Real-World Learning Director, Workshop School

Posted by The Workshop School on November 2, 2021

At the Workshop School, a defining element of the “Upper House” (11th and 12th grades) involves students taking their work and learning beyond the school walls through internships, consultancies, job training and dual enrollment programs. The Director of Real-World Learning is charged with growing and supporting the broad network of partners this work requires, developing and implementing systems and protocols to support real-world learning experiences, and interfacing with school faculty and administration to ensure that real world learning experiences are aligned with and supported by classroom work and the school vision more broadly.

The Workshop School Director of Real-World Learning oversees all learning opportunities and experiences that happen outside of the school building, and plays a lead role in managing the school’s broad network of partnerships.

1. Designing and implementing systems and procedures to support real-world learning.
2. Identifying, recruiting and onboarding new partners to support real-world learning.
3. Supporting existing partners, including regular check-ins with workplace mentors.
4. Serving as a liaison between partners, faculty and school administrators.
5. Coordinating the Workshop School’s dual-enrollment program, including working with Upper House advisors to identify candidates, and assisting students with course selection, placement and ongoing academic and logistical support.
6. Working directly with 11th and 12th grade students transitioning into and out of real-world learning opportunities.

Qualifications for this position include:

• Experience leading the design, planning and implementation of programs
• Experience in youth development, education or other direct service work with young adults
• Experience in classroom settings and a deep understanding of the work teachers do
• Ability to work in a highly collaborative environment
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Strong interpersonal and networking skills
• Experience as a mentor, mentee or both

About the Workshop School

At Workshop School, we envision graduates who value learning and growth, build community, and know how to shape their lives and our world. Our mission is to work with students to develop deep connections with peers and adults, the skills they need to succeed in college or the workplace, and a strong sense of agency. The school is organized around real-world learning experiences like interdisciplinary projects, internships, and dual enrollment programs. Through these experiences, students develop the skills that are most critical to success beyond high school, such as collaboration, problem solving, project management, goal-setting, networking, and seeking and using feedback.

At the Workshop, we believe that a strong, supportive community is integral to all academic success and student wellbeing. Project work, which makes up half the school day, is done in advisories of 20-24 students. Each morning begins with circle, and the work we do together is rooted in shared norms and values. Restorative practices are a central part of building and sustaining a healthy and supportive school culture.

Located in Philadelphia, the Workshop is part of the School District’s Innovation Network. While this is a school-based, student-facing position, the Real World Learning Director will be hired by the Workshop School’s non-profit partner, Project Based Learning, Inc. and will report to the School’s Principal.

To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to staffing@workshopschool.org. Your resume should clearly show experience related to this role, and your cover letter should explain your interest and how your past experience, skills and mindset prepare you for the requirements of this position.