At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and enhance learning across multiple schools, ensuring exceptional teaching and pupil progress.
- Company: The Beacon, a values-driven educational community committed to excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive leadership culture.
- Other info: Join us in a dynamic environment focused on continuous improvement and safeguarding.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while empowering others to excel in their roles.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in education and a passion for curriculum development.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
The Beacon is entering an exciting new phase of growth as we scale our exceptional practice across multiple sites. With our learning community expanding into new territory, we are committed to maintaining the consistency, ambition and integrity that define who we are. As we grow, the strength of our values driven leadership will be the anchor that keeps our vision clear and our standards consistently high. We are now seeking an outstanding strategic leader to help shape, strengthen and sustain excellence across The Beacon Folkestone, Walmer and Castle Hill.
Across our schools, many elements of our work are sector‑leading—yet to us they feel embedded into every day. These include total collaboration such as whole‑community involvement in school improvement planning, genuinely developmental peer‑led coaching and a culture where professional growth is embedded, not imposed. As we scale‑up the great things we do, we are determined that these remain core strengths, acting as a springboard for greater things and are not diluted as we grow.
About the Role
This newly established senior leadership post will play a pivotal role in ensuring that curriculum, teaching, learning and pupil progress remain exceptional across all Beacon sites. Working alongside Heads of School at an equivalent senior level, the postholder will provide strategic direction, consistency and clarity—ensuring that “exceptional as standard” is lived, not stated. Over time, this role will collaborate closely with Heads of School and senior leaders to ensure they have the insight, tools and confidence to evaluate their impact and drive continuous improvement. Communication, collaboration and the ability to empower others—not instruct—are essential qualities.
Core Responsibilities
- Teaching and Learning — providing a whole‑community strategic overview
- Curriculum development — enhancing and evolving curriculum design across sites
- Pupil progress — ensuring progress is understood in its fullest, most meaningful form
- Achievement — driving high expectations and outcomes
- Moderation — embedding robust, developmental moderation processes
- ITT and ECT development — shaping the next generation of exceptional practitioners
Exceptional communication, collaboration, and a commitment to empowering others—rather than directing them—are essential qualities. We are committed to safeguarding children and young people. All roles require an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. If this opportunity sparks your curiosity and you would like to explore how this role will shape the next chapter of The Beacon, we warmly invite you to contact us to find out more.
Contact: HR team on 01303 847555 hr@thebeacon.kent.sch.uk
Head of Learning - Full-time in Folkestone employer: Sandwich Infant
The Beacon is an exceptional employer that prioritises a values-driven leadership culture, fostering collaboration and professional growth across its expanding learning community in Folkestone, Walmer, and Castle Hill. With a commitment to maintaining high standards and a supportive environment, employees are empowered to drive continuous improvement and innovation in teaching and learning, making it a rewarding place for those seeking meaningful contributions to education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Learning - Full-time in Folkestone
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend events, and connect with others on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. We want to see how you align with our mission at The Beacon. Practice common interview questions and think about how your experience can contribute to our exceptional learning community.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills through real-life examples. When we ask about your experience, share specific stories that highlight your strategic leadership and ability to empower others. This will help us see how you can make an impact at The Beacon.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in our minds as we make our decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Learning - Full-time in Folkestone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for education and leadership shine through. We want to see how your values align with ours and how you can contribute to our mission of maintaining high standards across all Beacon sites.
Be Specific:Use concrete examples from your past experiences to illustrate your skills in curriculum development and pupil progress. We love seeing how you've made a real impact in previous roles, so don’t hold back on the details!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of Learning role. Highlight your strategic vision and how you plan to empower others, as these are key qualities we’re looking for.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at The Beacon!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sandwich Infant
✨Know the Values Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into The Beacon's values and mission. Understand how they shape the learning environment and be ready to discuss how your leadership style aligns with their commitment to collaboration and community involvement.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
Prepare to articulate your vision for curriculum development and pupil progress. Think about specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully implemented strategic changes that led to measurable improvements in teaching and learning.
✨Emphasise Empowerment Over Instruction
During the interview, highlight your approach to empowering others rather than directing them. Share stories that demonstrate how you've fostered a culture of professional growth and collaboration among staff, ensuring everyone feels valued and involved.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Have a set of insightful questions ready to ask the interviewers. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge how well your leadership philosophy aligns with The Beacon's goals, especially regarding their expansion and commitment to excellence.
