At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead high-quality education and support for young people with SEND across multiple campuses.
- Company: Specialist Post-16 education provider dedicated to inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time only contract, ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Supportive leadership team with opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on the lives of young people with SEND.
- Qualifications: Teaching qualification and significant experience in Post-16 or SEND education.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 37000 £ per year.
A specialist Post-16 education provider is seeking an experienced and passionate Head of Programmes to lead the delivery of high-quality education and support across multiple specialist college campuses. This is an exciting opportunity for an established education leader who is committed to improving outcomes for young people with SEND and EHCPs while driving excellence in curriculum delivery, safeguarding, quality assurance, and student experience.
The successful candidate will provide both strategic and operational leadership, ensuring programmes are delivered consistently, compliantly, and in line with the organisation's vision for inclusive education.
The Role
The Head of Programmes will oversee the leadership and development of specialist Post-16 study programmes across multiple campuses, ensuring high standards of teaching, learning, safeguarding, SEND provision, and student progression. Working closely with senior leaders, curriculum teams, families, Local Authorities, and external partners, the postholder will drive quality improvement, staff development, and positive student outcomes across all areas of provision. This role combines curriculum leadership, SEND management, safeguarding responsibility, operational oversight, and multi-site leadership within a growing specialist education organisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the strategic and operational delivery of Post-16 study programmes across multiple campuses
- Ensure high-quality teaching, learning, and student outcomes across all provisions
- Lead SEND provision, EHCP implementation, Annual Reviews, and student progression planning
- Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and Deputy DSL across the wider organisation
- Monitor curriculum quality, attendance, destinations, engagement, and achievement
- Drive continuous improvement through effective use of data, quality assurance, and self-assessment
- Lead and develop multidisciplinary teams through coaching, mentoring, and performance management
- Maintain Ofsted readiness and ensure compliance with DfE funding requirements and SEND legislation
- Develop relationships with employers, cultural partners, Local Authorities, and external stakeholders
- Oversee Supported Internship provision and employer engagement opportunities
- Ensure exceptional student experiences across all campuses
The Ideal Candidate
- Teaching qualification (PGCE, Cert Ed or equivalent)
- Significant experience within Post-16, SEND, Further Education, or specialist provision
- Proven leadership experience managing educational teams
- Strong knowledge of EHCP processes, SEND legislation, and Preparation for Adulthood pathways
- Experience leading safeguarding and student wellbeing initiatives
- Understanding of Ofsted requirements and quality improvement frameworks
- Experience using data to drive student outcomes and programme performance
- Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
Desirable Experience
- DSL experience
- Management qualification or leadership training
- Experience supporting Ofsted inspections
- Experience within Supported Internship programmes
- Experience within creative, cultural, or alternative education settings
- SEND qualification
What's on Offer
- Permanent term-time opportunity
- Competitive leadership salary package
- Multi-site leadership responsibility
- Ongoing CPD and career progression opportunities
- Supportive and values-driven leadership team
- Opportunity to shape and influence specialist Post-16 provision
- Chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people with SEND
This role would suit an experienced Head of Curriculum, Curriculum Manager, SEND Manager, Head of Learning Support, Inclusion Manager, Programme Manager, or senior educational leader looking to progress within specialist Post-16 education.
Head of Programmes - Bradford/Halifax employer: Dovetail and Slate
Dovetail and Slate is an exceptional employer that prioritises innovation and flexibility, making it an ideal workplace for those passionate about education. Located in the picturesque Buckinghamshire, we offer a supportive work culture that fosters professional development and encourages lecturers to design creative teaching strategies. With a commitment to student success and a focus on overcoming learning barriers, our team enjoys meaningful engagement and growth opportunities in a collaborative environment.
