Description:
Field Education Liaison Officer: Social Work (Part-time)
Southern Cross Institute (SCI)
Parramatta NSW 2150
About Us
Southern Cross Institute (SCI) aims to provide the highest quality education to students that would enable them to achieve their professional and personal goals. SCI’s modern campus facilities and fully equipped classrooms are designed to support students through engaged learning. We aim to train young learners to graduate who are well-equipped to join the workforce.
Why Join Us?
- Expanding enrolments
- Opportunity for professional development
- Small tight knit team
- Modern campus facilities
- Secure permanent position
- Great location
About the Role
We are inviting expressions of interest from qualified and experienced academic professionals in Social Work courses to join our professional, tight-knit team as the Field Education Liaison Officer. Based in Parramatta, these positions are initially offered on a permanent part-time (0.5 Fractional) basis and are likely to become full-time appointments within the next I year. Please note that the salary for this position will be prorated if it is part-time (0.5 FTE), reflecting a fraction of the full-time equivalent salary.
Position Summary
The Field Education Liaison Officer (FELO) at Southern Cross Institute (SCI) plays a pivotal role in overseeing field education placements. Collaborating closely with the Field Education Coordinator, Supervisor, students, and other staff, this position ensures that placement structures, learning goals, and assessment processes align with the standards and requirements outlined by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). By providing essential support to students during their field education components, the Field Education Liaison Officer facilitates the integration of theory into practice, fosters critical reflection, and promotes the development of skills necessary to address diverse needs and situations creatively. Acting as a liaison between the institute, students, and field placement agencies, this role is dedicated to creating a seamless and enriching experiential learning experience for students.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborate with field placement agencies and academic staff to match students with appropriate field education placements that align with their learning objectives, interests, and AASW requirements;
- Manage all aspects of the placement process, including placement agreements, orientation sessions, site visits, and evaluations, ensuring compliance with AASW guidelines and standards;
- FELO will meet the student and the Supervisor at least twice during the placement on site or online face to face meeting.
- Provide guidance, oversight and support to students throughout their field education placements, including assisting with the development of learning goals, monitoring progress, and addressing any challenges that may arise;
- Cultivate and maintain positive relationships with field placement agencies, supervisors, and other stakeholders to enhance the quality of field education experiences for students and promote ongoing collaboration;
- Stay informed about AASW accreditation requirements and standards for field education, and ensure that all placements meet these standards through regular monitoring, evaluation, and feedback mechanisms;
- Maintain accurate records of student placements, evaluations, and other relevant documentation, and prepare reports as required by the academic institution and AASW;
- Engage in ongoing professional development activities to stay current with best practices in field education and social work pedagogy, and contribute to the continuous improvement of the field education;
- Comply with SCI policies;
- Other duties as required by the Dean.
Essential
- A Master's degree in Social Work or related field, with eligibility for membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
- Eligible for full membership of the AASW
- A minimum of five year full-time post-qualifying practice experience.
- Previous experience in social work practice, field education coordination, or related roles within an academic or social work setting.
- Strong understanding of AASW accreditation standards and requirements for field education in social work.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently, problem-solve, and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in field education practices and course development.
- Willingness to travel to placement sites mid-term and end of term to conduct placement meetings.
- Ability to communicate and work effectively and cooperatively with colleagues from diverse cultural, religious, gender and socio-economic backgrounds.
- A keen awareness of issues impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals and communities in various contexts, and support student learning and engagement with these diverse populations
- Technological literacy and experience in developing online communication tools and previous experience in online education is desirable.
- Evidence of a capacity to contribute to effective administration.
Desirable
- Demonstrated experience applying innovative approaches to pedagogy and/or curriculum design in Field Education.
- Demonstrated evidence of a strong research track record (for career stage) in an area aligned with research strengths in social work practice skills, including evidence of sustained high-quality publications and attraction of external competitive grants.
Equal Opportunity, Diversity and Inclusion
SCI is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from all forms of unlawful discrimination, harassment, bullying, vilification and victimisation. SCI makes decisions on employment, promotion and reward on the basis of merit.
SCI is committed to all aspects of equal opportunity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace and to providing all staff, students, contractors, volunteers and visitors with a safe, respectful and rewarding environment free from all forms of unlawful discrimination, harassment, vilification and victimisation.
SCI values diversity because we recognise that the differences in our people’s age, race, ethnicity, culture, gender, nationality, sexual orientation, physical ability and background bring richness to our work environment.
Application Process
Please ensure your application includes the following:
1. Statement addressing each of the selection criteria;
2. Brief cover letter outlining your suitability for the role;
3. Current curriculum vitae/resume which should include:
- full name, address, telephone number and email address;
- details of education, professional training and qualifications;
- employment history, including present position and details of relevant professional,
consulting or industry experience;
- names and contact details of referees;
- research interests and list of publications;
- research grants awarded and any other relevant information, such as offices held in
professional bodies, community services.
Enquiries:
If you have any queries regarding this position, please contact hr@sci.edu.au
Preference will be given to candidates with prior teaching experience in the area of Social Work. Due to the expected high volume of responses only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
Work Authorisation: Australia (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: Up to $108,000.00 per year
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
Education:
- Masters Degree (Required)
Work Authorisation:
- Australia (Required)
Work Location: In person
Application Deadline: 07/06/2024
Expected Start Date: 17/06/2024