ASSOCIATE TUTOR - SKILLS FOR SUCCESS - Job Opportunity at Birkbeck, University of London

London, United Kingdom
Part-time
Mid-level
Posted: June 19, 2025
On-site
GBP 59.91 per hour

Benefits

Competitive hourly rate with built-in multiplier covering comprehensive teaching preparation and administrative duties, providing predictable compensation for all aspects of the role
London Allowance inclusion recognizing the premium cost of living in the capital and enhancing overall compensation package
Holiday pay integration ensuring continuous income protection during academic breaks
Professional development opportunity within a prestigious Russell Group university environment
Access to Birkbeck's academic resources and professional networks in central London's academic hub
Flexible evening teaching schedule accommodating other professional commitments
Opportunity to contribute to transformational educational experiences for adult learners

Key Responsibilities

Deliver high-impact academic and research skills instruction for the Personal and Academic Skills for Success (PASS) module, directly shaping students' foundational capabilities for academic and professional success
Facilitate comprehensive skill development sessions covering literature research, argument development, essay writing, and numeracy skills that form the cornerstone of business education
Design and implement engaging teaching methodologies for evening students, requiring adaptive pedagogical approaches for working adult learners
Conduct assessment and provide constructive feedback that drives student progression and academic achievement
Collaborate with Birkbeck Business School faculty to maintain module quality and alignment with institutional standards
Support student engagement initiatives that contribute to retention and academic success in higher education
Manage administrative responsibilities including attendance tracking, progress monitoring, and academic record maintenance

Requirements

Education

At least a Master degree in Business and Management related subjects or an equivalent relevant qualification

Experience

Advanced experience in teaching and supporting students on academic and research skills

Required Skills

Knowledge of academic and research skills (e.g., literature research, argument development, essay writing, basic numeracy skills) Experience of teaching and supporting students in relevant courses A track record of student engagement and want to contribute to an impactful and transformational educational experience The ability able to work both as part of a team and independently as appropriate, and has the ability to support teaching
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

Higher education institutions are increasingly focusing on foundational academic skills development as student populations become more diverse and include significant numbers of mature learners returning to education. This trend reflects the recognition that academic success requires explicit instruction in research and writing skills that were previously assumed to be acquired elsewhere. The adult education sector is experiencing growth as professionals seek to upskill and change careers, particularly in business and management fields. This creates sustained demand for skilled tutors who can adapt their teaching methods to working adults with varied educational backgrounds. Universities are emphasizing student retention and success metrics, leading to increased investment in support modules like academic skills courses. This trend creates stable opportunities for specialized tutors who can demonstrate impact on student outcomes.

Salary Evaluation

The £59.91 hourly rate is competitive for part-time academic tutoring in London, particularly given the 2.5x multiplier that accounts for preparation and administrative duties. This effectively values the role at approximately £150 per contact hour when including all associated work, which aligns with mid-tier university rates for specialized instruction.

Role Significance

Typically operates as part of a small teaching team of 3-5 tutors supporting the PASS module, with coordination from senior academic staff and potential collaboration with student support services.
This is a mid-level academic support role that requires advanced teaching experience and subject matter expertise, positioned between entry-level tutoring and senior lecturer positions. The role carries significant responsibility for student success outcomes while operating within established curriculum frameworks.

Key Projects

Development and delivery of comprehensive academic skills workshops covering research methodology, critical thinking, and academic writing Implementation of assessment strategies that provide meaningful feedback on student progress in foundational academic competencies Creation of engaging learning materials adapted for evening delivery to working adult students Participation in module evaluation and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance student outcomes

Success Factors

Ability to adapt teaching methods for adult learners who may have been away from formal education for extended periods, requiring patience, flexibility, and understanding of diverse learning needs Strong communication skills to explain complex academic concepts in accessible ways, breaking down research and writing processes into manageable components Commitment to student engagement and success, demonstrated through responsive teaching practices and willingness to provide additional support when needed Professional reliability and time management skills essential for evening teaching schedules and administrative responsibilities Collaborative approach to working within academic teams while maintaining independence in classroom delivery

Market Demand

Moderate to high demand exists for qualified academic skills tutors, particularly those with business education backgrounds who can work flexible evening schedules to accommodate working adult learners.

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Advanced teaching and facilitation skills are essential as the role requires adapting complex academic concepts for adult learners who may lack confidence in their academic abilities. The ability to create supportive learning environments while maintaining academic rigor is crucial for student success and retention. Deep understanding of academic research and writing processes is fundamental, as tutors must not only possess these skills but be able to break them down into teachable components. This includes knowledge of literature searching, critical analysis, argument construction, and academic writing conventions. Student engagement capabilities are vital given the adult learner population who may struggle with motivation, time management, and competing priorities. Successful tutors must be able to create relevant, engaging content that connects to students' professional and personal goals.

Beneficial Skills

Experience with diverse learning styles and adult education principles would enhance effectiveness, as mature students often require different approaches than traditional undergraduate populations Business and management sector knowledge would add value by enabling tutors to provide industry-relevant examples and applications of academic skills Assessment and feedback expertise would support student development and module quality, particularly important in skills development courses where formative feedback is crucial

Unique Aspects

Evening-only teaching schedule specifically designed for working adults, requiring specialized pedagogical approaches and scheduling flexibility that differs from traditional university roles
Focus on foundational academic skills development for students who may be returning to education after significant gaps, requiring particular sensitivity to diverse learning needs and potential academic anxiety
Integration of practical business applications with academic skill development, creating opportunities to connect research and writing skills directly to professional contexts
Fixed-term contract structure aligned with academic year, providing clear project boundaries while potentially leading to ongoing opportunities
Multiplier-based compensation model that recognizes the full scope of teaching responsibilities including preparation, delivery, and assessment

Career Growth

Career progression typically occurs within 2-4 years with demonstrated teaching excellence and additional qualifications, potentially faster with strong student outcome metrics and expanded teaching responsibilities.

Potential Next Roles

Senior Tutor or Teaching Fellow positions within university business schools Academic Skills Coordinator roles overseeing multiple support modules Lecturer positions in business and management programs Educational consultant roles specializing in academic skills development Student success manager positions in higher education

Company Overview

Birkbeck, University of London

Birkbeck, University of London is a prestigious constituent college of the University of London, uniquely specialized in evening education for working adults. Established in 1823, it holds a distinctive position in UK higher education as the only university in London to offer full-time degrees exclusively in the evening, making it particularly relevant for career changers and professional development.

Birkbeck maintains strong academic credibility as part of the University of London federation while serving a unique market niche. Its business school is well-regarded for practical, career-focused programs that attract motivated adult learners seeking to advance their careers.
Located in Bloomsbury, Birkbeck occupies a prime position in London's academic quarter, providing access to extensive library resources, professional networks, and cultural institutions. This central location is crucial for attracting working professionals from across Greater London.
The institution fosters a collaborative, student-centered culture that values flexibility, inclusivity, and academic excellence. The focus on adult learners creates a professional atmosphere with emphasis on practical application and career relevance.
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