Job Purpose

To manage and develop library resources and facilities across the Trust in order to support students' academic progress, independent learning, and preparation for higher education. The School Librarian will play a key role in promoting reading, research skills, academic integrity, and EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) representation in all Key Stages. The post holder will also support the academic functions across the Sixth Form.

Key Responsibilities

Library Management and Learning Resource Centre

• Ensure the effective and active supervision of the library as a silent study area, maintaining a strong academic ethos and promoting professional attitudes to learning.
• Audit the library’s stock and collections with a focus on EDI representation academic rigor.
• Maintain and update academic and careers guidance resources, in collaboration with universities and local council libraries.
• Ensure the secure tagging, tracking, and condition of all resources.
• Use systems (e.g. electronic cataloguing and management tools) to monitor stock levels, book loans, and overdue returns.
• Develop and promote independent learning by curating a range of appropriate materials and resources.
• Maintain and improve engaging displays that reflect student diversity and academic focus.

Student Support and Development

• Provide one-to-one and group tutoring as directed by the line manager.
• Support students with reading assessments and testing.
• Assist with monitoring academic progress, attendance, punctuality, and behaviour, especially in the Sixth Form Library.
• Supervise breaktime, lunchtime and until 4pm in the library so that it becomes a welcoming space for all.
• Promote and teach academic integrity, including guidance on plagiarism, referencing, and source evaluation.
• Deliver sessions on how to search for academic sources, reference properly (Harvard, APA, MLA, etc.), and evaluate information critically.

UCAS and Higher Education Support

• Support the UCAS Coordinator with administrative and pastoral aspects of the university application process.
• Organise, maintain, and promote a dedicated reference section for university and career guidance.
• Communicate regularly with students and parents as directed to support the application and transition process.

Leadership and Collaboration

• Train and coordinate student librarians to assist with the daily running of the library and its resources.
• Work closely with teaching staff to ensure resources align with the curriculum.
• Collaborate with pastoral and academic teams to support targeted interventions and monitor individual and group progress.
• Support and promote enrichment activities such as World Book Day, reading challenges, author visits, etc.

Administrative Duties

• Maintain accurate, up-to-date records and databases for library usage and student interactions.
• Prepare and present reports and updates to SLT or relevant stakeholders on library impact and student progress.
• Assist with Open Events, and other College functions as required.

ICT and Equipment Supervision

• Supervise daily use of IT equipment in the library and report any faults.
• Maintain an inventory of devices and ensure they are safely used and stored.

Additional Responsibilities

• • Supervise full classes during teacher absences as required, maintaining focus, behaviour, and academic progress.
  • Support with the coordination and delivery of college events and enrichment programmes.
  • Perform any other duties as directed by the Line Manager, Head of Sixth Form, Headteacher.

Person Specification

Essential

• Strong literacy and communication skills
• Experience working in a library or educational setting
• Knowledge of EDI practices and inclusive educational resources
• Ability to manage and supervise students effectively
• Organised, proactive, and able to work independently and across multiple sites
• ICT literate and familiar with library management systems

Desirable

• Degree in Library and Information Studies or related field
• Experience with UCAS and higher education application processes
• Experience with sixth form or KS5 curriculum
• Knowledge of academic referencing styles (Harvard, APA, etc.)

Working Pattern

• Full time role
• Some evening work required for Open Evening events