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- Tasks: Lead and inspire a team to transform the lives of young people in Alternative Provision.
- Company: Dynamic Pupil Referral Unit in Ipswich, dedicated to supporting vulnerable learners.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive leadership environment.
- Other info: Join a passionate team committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare.
- Why this job: Make a profound impact on young people's lives and shape their futures.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in education, with a focus on SEMH and behaviour support.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are seeking an inspirational, resilient and values-driven Head of Provision to lead our Alternative Provision / Pupil Referral Unit in Ipswich, Suffolk from September 2026. This is a pivotal leadership role for an experienced education professional who is passionate about transforming the lives of young people who face barriers to mainstream education. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping a safe, nurturing, and aspirational learning environment where all pupils are supported to re-engage, achieve, and thrive.
As Head of Provision, you will:
- Provide strategic and operational leadership to the Alternative Provision / PRU
- Lead and inspire a multidisciplinary staff team to deliver high-quality teaching, learning and pastoral support
- Ensure compliance with safeguarding, statutory guidance, and local authority requirements
- Oversee curriculum design tailored to the academic, social and emotional needs of vulnerable learners
- Build strong partnerships with families, local authorities, external agencies and mainstream schools
- Drive continuous improvement, promoting inclusion, high expectations and positive behaviour
- Monitor outcomes, attendance, and behaviour to ensure sustained pupil progress
We are looking for someone who:
- Has proven leadership experience within Alternative Provision, PRU, SEN, or a related setting
- Possesses a strong understanding of SEMH, trauma-informed practice and behaviour support
- Is an outstanding practitioner with the ability to motivate, mentor and develop staff
- Demonstrates excellent communication, organisation and problem-solving skills
- Is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
- Holds QTS/QTLS (or equivalent) - desirable
- Has experience working with local authorities and external professionals
What We Offer:
- An opportunity to make a profound impact on young people's lives
- A supportive leadership environment with scope to shape and develop the provision
- Competitive salary (commensurate with experience)
- Professional development and leadership training opportunities
- A committed and passionate staff team
This role is subject to enhanced DBS clearance and all relevant safeguarding checks. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff to share this commitment.
To apply, please submit your CV and a supporting statement outlining your suitability for the role. Early applications are encouraged as shortlisting may take place on a rolling basis.
Locations
Head of Provision in Ipswich, Suffolk employer: Prospero Teaching
Contact Detail:
Prospero Teaching Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Provision in Ipswich, Suffolk
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have experience in Alternative Provision or PRUs. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and even job leads.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in SEMH and trauma-informed practices. We want you to showcase your knowledge and passion for transforming young lives during those crucial conversations.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a strong online presence! Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your leadership experience and commitment to safeguarding. It’s a great way for potential employers to find you.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Provision in Ipswich, Suffolk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Head of Provision role. Highlight your leadership experience in Alternative Provision or similar settings, and don’t forget to mention any relevant qualifications like QTS/QTLS.
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about transforming the lives of young people and how your values align with our mission at StudySmarter. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the job description.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a leader, excellent communication is key. In your application, demonstrate your ability to convey ideas clearly and effectively. This could be through the way you structure your CV or the tone of your supporting statement—make it engaging and professional!
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We encourage early applications as we may start shortlisting on a rolling basis. Get your materials in through our website so you don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Prospero Teaching
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of Alternative Provision and Pupil Referral Units. Brush up on current trends, challenges, and best practices in the field. This will not only show your passion but also your commitment to transforming the lives of young people.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership experience and how you've inspired teams in the past. Think of specific examples where you’ve motivated staff or improved outcomes for students. This is your chance to demonstrate that you can lead a multidisciplinary team effectively.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Highlight your experience working with families, local authorities, and external agencies. Be ready to share examples of how you’ve built strong partnerships and driven inclusion. This role requires a collaborative approach, so showing you can foster these relationships is key.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about handling challenging situations, especially related to safeguarding and behaviour support. Prepare some scenarios from your past experiences where you successfully navigated these issues, showcasing your problem-solving skills and trauma-informed practice.