ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF UNIVERSITY GUIDANCE

Role Overview 

The Assistant Director of University Guidance & Careers supports the planning and delivery of high-quality advice, guidance, and support to pupils, parents, staff, and visiting university representatives regarding subject choices, career pathways, and university applications. This includes developing external partnerships to enhance opportunities for pupils. 

Reporting Line: This role reports to the Senior Master / Director of University Guidance & Careers, ensuring full alignment with the strategic vision and guidance provided by them. 

About us:

St. Paul’s was founded in 1926 and was the first school in South America to receive accreditation from the UK government as a British School Oversees. Fully coeducational, with about 1,000 pupils, aged from 3 to 18, it is a school with history and tradition, but which embraces innovation, contemporary values and the latest in digital learning. We are a world-class school, and an international member of HMC and IAPS, and a member of COBIS and the LAHC. We are proud of our local, national and international reputation and we constantly strive to improve the opportunities for our pupils and staff. Our recent BSO inspection judged us as a leading British School overseas, and you can download the report from our website. Our exceptional facilities place teaching and learning at the heart of the school.

Watch a video of the school:

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

University Guidance 

• Support the development and implementation of a structured university guidance programme for pupils and parents (Forms 1–Upper Sixth). 

• Ensure staff are up to date with global university admission policies (UK, USA, Canada, Brazil, and Europe). 

• Oversee university applications, including teacher references, predicted grades, and supporting documentation. 

• Coordinate preparation for competitive university entry (Oxbridge, Ivy League, medical/law schools), including mock interviews and enrichment programmes. 

• Manage relationships with university admissions officers and represent the school at key conferences (e.g. IACAC, UCAS, CDI Careers Workshop). 

• Provide guidance on standardised tests (SAT, ACT, BMAT, LNAT, IELTS, etc.) and facilitate examination access where possible. 

• Maintain and update university destinations and admissions data. 

• Support applicants requiring scholarships and bursaries through the application process.  

Careers Guidance 

• Work with staff (PSHE Coordinator, Head of Sixth Form) to integrate careers guidance into the curriculum. 

• Organise annual careers events, including a Careers Fair and industry talks with alumni. 

• Manage work shadowing, placements, and mentorship opportunities for pupils. 

• Provide careers and university guidance at parent consultation events. 

Departmental Responsibilities 

• Manage the departmental budget and development plan. 

• Maintain an updated school university profile to support admissions. 

• Strengthen partnerships with universities and international schools for networking and exchange opportunities. 

• Organise university visits, including annual UK university trips. 

• Lead the Global Exchange Programme to provide pupils with firsthand exposure to British education. 

THIS IS A LOCAL POST

Applications will be considered as they arrive and the school reserves the right to appoint it at any time.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 07th April 2025

Safeguarding

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment. The offer of the role would be made subject to receipt of satisfactory references, proof of relevant qualifications, identification checks and other safeguarding checks (including Internet and Social Media profiles and exposure), an overseas check if appropriate and a pre-placement medical assessment. Proof of entitlement to work in Brazil is also required where necessary.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

• St Paul’s is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We recognise the value of diverse environments and strive to promote a culture in which all pupils, staff and members of the school community are welcomed and supported to fulfil their potential, regardless of their background or personal characteristics. We oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair treatment, embarrassment, discrimination, bullying and harassment.

Essential 

Undergraduate degree 

Strong knowledge of UK and US education systems, with awareness of global university pathways 

Fluency in English; basic Portuguese preferred. 

Desirable 

Postgraduate qualifications , e.g., CDI QCF Level 6 in Careers Guidance). 

Teaching qualification and experience. 

Experience with scholarship/bursary applications. 

Key Attributes 

• Deep understanding of higher education trends and admissions processes. 

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with confidence in public speaking. 

• Ability to build relationships with pupils, parents, staff, and external stakeholders. 

• Commitment to professional development and ethical career guidance practices.