on vocational skills, distinct from university higher education.
Apprenticeships: Paid work-based training combining employment with study, leading to qualifications.
PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education): Qualification for teaching in FE/HE sectors.
NVQ (National Vocational Qualification): Competency-based qualification demonstrating workplace skills.
For teaching roles, a bachelor's degree in the subject area is minimum; master's or PhD preferred for HE lecturers. Teaching qualifications like PGCE (FE/HE), Level 4 Certificate in Education, or DTLLS (Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector) are essential. Industry professionals may qualify via A1 Assessor awards.
Support roles require GCSEs or equivalent, with degrees for specialist positions like counselors.
Expertise in vocational subjects is key, e.g., CAD for engineering lecturers or care standards for health tutors. DCG values applied research, like curriculum development for net-zero goals or digital literacy projects. Publications in FE journals or conference presentations strengthen applications.
5+ years industry or teaching experience is favored, especially with Ofsted (Office for Standards in Education) inspected successes. Grant-winning, apprenticeship delivery, or curriculum design experience stands out. Publications, though not mandatory, and student progression data are bonuses.
Core skills include excellent communication, adaptability to diverse learners, digital tool proficiency (e.g., Moodle VLE), and safeguarding knowledge. Competencies like team collaboration, student-centered teaching, and data analysis for performance metrics are vital.
Search vacancies on DCG's website or higher ed jobs boards. Submit CV and personal statement addressing person specification. Tips: Use STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for examples; prepare for observed teaching; research DCG's strategic plan. Follow up post-interview. For CV advice, see how to write a winning academic CV.
DCG holds the Disability Confident Leader status and Stonewall Diversity Champion award. Initiatives include BAME (Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic) mentoring, gender pay transparency, and accessible campuses. They exceed targets for disabled staff recruitment and run Pride events.
DCG offers 42 days holiday, flexible working, and employee assistance programs. Campuses feature modern facilities like simulation suites and gyms. Staff enjoy social committees, professional development days, and community events, fostering a supportive atmosphere in Derby's vibrant city.
Jobs at Derby College Group offer rewarding opportunities in vocational education. Explore more higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com.
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