Your Recruitment Specialists
Careers That Shape Communities
Connecting exceptional people with organisations that serve our communities - from schools and colleges to healthcare, local government and housing.
Because public service matters.
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The numbers
What a year looks like here
We recruit exceptional people
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The Sixth Form Colleges Trust
Voluntary Trustee Positions
Help Shape the Future of Exceptional Post-16 Education
- Contract
- Voluntary
- Location
- Cambridge / Colchester / Stansted
Learning Support Practitioner
Dovetail is seeking compassionate Learning Support Practitioners for a 6-week temporary assignment (with strong extension potential) at a Further Education provider in York. The role involves providing 1:1 and small group support to students with additional learning needs, including personal care and mobility assistance. Part-time and full-time options available, term-time only.
Motor Vehicle Assessor
Experienced Motor Vehicle Assessor needed in Yorkshire to assess apprentices in workplace settings, conducting observations and progress reviews. This permanent role offers £33,000-£40,000, 40-50 days annual leave, and excellent pension contributions while supporting the development of skilled automotive technicians.
Fabrication & Welding Lecturer
Join our team as a Fabrication & Welding Lecturer in Barrow-in-Furness, delivering practical and theoretical training to students on Level 1-3 EAL qualifications and Engineering Apprenticeships. Industry professionals welcome - fully funded teacher training provided along with excellent benefits including 28.68% pension contribution and up to 55 days annual leave.
Electrical Maintenance Engineering Lecturer
A permanent, full-time Lecturer position in Electrical Maintenance Engineering in Middlesbrough, delivering Level 3 BTECs and T Levels. The role requires a Level 3 qualification in Electrical Engineering, with support provided to achieve teaching qualifications. Excellent benefits include 45 days annual leave, Teachers' Pension Scheme, and comprehensive CPD opportunities.
SEND English Teacher
Specialist education organisation in Manchester seeks an experienced English Teacher to support young people with SEND and SEMH needs. The role involves delivering engaging English lessons, adapting teaching for individual learners, and supporting students to achieve GCSE and Functional Skills qualifications. Salary £42,000-£47,000 with ASAP start.
Your trusted recruitment partner
Placing People Who Make a Difference
We're specialists who understand what it means to serve the public, whether that's in a classroom, on a hospital ward, in a council office or supporting vulnerable residents. That insight shapes how we work with you.
We promise, we deliver. It's that simple.
For organisations, we find people who don't just meet a job specification they share your values, understand your challenges and bring both skill and heart to their role. For professionals, we connect you with opportunities where your expertise genuinely matters and your impact is felt every day.
That's why our clients trust us, why candidates choose us, and why both recommend us.
We recruit exceptional people
Sectors We Serve
Placing people who care where they’re needed most.
We're not your average recruitment agency
What Sets Us Apart
Here's why clients and candidates choose to work with us.
Beyond the CV
Anyone can match keywords on a job description. We dig deeper. What drives your organisation's culture? What does success actually look like in this role? What challenges keep you awake at night? For candidates, we ask about weekend hobbies, teaching philosophies and career dreams, not just qualifications. Because the best placements happen when values align, not just skills.
Sector Experts, Modern Methods
Our team has lived and breathed public service, many have worked in the very sectors we recruit for. That firsthand experience means we understand what these roles truly demand. These aren't just jobs, they're vocations. We combine insider knowledge with fresh recruitment approaches across education, healthcare, local government and housing. We speak your language, recognise cultural fit and know what makes someone thrive in public service, not just survive it.
Rigorous, Human-Centred Vetting
Every candidate undergoes thorough vetting: enhanced DBS checks, professional references, qualification verification, and safeguarding compliance. Our dedicated vetting team ensures you receive quality candidates every time. But rigorous doesn't mean robotic. We support candidates through the process with empathy and clarity. Whether it's lending a laptop for a Zoom interview or refreshing a tired CV, we're here to help.
What Our Clients and Candidates Say
“10/10 I had an excellent experience with Dovetail and Slate, who quickly understood what I was looking for and matched me with the perfect role. I really appreciated the regular updates and clear communication throughout. I felt supported at every step, which made the whole process smooth and stress-free. I would highly recommend Dovetail and Slate to anyone seeking their next career move. I did not have to chase or worry about anything.”
Rabena F.
Safeguarding Manager
Leadership matters most of all
Executive Search
Senior appointments deserve more than a database search. We lead discreet, research-driven searches for board and executive roles across education, healthcare, government, housing and charity, permanent and interim.
We take the time to understand your organisation, your board and the challenge ahead, then introduce leaders who share your values and can deliver.
We promise, we deliver. It's that simple.
Our UK Offices
Local Experts, Personal Service. With offices across the UK, our consultants know the local public sector landscape inside out. You won't get passed between departments or speak to someone different every time. Your dedicated consultant builds a genuine partnership with you.
Bristol Office
Our headquarters in the heart of the South West, serving education professionals across the region.
Manchester Office
Our Manchester team understands the unique recruitment challenges facing public sector organisations throughout the UK.
Leeds Office
All vetting & compliance is managed through our Leeds office.
London Office
Our London base near Liverpool Street, serving the capital's education and public sector employers.
Our process to find the right match
How We Work With You
Awards & Accreditations
Committed to excellence and recognised for the standards we work hard to meet.
Stay informed, Stay inspired
News, Views and Voices in Education
Dovetail & Slate named finalist in the Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards 2026
Public Sector Recruitment Specialists Dovetail & Slate have been shortlisted for The Lloyds Outstanding Mid-Sized Business of the Year Award, and founder Guy Walker shortlisted for The Cazenove Capital Entrepreneur of the Year Award, at the UK's flagship business awards.
Leading Learning That Lasts
Flagship one-day conference to advance teaching, learning and assessment excellence across further education and skills.
Recruitment Event to Help Industry Professionals Transition into Education Careers
Experienced professionals from industry are invited to discover how their skills can be transformed into a rewarding career in Weston College at a dedicated recruitment event.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Whether you're looking to hire exceptional public service professionals or searching for your next meaningful role, we're here to help.
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