Your Recruitment Specialists
Connecting exceptional people with organisations that serve our communities - from schools and colleges to healthcare, local government and housing.
Because public service matters.
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
Placing people who care where they’re needed most.
We're not your average recruitment agency
Here's why clients and candidates choose to work with us.
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.
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.
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.
Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what the schools, public sector organisations and professionals we support say about working with us.
Featured Testimonial
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 & Slate to anyone seeking their next career move. I did not have to chase or worry about anything.
Rabena Faried
Safeguarding Manager
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.
Our headquarters in the heart of the South West, serving education professionals across the region.
Our Manchester team understands the unique recruitment challenges facing public sector organisations throughout the UK.
All vetting & compliance is managed through our Leeds office.
Our London base near Liverpool Street, serving the capital's education and public sector employers.
Our process to find the right match
Stay informed, Stay inspired
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.
Flagship one-day conference to advance teaching, learning and assessment excellence across further education and skills.
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.
Whether you're looking to hire exceptional public service professionals or searching for your next meaningful role, we're here to help.
