Curriculum Development & Innovation Lead (Post-16 Reform) (Fixed Term) in Fareham

This is a rare and exciting opportunity to lead curriculum reform across a college group. South Hampshire College Group are embracing the introduction of V Levels and combining this with the launch of an A Level offer at our Fareham College site from September 2027. This will only be the start, as further V Levels and new reformed Level 2 qualifications will be introduced and rolled out across the college group from 2028. We need an experienced curriculum development expert to plan, deliver and implement this vision.

You will be familiar with both vocational and academic qualifications in a post 16 environment and knowledgeable of the fast‑paced timeline of post 16 policy implementation. The role will require someone with excellent project management skills, being able to engage stakeholders internally working with teaching and support staff as well as working externally with schools, other colleges and awarding organisations. You will be able to work with data, understanding application trends, as well as recognising the importance of retention and achievement within a college environment.

This is a significant undertaking, and we need someone who is able to work seamlessly across multiple work streams. You will be comfortable working with and presenting in front of senior leadership teams and boards and engaging with current and potential students. With no direct line management responsibility, this fixed‑term role (12 months with potential for extension beyond) will allow you to fully focus on the brief. It will be the first time SHCG offer a mixed study programme, therefore as part of the design and implementation, a careful consideration of pastoral and enrichment opportunities will be required to ensure the student experience is maximised.

To arrange an informal discussion about this vacancy with Pete Joddrell, Deputy CEO, please contact Recruitment on 02380 809173.

We Offer Great Benefits Including:

• 35 days annual leave per year, plus bank holidays
• Generous employer pension contribution
• Regular training and development
• Access to a health care plan
• Learning and development opportunities

Role and Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and implementation of innovative curriculum models aligned to national post‑16 reforms, including V Levels, reformed Level 2 qualifications, and a targeted A Level offer at Fareham College.
• Design clear academic and technical progression pathways that meet learner needs, local labour market demands, and strategic Group priorities.
• Oversee the planning, rollout, and evaluation of new curriculum provision, ensuring successful implementation, strong learner outcomes, and financial sustainability.
• Establish and lead cross‑functional working groups to support curriculum design, delivery, quality, student experience, and recruitment objectives.
• Collaborate with employers, schools, local authorities, and other stakeholders to ensure curriculum relevance and responsiveness to workforce needs.
• Work closely with SLT, ELT, and governors to provide strategic recommendations, curriculum planning advice, and option appraisals that support organisational growth and campus specialisms.
• Ensure all new programmes are high‑quality, compliant with regulatory and awarding body requirements, and fully aligned with Ofsted expectations.
• Support workforce development, enabling staff to deliver new qualifications effectively and confidently.
• Partner with Marketing and Admissions teams to develop compelling curriculum messaging and recruitment strategies that clearly communicate learner pathways and progression opportunities.
• Lead curriculum reform projects using structured project management methodologies, managing risks, timelines, milestones, and reporting to senior leaders.

Partnerships and Reputation:

Ensure that the college develops and maintains a constructive relationship with appropriate external stakeholders relevant to the postholder’s areas of responsibility.

Health and Safety:

Ensure that the Health and Safety policy and procedures operated by the college are adhered to and that all statutory requirements are met by all staff with postholder’s areas of responsibility.

Equal Opportunity:

Adopt and promote a positive attitude toward equality of opportunity for all within the college and ensure that the related policies and procedures are adhered to and that all statutory requirements are met by all staff with postholder’s areas of responsibility.

Professional Standards:

Develop, maintain and exhibit the quality standards appropriate to the post and promote a culture of integrity and transparency throughout all college activities. Undertake appropriate staff development activities that support personal development and the changing needs of the college and its environment. Be aware of, and responsive to, the changing nature of the college and adopt a flexible and proactive approach to work.

About Us:

The South Hampshire College Group (SHCG) is a dynamic, purpose‑driven Further Education organisation with a commitment to Creating Better Futures for learners, employers and communities within South Hampshire and beyond. We pride ourselves on living our values - Collaborative, Inclusive and Aspirational. We also understand the difference exceptional employees can make to us delivering outstanding results and we are always seeking to attract talent who can add value and who will be proud to be part of our growing organisation.

South Hampshire College Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Our recruitment practices follow safer recruitment guidance, including enhanced DBS checks, online checks, and thorough pre‑employment vetting. We value equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging, and welcome applications from all backgrounds. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.