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- Tasks: Lead and develop a new Alternative Provision for children and young people in Sheffield.
- Company: Reeson Education, a values-driven organisation focused on inclusive education.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £40,000, performance bonuses, 30 days leave, and gym membership.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional development and clear progression into senior leadership roles.
- Why this job: Shape impactful educational pathways and create meaningful change for vulnerable learners.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in SEND or SEMH settings and a commitment to inclusive practice.
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 Sheffield. 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.
For more information or to apply for the Head of Alternative Provision role, please contact: Mitch Stringer.
We look forward to welcoming a dedicated Head of Alternative Provision to our team.
Head of Alternative Provision in Sheffield employer: REESON Education
Contact Detail:
REESON Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Alternative Provision in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved in alternative provision. Attend local events or webinars to meet potential colleagues and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for inclusive education during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles, particularly with SEND and SEMH needs. This will help you stand out as a values-driven leader.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare thoughtful questions for your interviewers about their vision for the alternative provision. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to shaping the future of the setting.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to 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 Alternative Provision in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Alternative Provision role. Highlight your leadership experience in SEND and SEMH settings, and don’t forget to mention any successful initiatives you've led!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about inclusive education and how your vision aligns with our values. Be specific about how you can contribute to shaping our provision.
Showcase Your Impact: When detailing your past roles, focus on the outcomes you’ve achieved for vulnerable learners. We want to see evidence of how you’ve improved student outcomes and created inclusive pathways in your previous positions.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at REESON Education
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of SEND, SEMH, and EHCP processes. Brush up on the latest trends in alternative provision and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the role's requirements.
✨Show Your Passion for Inclusion
This role is all about creating an inclusive environment. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully implemented inclusive practices in previous roles and how you plan to do so in this new setting.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Think about how you would shape the strategic development of the provision. Prepare to discuss your vision for the future and how you would approach launching new pathways for learners with additional needs.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
Remember, this is a leadership role. Show your emotional intelligence by engaging with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their current challenges and express genuine interest in their experiences and insights.