About the Role

We are looking for an experienced and forward-thinking Head of Youth Education Programmes to lead the strategic development, delivery and quality of our 16–19 vocational and academic provision.

This is a vital leadership position within a leading Ofsted Grade 2 provider at the forefront of education and skills delivery for both young people and adults across the North West. The successful candidate will join a passionate, committed senior leadership team working collaboratively to shape inclusive, employer-responsive education that transforms lives.

You will oversee a diverse curriculum across sectors such as retail, logistics, construction, trades, health and social care, leisure, and digital industries, ensuring high-quality study programmes that equip young people with the skills and confidence to progress into work, apprenticeships or further study.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership across the 16–19 youth education portfolio, ensuring consistently high standards of teaching and learner experience
• Line manage curriculum and teaching staff, driving performance and professional growth
• Lead curriculum planning and development, ensuring programmes are engaging, inclusive and aligned with regional skills needs
• Maintain high levels of learner retention, achievement, attendance and progression
• Work closely with employers to ensure industry-informed curriculum and real-world learning opportunities
• Implement effective quality assurance, learner tracking and performance monitoring systems
• Contribute to organisational self-assessment and readiness for external inspection and audits
• Support student recruitment, induction and progression planning
• Promote safeguarding and wellbeing across all programmes, embedding inclusive practice

Person Specification

Essential:

• A recognised teaching qualification (e.g. PGCE, CertEd, or equivalent)
• Significant experience leading 16–19 funded education provision
• Proven ability to manage teams, drive improvement, and deliver strong learner outcomes
• Sound knowledge of Study Programmes and wider post-16 education frameworks
• Strategic thinking and strong leadership skills
• Excellent communication, organisational and stakeholder engagement abilities
• A deep commitment to inclusive, learner-focused education

Desirable:

• Multi-sector delivery experience across vocational subject areas
• Understanding of Adult Skills Fund (ASF) provision and compliance requirements
• Up-to-date knowledge of Foundation Apprenticeship pathways and pilots
• Experience supporting Ofsted inspection processes and quality assurance frameworks
• Experience developing employer partnerships for curriculum planning and delivery

About Us

We are a high-performing, community-focused training provider recognised for delivering high-quality learning that meets both individual and regional workforce needs. As a leading Ofsted Grade 2 provider, we offer innovative, responsive programmes that support young people and adults across Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Cheshire and Lancashire.

We work collaboratively with employers, local authorities, and communities to create progression pathways that close the NEET gap, address skills shortages, and raise aspirations.

As part of our senior leadership team, you will play a key role in shaping our future provision and impact.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to lead transformational education for young people and be part of a values-driven leadership team, we’d love to hear from you.