Adult Learning & Development Officer

Description:

Shetland Islands Council invites applications for the role of Adult Learning & Development Officer within its Community Development Team. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute meaningfully to adult education across Shetland by designing and delivering tailored, accessible learning programmes that support personal growth, upskilling, and improved life opportunities for learners.

This career-graded post offers a structured pathway for professional development, making it suitable for both experienced practitioners and candidates looking to grow within the Community Learning and Development (CLD) sector. The successful candidate will be instrumental in supporting adult learners across the region, with a focus on literacy, numeracy, digital skills, family learning, and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages).

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and deliver adult learning programmes that align with learners’ aspirations and community needs

• Focus on key skill areas including literacy, numeracy, digital inclusion, family learning, and ESOL

• Build on learners’ existing strengths, experiences, and ambitions to improve life outcomes

• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to enhance learning access across Shetland

• Work with the Team Leader Community Development to expand the reach and impact of adult education initiatives

• Engage in learner-focused planning, delivery, evaluation, and continuous improvement of adult learning services

Person Specification:

• Passion for community learning and adult development

• Relevant qualifications or a willingness to undertake Council-supported training

• Strong communication and organizational skills

• Ability to work independently and travel across Shetland on short notice (where public transport may be limited)

• Comfortable engaging with a diverse range of adult learners and community partners

• A commitment to equality, inclusion, and community empowerment

Why Join Shetland Islands Council:
This post offers the opportunity to live and work in one of the UK’s most unique and beautiful locations. With a focus on work-life balance, Shetland offers a vibrant culture, modern infrastructure, and a strong sense of community. You’ll have the chance to make a lasting difference in people’s lives through education and empowerment.

Key Benefits:

• Career-graded development with full training and qualifications support

• Distant Islands Allowance of £2859 per annum (pro rata)

• Full-time, permanent contract with job security

• Opportunity to work flexibly and in a supportive team environment

• Interview expenses covered within Shetland

• Based at Solarhus, a central and accessible office in Lerwick

Additional Requirements:

• Preferred candidates must join the PVG Scheme or complete a scheme update

• References from two unrelated individuals are required as part of the application

• No relocation package is available for this role