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- Tasks: Lead the development of inspection policy for post-16 education and skills.
- Company: Ofsted, dedicated to improving education standards for young people.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, strategic leadership role, and impactful work.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education and training for young learners.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and experience in education policy.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence education standards across the UK.
The predicted salary is between 108574 - 108574 £ per year.
Deputy Director, Post-16 Education, Training and Skills
Salary:
£108,574
Location:
10 South Colonnade, London; Piccadilly Gate, Manchester; 2 Rivergate, Bristol; 23 Stephenson Street, Birmingham; Loxley House, Nottingham
Job summary
Ofsted\’s role is to raise standards and improve the lives of children, young people, and learners through intelligent, responsible, and focused inspection and regulation.
Our Deputy Director, Post-16 Education, Training and Skills will lead the continuous improvement and development of Ofsted\’s inspection policy and methodology for 16-19 further education & skills provision, adult learning, apprenticeship, and provision for learners in receipt of high needs funding. In addition, the post holder will lead the development of inspection policy and methodology for the Teacher Development remits (ITE and ECF/NPQ), for the inspection of education, skills and work provision in prisons and the inspection of welfare and duty of care in Ministry of Defence training establishments. They will provide visible and strategic leadership and management to the Post-16 Education, Training and Skills team ensuring that Ofsted\’s work in this area is well focused and driving system-wide improvement.
Reporting directly to the National Director, Education, the Deputy Director, Post-16 Education, Training and Skills will be Ofsted\’s chief adviser on inspection policy and practice, advising the National Director, His Majesty\’s Chief Inspector (HMCI) and Chief Operating Officer on all relevant matters relating to this remit.
Representing the National Director, senior management team and Ofsted, the role holder will build effective relationships and influence internal and external stakeholders, and opinion formers.
In fulfilling this role, the Deputy Director will ensure that Ofsted\’s work is driving real improvements in the system, through a process of continuous improvement and framework and related policy development, informed by inspection evidence, stakeholder engagement and best practice.
Application deadline: 11:55pm on Tuesday 14 October 2025
Deputy Director, Post-16 Education Training and Skills employer: Ofsted
Contact Detail:
Ofsted Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director, Post-16 Education Training and Skills
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education and training sector, especially those connected to Ofsted. Attend events, webinars, or even local meet-ups to make connections that could lead to insider info about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into Ofsted's current policies and methodologies. Show us you know your stuff by discussing recent changes or challenges in post-16 education during your chat with the interviewers.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! We want to hear about times you've driven improvement or led teams effectively. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and keep it engaging.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining Ofsted and making a difference in post-16 education.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director, Post-16 Education Training and Skills
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Deputy Director. We want to see how you can lead and improve inspection policies, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant achievements!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and get straight to the point. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and vision for the role.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a Deputy Director, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Share examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and drive change!
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 the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ofsted
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in Ofsted’s inspection policies and methodologies, especially those related to post-16 education. Brush up on recent reports and developments in the field so you can speak confidently about how you would contribute to continuous improvement.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As a Deputy Director, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams or projects, particularly in education or training settings. Highlight how you’ve influenced change and driven improvements.
✨Build Relationships
This role involves working with various stakeholders. Think of ways you’ve built effective relationships in previous roles. Be ready to discuss how you would engage with internal and external stakeholders to drive Ofsted’s mission forward.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the organisation. Inquire about Ofsted's future initiatives in post-16 education or how they measure the success of their inspection methodologies. This shows you’re not just interested in the position but also in contributing to the organisation’s goals.