At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of a new Alternative Education programme for young people and adults.
- Company: Petty Pool Trust, a charity focused on inclusive education for those with learning difficulties.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to empowering individuals through education.
- Why this job: Shape lives by creating inclusive pathways for hard-to-reach learners.
- Qualifications: Experience in education, strong leadership skills, and a passion for inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
LOCATION: Petty Pool College, Pool Lane, Sandiway, Cheshire, CW8 2DR
REPORTS TO: Principal/Vice Principal
Monday to Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm – 35 hours per week
DBS: Enhanced check required
About Petty Pool Trust
Petty Pool Trust is a specialist charity committed to empowering young people and adults with learning disabilities, difficulties, and complex needs to achieve meaningful and sustainable futures through education, community provision, and outdoor learning experiences.
This is a unique and ambitious opportunity to lead the development of a brand new Alternative Education offer from the ground up, who can shape a high-quality, inclusive education pathway for some of the hardest-to-reach young people and adults in our region.
- Developing the intent, implementation and impact model for the provision.
- Setting up the programme and delivering it initially to ensure high-quality practice.
- Recruiting a delivery team and embedding a culture of inclusion and aspiration.
- Building relationships with local schools, SENDCos, and local authorities.
- Identifying funding opportunities and building a sustainable model.
You will design and deliver a rolling-entry offer for young people aged 16–24 who are not in education, employment or training (NEET), including those who have struggled to thrive in mainstream FE. Creating a flexible, barrier-aware curriculum and delivery model.
Once the 14–16 and 16–24 pathways are embedded, you will lead the development of adult education programmes, with a particular focus on adults with SEND and those seeking to return to learning.
- Tapping into the Adult Education Budget and other funding routes.
- Partnering with community groups and employers to increase impact.
This critical leadership role is pivotal in ensuring that all learners experience a high-quality, personalised provision that enables them to re-engage with education, achieve positive outcomes, and progress successfully into further education, employment, or training.
The postholder will be a key senior leader, responsible for building a culture of ambition, safeguarding excellence, high expectations, and continuous improvement across the Alternative Education service.
- Lead the strategic planning, design, and delivery of the Alternative Education programme.
- Represent the Alternative Education Service at senior leadership meetings, contributing to wider organisational development and strategic planning.
- Create strong links with wider community and educational partners, promoting Petty Pool Trust as a centre of excellence for inclusive education.
- Ensure the delivery of high-quality teaching, learning, pastoral support, and interventions that lead to demonstrable learner progress and social reintegration.
- Develop intervention strategies to support learners at risk of disengagement, including targeted academic, therapeutic, and behavioural programmes.
- Implement and oversee effective pastoral systems, behaviour support plans, and risk management strategies for all learners.
- Champion welfare, wellbeing, and inclusion across the service, ensuring learners’ individual needs are at the centre of planning and decision-making.
Operational and Financial Management
- Manage the day-to-day operational delivery of the Alternative Education, ensuring effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability.
- Lead and monitor all operational systems including timetabling, learner admissions, attendance monitoring, safeguarding recording, behaviour management, and quality assurance processes.
- Develop and manage the Alternative Education budget, ensuring resources are maximised and financial sustainability is maintained.
- Provide regular operational and financial performance updates to the Vice Principal and Senior Leadership Team.
- Recruit, lead, inspire, and develop the Alternative Education staff team, including teaching, support, and pastoral staff.
- Deliver staff induction, training, and development programmes linked to safeguarding, pastoral support, SEND, and curriculum quality.
- Lead regular performance reviews, coaching, and professional development planning for the team.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with schools, local authorities, social care teams.
- Actively market and promote the Alternative Education, ensuring positive engagement, referral growth, and sustainable funding streams.
- Represent Petty Pool Trust at multi-agency meetings, panels, and strategic networks.
Quality Assurance, Reporting, and KPIs
- Develop and implement a quality assurance framework for the Alternative Education, aligned with Ofsted standards and Petty Pool Trust’s internal quality cycle.
- Produce an annual Self-Assessment Report (SAR) and Quality Improvement Plan (QIP).
- Lead and coordinate internal quality assurance activities including lesson observations, learning.
- Track, analyse, and report regularly on key performance metrics including staff performance and CPD impact, financial and operational efficiency.
- Report quarterly to the Vice Principal and College Leadership Team on the performance of the Alternative Education against KPIs.
Head of Education/Deputy Headteacher in Cheshire employer: The Petty Pool Trust
Petty Pool Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a culture of inclusion and ambition, making it a rewarding place to work for those passionate about education and supporting individuals with learning disabilities. Located in the picturesque Cheshire countryside, employees benefit from a collaborative work environment that prioritises professional development and community engagement, ensuring that every team member can contribute to meaningful change in the lives of young people and adults. With a strong commitment to safeguarding and continuous improvement, Petty Pool Trust offers a unique opportunity to lead innovative educational programmes that empower learners to achieve their full potential.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Education/Deputy Headteacher in Cheshire
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the education sector. Attend local events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will not only help you answer questions but also show your genuine interest in the role at Petty Pool Trust.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family. Focus on articulating your vision for inclusive education and how you can lead the development of the Alternative Education programme effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Petty Pool Trust and making a difference in the lives of young people and adults.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Education/Deputy Headteacher in Cheshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of Education role. Highlight your experience with inclusive education and any relevant leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at Petty Pool Trust!
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for empowering young people shine through in your application. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in education, especially for those with SEND needs. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely committed to our cause!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised on our end!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Petty Pool Trust
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the role of Head of Alternative Education. Familiarise yourself with Petty Pool Trust's mission and values, especially their commitment to inclusive education. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to building a high-quality education pathway.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a senior leader, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to inspire and manage a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, particularly in educational settings. Highlight your strategies for fostering a culture of ambition and continuous improvement among staff and students.
✨Build Relationships
This role requires strong relationship-building skills with schools, local authorities, and community partners. Think of specific instances where you've successfully collaborated with external stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach building these relationships at Petty Pool Trust.
✨Prepare for Financial Discussions
Understanding education funding models is crucial for this position. Brush up on your knowledge of DfE Study Programmes, AEB, and EHCP placements. Be ready to discuss how you would manage budgets effectively and ensure financial sustainability for the Alternative Education programme.
