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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We recruit exceptional people
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LSA Newham
A Learning Support Assistant role in Newham, East London, providing one-to-one and small-group support to pupils. The position offers full-time and part-time opportunities at £17.50 per hour (Umbrella), with an ASAP start date for someone passionate about supporting children's academic, social and emotional development.
Entry Level 3 Skills Pathways Lecturer
Part-time temporary Entry 3 Lecturer role in East London, working 32+ hours per week with SEND/SEMH learners who have low starting points and barriers to learning. Deliver English, Maths, tutorials and personal/social/study skills while supporting learner engagement and progression. Requires Level 5 teaching qualification and experience with SEND learners.
SEMH Lecturer
Part-time temporary SEMH Lecturer position in East London working 32+ hours per week with small groups of learners with SEMH needs, autism, ADHD and other neurodiverse conditions. The role involves delivering English, Maths, tutorials and personal/social/study skills to challenging or disengaged learners. Requires Level 5 teaching qualification (PGCE, Cert Ed or DET) and significant SEMH/SEND experience.
Learner Experience Manager
A forward-thinking training provider is seeking a Learner Experience Manager to coordinate apprenticeship delivery, monitor learner progress, and ensure successful outcomes. This varied role involves working with data, coaches, and stakeholders to keep learners engaged and on track, with hybrid working and excellent benefits including 33 days' annual leave.
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 Faried
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
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
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Whether you're looking to hire exceptional public service professionals or searching for your next meaningful role, we're here to help.
