At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop a new Alternative Provision for children and young people in Barnsley.
- Company: Reeson Education, a values-driven organisation focused on inclusive education.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £40,000, 30 days leave, gym membership, and flexible working.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking team committed to inclusion and professional development.
- Why this job: Shape impactful educational pathways and create meaningful change for vulnerable learners.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in SEND or Alternative Provision settings and strong operational skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 46000 £ per year.
Are you an ambitious and values-driven leader with a passion for inclusive education and alternative provision? Reeson Education are proud to be supporting a brand new Alternative Provision setting in the recruitment of an exceptional Head of Alternative Provision to lead, develop, and grow a high-quality provision for children and young people across Barnsley. This is not a standard leadership role. This is a unique opportunity to shape provision from the ground up, combining strategic leadership with hands-on operational delivery. You will oversee existing provision while driving the development of new pathways for learners with SEND, SEMH needs, and Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). If you are passionate about creating meaningful change and building an inclusive environment where young people can thrive, this could be the perfect next step in your career.
About the Provision
Our approach is built around strong relational practice, nurture, and high-quality support for vulnerable learners. We are committed to:
- Small group teaching with no more than 12 learners per class, and a maximum of 10 within primary provision
- High staff-to-student ratios to ensure personalised support and meaningful relationships
- A trauma-informed and nurturing environment where pupils feel safe, understood, and valued
- Prioritising staff wellbeing as a key driver of positive student outcomes
- Creating inclusive pathways that support academic, emotional, and personal development
The Role of Head of Alternative Provision
As Head of Alternative Provision, you will play a central role in shaping strategy, driving quality, and building sustainable provision that meets the needs of young people with additional barriers to learning.
Key Responsibilities as Head of Alternative Provision:
- Lead the strategic development and growth of alternative provision across multiple sites
- Design and launch new SEND and Alternative Provision pathways
- Oversee the quality of education, behaviour, safeguarding, and learner outcomes
- Lead, develop, and support teaching and pastoral teams
- Create personalised, trauma-informed approaches to learning and behaviour support
- Develop strong partnerships with Local Authorities, schools, families, and external agencies
- Ensure high-quality provision for students with SEND, SEMH needs, and EHCPs
- Drive a culture of inclusion, accountability, and aspirational outcomes
What We're Looking For
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- Proven leadership experience within SEND, SEMH, or Alternative Provision settings
- Strong understanding of EHCP processes and supporting learners with complex needs
- A track record of improving outcomes for vulnerable or disengaged young people
- Experience developing provision, implementing new initiatives, or leading change
- Strong operational leadership alongside strategic vision
- Resilience, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to inclusive practice
- The ability to inspire staff teams and build strong professional relationships
What We Offer
Head of Alternative Provision Salary & Bonus
- Starting salary of £40,000
- Performance-based annual bonus of up to 10-15% linked to KPIs and growth milestones
Head of Alternative Provision Annual Leave & Wellbeing
- 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Birthday Day off
- Gym membership
- Pension contribution
- Flexible working arrangements where operationally possible
Career Progression as a Head of Alternative Provision
- Clear progression pathway into Senior and Executive Leadership roles
- The opportunity to grow alongside an expanding provision
Professional Development
- Funded CPD and leadership development opportunities
- Specialist SEND and Alternative Provision training
- The opportunity to shape innovative and impactful practice across the organisation
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to:
- Build and lead a flagship Alternative Provision model
- Have genuine influence over provision strategy and organisational growth
- Create lasting and meaningful change for children and young people
- Be part of a forward-thinking and values-led organisation committed to inclusion
Application Process
If you are ready to lead, innovate, and make a meaningful impact in Alternative Provision, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your up-to-date CV, including clear reference contacts, along with a cover letter evidencing how you meet the criteria for this role.
Head of Building in Barnsley employer: REESON Education
Contact Detail:
REESON Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Building in Barnsley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved in alternative provision. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show up and shine! Attend education fairs, workshops, or local events related to SEND and alternative provision. It's a great way to meet potential employers face-to-face and showcase your passion for inclusive education.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a school or organisation that aligns with your values, don’t wait for a job posting. Send them a message expressing your interest and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find roles that match your skills and aspirations. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and making a difference in alternative provision.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Building in Barnsley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Alternative Provision role. Highlight your leadership experience in SEND and SEMH settings, and don’t forget to showcase any initiatives you've led that improved outcomes for vulnerable learners.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain how your values align with our commitment to inclusive education. Share specific examples of how you've created meaningful change in previous roles.
Showcase Your Strategic Vision: In your application, demonstrate your strategic thinking. Talk about how you would develop new pathways for learners and ensure high-quality provision. We want to see your vision for the future of alternative provision!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at REESON Education
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the specifics of the role. Understand the key responsibilities and how your experience aligns with them. Be ready to discuss your leadership experience in SEND and SEMH settings, as well as any initiatives you've led that improved outcomes for vulnerable learners.
✨Show Your Passion for Inclusion
This role is all about creating an inclusive environment. Be prepared to share examples of how you've fostered inclusivity in previous roles. Discuss your commitment to building strong relationships with students, staff, and external agencies, and how you plan to continue this in the new position.
✨Bring Your Vision
As a Head of Alternative Provision, you'll need a strategic vision. Think about how you would shape the provision from the ground up. Prepare to articulate your ideas on developing new pathways for learners with SEND and SEMH needs, and how you would implement trauma-informed approaches.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions that show your interest in the organisation's values and goals. Ask about their approach to staff wellbeing and how they support professional development, as these are crucial for creating a positive learning environment.