Creative learning manager

Starting date: 3rd October 2022

The key aim for this role is to develop and deliver an inspiring programme of creative writing workshops, longer projects and regular drop in sessions at this ambitious new charity. We are looking for an individual who is prepared to push the boundaries on creating fun and inspiring creative writing workshops for children aged 7-18. Ideally the applicant will have experience in delivering creative writing workshops. The role is based in Bridport, Dorset.

BACKGROUND

We are a registered charity in West Dorset and we offer FREE creative writing workshops to children aged 7-18. Our focus is on those children who are most under resourced, who normally do not have access to these types of things but deserve them just as much as anyone else. We are housed in a real bank in Bridport, but instead of money we deal in the currency of stories, and at the back of the store, if you know where to look is a secret door that leads to the writing centre where the real magic happens. We work with both primary and secondary schools during term time providing one-off story writing workshops with the end result being published authors or broadcast podcasts! We believe in child led learning, with as close to one to one mentoring as we can provide. We also offer after school clubs for children to develop their writing and get involved in longer workshop projects that are created with industry professionals to provide wonderful real world outcomes. How about writing a campaign for a cause you feel strongly about and then seeing it made by professionals so you can present it to local government or businesses. What if you wrote some song lyrics, and then are able to see a real musical artist take your words and make it into a real recording you can share with the world. Or how about you become the lead defence lawyer for a special mock trial in a real court house where your persuasive arguments determine whether your head teacher is guilty or not guilty. The possibilities are endless and at The Bank of Dreams and Nightmares we want to have fun showing children that it all starts with an idea, a story, some words and where that can take you is the exciting part.

THE ROLE

Working closely with the Director the role will be pivotal in creating relationships with schools and developing the inspiring programmes we will offer. You will create and facilitate exceptional creative learning workshops, that we will develop alongside industry professionals and teachers, build effective systems for managing projects from initial idea through to finished product, as well as forging great relationships with children, teachers and parents. Ensuring that children and young people’s ideas and voices are at the heart of what we do. The charity will offer both in school and at the BANK based workshops.

During all our workshops, children and young people benefit from one-to-one mentoring and support from trained volunteers, and from innovative, exciting, and energised delivery from our highly experienced workshop facilitators.

Ideally we are looking for someone with at least 2 years experience in delivering workshops based around creative writing to children and young adults and you will be a specialist in reading and writing, with educational, managerial and administrative experience. You will have experience in working with SEND children. You will recognise creativity in everyone and as a skilled collaborator have experience of managing and co-ordinating workshop programmes and education projects. You will need excellent facilitation skills, project management skills and experience of leading outstanding creative learning workshops.

Please note that this post will require DBS clearance.

About You

Experience:

  • Passionate about improving opportunities and outcomes for children and young people aged 7-18.

  • Minimum two years’ experience of delivering workshops to children and young adults.

  • Experience working with young people who are under-achieving and/or facing disadvantages;

  • Experience of planning and delivering exceptional learning experiences for young people;

  • Experience of working with a range of stakeholders, for example: families, education professionals etc;

Personal Attributes:

  • inspiring and compassionate teacher or writer with passion and ambition for improving outcomes for young people

  • Demonstrable experience of devising and overseeing high quality learning literacy programmes for children and young people aged 7-18.

  • excellent organisation skills

  • flexible and solution-focused approach.

  • Ambitious and passionate about excellent outcomes for young people;

  • Proven ability to communicate with and support young people in their learning;

  • Excellent ability to be a role model to the young people we work with;

  • Exceptional communicator and collaborator:

  • Confident, positive and effective when engaging with people in a variety of contexts;

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills;

  • Flexibility to turn your hand to different tasks and activities as needed;

  • Solution focused, creative problem solver and calm under pressure;

  • Planning in a changing environment, and a high level of organisation;

  • Passionate and focused:

  • Strong identification with our mission and objectives; goes above and beyond;

  • Highly-organised and efficient at managing time and workload; ability to balance both strategic priorities and day-to-day details;

  • Positive, proactive and dedicated approach.


Terms and Conditions:

Title of Post: Creative Learning Manager

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer
Hours: Full time (40 hours per week) mostly Monday - Friday (including evening and weekend work). Salary: £28,000 to £30,000 dependent on experience p.a. + employer pension contribution (currently at 3%)
Contract: This position is permanent subject to funding availability.
The Bank of Dreams and Nightmares is committed to being an Equal Opportunities Employer. Holiday entitlement: 25 days per year + bank holidays.

How to apply:
Send your CV and a covering letter detailing why you are suited to the role (600 words max) to nick@thebankofdreamsandnightmares.org Applications close on 5th August 2022 We will be running a rolling interview process so we strongly advise that you apply as soon as possible.