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- Tasks: Lead inspections and support quality assurance in early years education.
- Company: Join ISI, a not-for-profit ensuring high standards in independent education across England.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative work culture with opportunities for professional development and training.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's education while working with a dedicated team of professionals.
- Qualifications: Five years of senior leadership experience in early years or schools; teaching qualification required.
- Other info: Applications close on 29th August; Enhanced DBS Check is mandatory.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the Independent Schools Inspectorate
The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) is a government-appointed, not-for-profit organisation responsible for inspecting over 1,300 independent schools in England, private further education colleges, and British Schools Overseas. Our mission is to uphold rigorous statutory standards while fostering a culture of collaboration, transparency, and continuous improvement in education.
Our office is based in Barbican and the organisation has approximately 35 employees and contracts a pool of over 1000 carefully selected and trained inspectors to provide its services across the UK.
We are now inviting applications for a Senior Inspector (Early Years Education) to lead inspections and contribute to the ongoing development of ISI\’s inspection framework. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in maintaining and enhancing the quality of education across a diverse range of institutions.
About the Role
Senior Inspectors will play a significant role in the delivery of ISI\’s inspection framework. The role holders will support quality assurance of the end-to-end inspection process and contribute to the design and delivery of top-quality, up-to-date knowledge and skills focused training for contracted inspectors.
The focus of this role will play a significant role in the delivery of ISI\’s inspection framework for inspections of early years and for independent schools.
The role reports into the Senior Director for National Inspections and key responsibilities include:
Successfully leading inspections including those that may be sensitive or complex
Supporting inspectors prior to, during and post inspection, acting as a source of advice and guidance
Reviewing inspection documentation to ensure quality, consistency and accuracy
Working with ISI\’s leadership and wider team to implement and oversee effective and robust quality assurance processes for the end-to-end inspection process
Ensuring quality assurance processes are implemented consistently to meet the strategic aim of inspection excellence
Supporting and delivering the induction training for new inspectors
Developing and delivering update training on developments in inspection practice and statutory requirements across ISI\’s remits
Role Criteria
A strong knowledge, understanding and commitment to prioritising the safeguarding and effective education of children and young people
A minimum of five years\’ successful experience at senior leadership level in early years settings or schools
Understanding and experience of delivering effective quality assurance
Experience of quality assurance/evaluation, in early years and/or schools
Proven track record in design and delivery of workforce training
Degree level qualification or equivalent
Must hold qualified teacher status or a recognised teaching qualification
How to Apply
If you would like to apply for this position, please send your CV and cover letter to . We ask that your cover letter specifically outlines your experience and competence regarding the key responsibilities and criteria for this position.
The deadline for applications is Friday 29th August by 5pm.
Please note that as per ISI\’s policy, the applicants will need to successfully complete an Enhanced DBS Check (with child barred list).
Senior Inspector (Early Years) employer: Independent Schools Inspectorate
Contact Detail:
Independent Schools Inspectorate Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Inspector (Early Years)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Independent Schools Inspectorate's inspection framework. Understanding their specific criteria and processes will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former inspectors to gain insights into the role and expectations. This can provide you with valuable information that may not be publicly available and could give you an edge in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in quality assurance and training delivery in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led inspections or developed training programmes in early years settings.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and changes in early years education and safeguarding practices. Being knowledgeable about recent developments will show your commitment to continuous improvement and align with ISI's mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Inspector (Early Years)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and criteria for the Senior Inspector position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should specifically address your experience and competence regarding the key responsibilities and criteria for the role. Use clear examples from your past roles to demonstrate your qualifications and commitment to safeguarding and effective education.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise your senior leadership experience in early years settings or schools. Include details about your understanding of quality assurance processes and any relevant training you have designed or delivered.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for the role of Senior Inspector.
How to prepare for a job interview at Independent Schools Inspectorate
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure you have a deep understanding of the Senior Inspector role and its responsibilities. Familiarise yourself with ISI's inspection framework and be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission of maintaining educational standards.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Highlight your senior leadership experience in early years settings or schools. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've successfully led inspections or quality assurance processes, especially in sensitive or complex situations.
✨Demonstrate Commitment to Safeguarding
Given the importance of safeguarding in this role, be prepared to discuss your knowledge and commitment to prioritising the safety and effective education of children and young people. Share any relevant experiences that showcase your dedication to this critical aspect.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to support inspectors during the inspection process. Think about past challenges you've faced and how you navigated them, as this will demonstrate your capability to handle similar situations at ISI.
