Head of Vocational Pathways and Futures - Full-time in Medway

Shape Futures. Transform Lives. At City of Rochester School, we believe every young person deserves a future filled with possibility. We are seeking an ambitious, innovative and inspirational leader to join our growing leadership team as Head of Vocational Pathways and Futures. This is a unique opportunity to lead and develop our specialist post-16 provision, CoR CREATE+ (Computing, Robotics, Employability, Arts, Technical and Vocational Education, Enterprise +), helping pupils with autism develop the skills, confidence and independence they need to thrive in adulthood. This is far more than a traditional teaching role. It is an opportunity to shape vocational education, preparation for adulthood and careers provision across the school, ensuring every pupil leaves us ready for their next stage of life.

About Us: City of Rochester School is an independent specialist school for children and young people aged 5–18 with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC).

The Role:

• Lead and develop our innovative CoR CREATE+ Vocational College
• Design and implement high-quality vocational pathways that prepare pupils for adulthood
• Oversee careers education, work experience, employer engagement and destination planning
• Develop meaningful partnerships with colleges, employers, training providers and community organisations
• Ensure pupils gain relevant qualifications, workplace competencies and employability skills
• Lead preparation for adulthood initiatives, including independence, travel training, self-advocacy and financial capability
• Support staff development through coaching, mentoring and the sharing of excellent practice
• Monitor and evaluate outcomes, ensuring pupils achieve successful and sustainable destinations
• Play a key role in the strategic leadership and continued improvement of the school

We Are Looking For Someone Who:

• Is an outstanding classroom practitioner with high expectations for all pupils
• Has experience of leading vocational education, alternative accreditation or post-16 provision
• Understands careers education, Gatsby Benchmarks and preparation for adulthood outcomes
• Is passionate about improving life chances for young people with SEND
• Can inspire and develop colleagues through coaching and leadership
• Has excellent organisational, communication and partnership-building skills
• Shares our belief that every pupil can achieve meaningful success

Why Join Us? At City of Rochester School, you will join a dedicated and supportive team committed to making a genuine difference to the lives of children and young people. We offer:

• The opportunity to shape and lead an exciting area of school development
• A collaborative and supportive leadership team
• High-quality professional development and leadership opportunities
• A school culture built on kindness, ambition and continuous improvement
• The chance to make a lasting impact on pupils' futures

Safeguarding: City of Rochester School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks, satisfactory references and safer recruitment procedures.