At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop high-quality Post-16 education programmes across multiple campuses.
- Company: Specialist education provider focused on SEND and inclusive learning.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time only contract, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to improving educational outcomes.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people with SEND.
- Qualifications: Teaching qualification and significant experience in Post-16 or SEND education.
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 RoleThe 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
- 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
- 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
- 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, Assistant Principal, Deputy Principal, 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 (Creative) - Greater Manchester employer: Dovetail and Slate
Dovetail and Slate Limited is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for its staff. With a focus on professional development, the company offers ongoing CPD and career progression opportunities, allowing employees to shape and influence specialist Post-16 education while making a meaningful impact on the lives of young people with SEND. Located in Greater Manchester, the multi-site leadership role provides a unique chance to collaborate with diverse teams and stakeholders, ensuring high-quality educational experiences across all campuses.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Programmes (Creative) - Greater Manchester
✨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 referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for SEND! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, share your experiences and successes in improving outcomes for young people with SEND. Let them see your commitment!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation's vision and values. Tailor your responses to show how your leadership style aligns with their goals for inclusive education. We want to see that spark!
✨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 mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Programmes (Creative) - Greater Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of Programmes role. Highlight your experience in SEND and Post-16 education, and show us how your skills align with our mission to improve outcomes for young people.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see your leadership style! Share examples of how you've successfully managed teams and driven quality improvement in educational settings. This is your chance to shine as a strategic thinker and operational leader.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate well-structured applications that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences.
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 exciting 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 SEND legislation and EHCP processes. Be ready to discuss how you've implemented these in previous roles, as this will show your commitment to improving outcomes for young people with SEND.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led teams and driven quality improvement in educational settings. Highlight your experience in coaching and mentoring staff, as well as any successful initiatives you've implemented that improved student experiences.
✨Understand the Organisation's Vision
Familiarise yourself with the organisation's mission and values. Be prepared to articulate how your vision aligns with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals in delivering high-quality education across multiple campuses.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you've built relationships with families, local authorities, and external partners in the past. Be ready to discuss strategies you've used to engage stakeholders effectively, as this is crucial for the role.
