Head Of Education & Skills

Position: Head Of Education & Skills
OVERVIEW: HEAD OF EDUCATION & SKILLS

Shape the Future of Skills in a Critical UK Industry!

We are seeking an accomplished and forward-thinking Head of Education and Skills to lead and future-proof a nationally recognised Further Education and apprenticeship provision within a specialist industrial sector.

This is a senior leadership role with genuine influence. You will take full strategic and operational ownership of apprenticeship delivery and commercial training programmes, ensuring outstanding quality, regulatory compliance, and exceptional learner and employer experiences.

Working at the heart of a well-established organisation with a long-standing reputation for excellence, you will play a pivotal role in developing the workforce of the future and responding to the evolving needs of industry.

You will be a credible, experienced senior leader from a Further Education or vocational training background, with a strong record of delivering high-quality apprenticeship and commercial provision.

This role is hybrid, office based in Darlington for 3-4 days a week, working from home for the remainder of the week. There is also an option for a 4-day condensed working week with Fridays off.

SALARY/BENEFITS: HEAD OF EDUCATION & SKILLS

£50-£55K starting salary
Excellent Company Benefits Package
Flexible and friendly working environment
Options for a 4-day condensed working week with Fridays off
Access to private Health Care
25 days holiday plus Statutory Holidays plus your birthday offOVERVIEW; HEAD OF EDUCATION & SKILLS

To oversee all aspects of apprenticeship provision and drive continuous improvement across commercial training programmes
Lead, manage, and develop a high-performing education and training team
Drive quality assurance, standardisation, and performance management across all provision
Take a lead role in Ofsted inspection planning, readiness, and compliance
Explore and develop new FE funding opportunities and support high-quality bids
Lead innovation in training, and make a tangible impact on workforce development nationwide.

ESSENTIAL

EXPERIENCE:

HEAD OF EDUCATION & SKILLS

Extensive senior leadership experience within Further Education or vocational training
In-depth knowledge of Ofsted frameworks, quality assurance, and compliance
Strong understanding of apprenticeship standards, FE funding models, and accreditation
Proven ability to lead teams, manage resources, and deliver strategic change
Experience developing curricula aligned to employer and industry needs
Proven understanding of FE funding streams such as Adult Skills Fund, Skills Bootcamps, Free Courses for Jobs, Local/Devolved Funding, and Lifelong Learning Entitlement
Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills
Strong commitment to safeguarding, equality, and learner welfare