At a Glance
- Tasks: Support high-quality education and student support for young people with SEND.
- Company: Specialist Post-16 education provider in Bolton with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time only contract, and excellent leadership development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with ongoing CPD and progression pathways.
- Why this job: Make a genuine difference in the lives of vulnerable young people while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Teaching qualification and experience with SEND learners required.
A specialist Post-16 education provider is seeking a dedicated and ambitious Assistant Head of Programmes to support the delivery of high-quality education and student support across its specialist college provision. This is an excellent opportunity for an aspiring or established middle leader looking to further develop their leadership career within SEND, Further Education, and specialist Post-16 provision.
The successful candidate will support curriculum delivery, safeguarding, student outcomes, quality assurance, and team development while helping create an outstanding learning experience for young people with SEND and EHCPs.
The Role
The Assistant Head of Programmes will work closely with the Head of Programmes to support the operational management and day-to-day delivery of specialist study programmes. The role focuses on student progress, SEND support, safeguarding, curriculum implementation, team coordination, and quality assurance, ensuring learners receive the highest standards of support and education. This is a highly rewarding opportunity for an education professional passionate about improving outcomes for vulnerable young people.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the delivery and coordination of specialist Post-16 study programmes
- Monitor student attendance, engagement, progress, and destinations
- Assist with curriculum planning, implementation, and quality assurance activities
- Support SEND provision, EHCP implementation, ILPs, and Annual Reviews
- Act as Deputy Safeguarding Lead and support student wellbeing initiatives
- Lead on day-to-day operational matters and support educational teams
- Contribute to staff development, coaching, and performance support
- Promote inclusive, trauma-informed, and neuro-affirming practice
- Support employer engagement, Supported Internships, and work placement opportunities
- Ensure accurate use of MIS systems and compliance processes
- Build positive relationships with students, families, Local Authorities, and external professionals
The Ideal Candidate
- Teaching qualification (PGCE, Cert Ed or equivalent)
- Experience working with learners with SEND and EHCPs
- Background within Further Education, Post-16, specialist education, or alternative provision
- Experience leading or supporting educational teams
- Strong understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and student wellbeing
- Knowledge of SEND Code of Practice and Preparation for Adulthood pathways
- Excellent organisational, communication, and relationship-building skills
- Passion for supporting young people to achieve positive outcomes
Desirable Experience
- Experience within specialist SEND provision
- Experience supporting Ofsted inspections
- SEND qualification
- Management qualification or leadership training
- Experience within Supported Internship programmes
- Experience within creative, cultural, or alternative education settings
What's on Offer
- Permanent term-time opportunity
- Excellent leadership development opportunities
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
- Ongoing CPD and progression pathways
- Opportunity to work within a growing specialist education organisation
- Chance to make a genuine difference to the lives of young people with SEND
Assistant Head of Programmes - Bolton employer: Dovetail and Slate
Dovetail and Slate Limited is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment for professionals in specialist Post-16 education. With a strong focus on leadership development, ongoing CPD, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people with SEND, this role offers a rewarding career path in Bolton's vibrant educational landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Head of Programmes - Bolton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved with SEND. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its values. Show us you’re passionate about improving outcomes for young people with SEND. Tailor your responses to highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when discussing your experience and vision for supporting students with SEND.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Head of Programmes - Bolton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with SEND and Post-16 education. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant skills!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting young people with SEND shine through in your application. We’re looking for candidates who are genuinely passionate about making a difference, so share your motivations and experiences that fuel this passion.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dovetail and Slate
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and how it applies to Post-16 education. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used to support learners with SEND and EHCPs, as this will show your passion and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led or supported educational teams in the past. Think about times when you've contributed to staff development or quality assurance activities, as these experiences will highlight your readiness for a middle leadership role.
✨Engage with Safeguarding
Since safeguarding is a key responsibility, be prepared to discuss your understanding of safeguarding practices and your experience acting as a Deputy Safeguarding Lead. Share any initiatives you've implemented to promote student wellbeing and safety.
✨Build Relationships
Think about how you've built positive relationships with students, families, and external professionals. Be ready to share specific examples that demonstrate your communication skills and ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders.
