At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead education improvement initiatives and manage a diverse portfolio.
- Company: Dynamic local authority focused on impactful educational leadership.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid working, and potential for contract extension.
- Other info: Immediate start available; diverse workforce commitment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education while supporting schools under financial pressure.
- Qualifications: Assistant Director-level experience with a proven track record in school improvement.
6-month contract | Start ASAP (1–2 weeks) | £600 – £700 per day | Inside IR35 (via umbrella) | Hybrid working
This is a high-impact interim opportunity for a credible system leader ready to step into a challenging and visible role. As Assistant Director for Education Improvement, you will report into senior leadership, lead a wide education portfolio and manage four senior direct reports across school improvement and Early Years. You will take ownership of improvement at pace, providing stability, grip and direction during a critical period for services, schools and families. You will be trusted to operate at scale from day one, working directly with headteachers, system leaders and partners, while balancing improvement priorities with financial realities. This role is about influence, delivery and making confident decisions where they matter most.
Your role as Assistant Director – Education Improvement:
- Strategic leadership across School Improvement, Early Years, SEND, safeguarding and alternative provision
- System-wide improvement, aligning practice to the Ofsted Education Inspection Framework
- Financial oversight, supporting schools facing budget pressures and contributing to recovery plans
- Data-led decision-making, improving outcomes for vulnerable and disadvantaged cohorts
- Senior people leadership, managing, coaching and holding to account four experienced direct reports
Your previous experience as an Assistant Director – Education Improvement:
- Assistant Director-level experience (or equivalent) within a Local Authority setting
- Proven school improvement track record, including SEND and Early Years leadership
- Strong financial acumen, with experience of school finance, managing deficits and recovery planning
- Workforce restructuring experience, including consultation, redesign and delivery at pace
- Credible inspection experience, working confidently with Ofsted and DfE frameworks
This interim assignment has been created to maintain momentum while permanent recruitment is underway. We are seeking a proven, high-calibre Assistant Director who can stabilise services, support schools under financial pressure and deliver sustainable improvement. The initial contract is six months, with the potential for extension, and flexibility is offered through hybrid working. An immediate start is essential, making this an ideal opportunity if you are available now or becoming available shortly. Our clients are committed to building diverse workforces and recruit based on experience and skills. Any reasonable adjustments will be fully supported throughout the application and hiring process.
Assistant Director Education Improvement employer: Baltimore Consulting
Baltimore Consulting is an exceptional employer that fosters a values-driven culture, prioritising quality and integrity in every aspect of its work. As a Recruitment Consultant in Bristol, you'll benefit from a hybrid work model, enjoy uncapped commission, and generous holiday allowances, all while contributing to meaningful appointments in the public sector. The company is committed to employee growth, providing ample opportunities for professional development in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Director Education Improvement
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about roles that might not even be advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the organisation and its current challenges, especially around school improvement and financial pressures. Being able to discuss how you can make an impact from day one will set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed teams and driven improvements in previous roles. Highlighting your experience with SEND and Early Years will resonate well.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Director Education Improvement
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Director – Education Improvement role. Highlight your experience in school improvement, financial oversight, and leadership. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples that demonstrate your impact in previous roles, especially in areas like SEND and Early Years. This will help us see the value you can bring to our team.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, be clear and concise. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon and get straight to the point. This will make it easier for us to understand your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Baltimore Consulting
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key areas of the role, especially around school improvement, SEND, and Early Years. Brush up on the Ofsted Education Inspection Framework and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their expectations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Be ready to talk about how you’ve coached and held direct reports accountable, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Financial Savvy is Key
Since financial oversight is a big part of this role, come prepared to discuss your experience with school finance, managing deficits, and recovery planning. Have specific examples ready that demonstrate your ability to balance improvement priorities with financial realities.
✨Be Ready for Data Discussions
Data-led decision-making is essential, so be prepared to talk about how you’ve used data to improve outcomes for vulnerable and disadvantaged cohorts. Bring examples of how you’ve analysed data to inform your strategies and decisions.
