159 Head of education delivery jobs

Lead a respected counselling charity and help shape the future of mental health support in our community.

If you're an inspiring leader who combines strategic thinking with a hands-on approach, this is an opportunity to make a lasting difference. As our new Head of Centre, you'll lead an established, BACP-accredited charity with an excellent reputation for delivering affordable, high-quality counselling and professional training across West Kent and East Sussex.

For almost 40 years, The Counselling Centre has been committed to ensuring that everyone can access professional counselling, regardless of their financial circumstances. We are now looking for an exceptional leader to build on this legacy, strengthening our financial sustainability, developing new partnerships and expanding our impact to meet the growing demand for mental health support.

Reporting to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will provide both strategic and operational leadership across the organisation. You'll work closely with our dedicated staff, volunteers and trustees to ensure we continue to deliver outstanding counselling, training and community services while identifying opportunities for growth, innovation and long-term sustainability.

This is a varied and rewarding leadership role. You'll oversee the day-to-day running of the charity, lead financial planning and income generation, develop relationships with funders, commissioners, businesses and community partners, and act as an ambassador for The Counselling Centre across the local area. You'll also champion our values, nurture a positive organisational culture and ensure we continue to meet the highest standards of governance and professional practice.

We're looking for someone who brings senior leadership experience, commercial awareness and a genuine commitment to improving mental health. You'll be an excellent relationship builder with experience of developing partnerships, generating income and leading organisational change. Most importantly, you'll be motivated by our mission and excited by the opportunity to help shape the next chapter of our organisation.

Why join us?

• Lead a respected charity with an outstanding reputation built over almost 40 years.

• Make a genuine difference to the lives of people in your local community.

• Work alongside a committed Board of Trustees, experienced staff and dedicated volunteers.

• Help shape the future direction and growth of an ambitious organisation.

• Enjoy a flexible part-time role (21 hours per week) with hybrid working.

• Competitive salary of circa £50,000–£55,000 per annum pro rata, contributory pension, 25 days' annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays, and Christmas closure.

If you're looking for a leadership role where your strategic vision, commercial skills and passion for community impact can make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Job Title: Partnership Events Coordinator (Inspiring the Future)

Reports to: Head of Partnership Delivery

Location: Quantum House, 22 – 24 Red Lion Court, Fleet Street, EC4A 3AB. The role is open to hybrid working but the candidate would be expected to be in the office one day per week

Purpose: This is a fantastic opportunity to take on the role of Partnership Events Coordinator for Education and Employers on the internationally recognised Inspiring the Future programme. The Charity aims to ensure that all young people have the inspiration, motivation, knowledge, skills and opportunities they need to help them achieve their potential.

This key post is part of the Partnerships Team with responsibility for supporting the team to deliver various showcase virtual and face-to-face events and activities involving a diverse range of volunteers from the world of work. The role is rewarding and varied and will include supporting delivery of funded partnerships and general administrative support.

Remuneration: £27k per annum

Additional Terms: 30 days paid holiday, exclusive of Statutory Holiday plus competitive pension scheme and a volunteering allowance of up to 5 days – pro rata in accordance with the length of contract. Additional family friendly benefits including enhancements to Statutory Payments.

Appointment Terms: Permanent and full time

Job Purpose:
Reporting to the Head of Partnership Delivery and working closely with colleagues in the Partnerships Team, the Partnership Events Coordinator is responsible for working closely with volunteers and school staff to support successful delivery of interactive activities aimed at schools and young people under key funded projects for the charity’s Inspiring the Future and Primary Futures programmes. These programmes leverage technology to raise the aspirations and broaden the horizons of children and young people by connecting them to a huge range of volunteers from the world of work via career related learning activities.

The Partnerships team are responsible for relationship management of the key corporate and charity partners for the charity’s Inspiring the Future and Primary Futures programmes. Partners cover a range of sectors and employment areas and our employer partnerships provide partners employees with the opportunity to engage with schools and reach many children and young people across the UK, both virtually and in-person.

This role will be split between supporting organisation of activities related to our corporate partners and delivering activities to schools across parts of the country. There is opportunity to interface directly with children and young people from both secondary and primary schools. through facilitating virtual and in person interactive activities with volunteers.

The Partnership Events Coordinator will be an integral member of the Partnerships Team as well as working closely with the wider Inspiring the Future team. The role will help coordinate and deliver engaging activities across a diverse portfolio of partnerships such as Bank of America, Amazon, Tritax Big Box, Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust, Maritime UK, CIPD and the ERA Foundation.

This is a dynamic role for someone looking to gain a breadth of experience in the charity sector and keen to learn about the education sector and career-related learning, social mobility and volunteer engagement. We are looking for someone passionate about motivating and inspiring children who relishes working with a range of stakeholders to create impactful activities. Education and Employers is a friendly, diverse, and welcoming organisation and the successful candidate will be well supported.

Key Accountabilities:

The exact brief will be finalised with the successful candidate but the role will be expected to undertake the following key accountabilities:

Enquiries management and administrative support across the programme team

• Providing administrative support across the team, including record-keeping, responding to incoming enquiries, data entry, meeting minute-taking, scheduling, event coordination, etc
• Monitoring new event registrations from schools and sending welcome emails, keeping this up to date with the latest opportunities and messaging for schools
• Tracking and reporting back to Head of Partnership Delivery and Events Lead on delivery against agreed targets
• Using Salesforce CRM to support with data management, assisting with maintaining up to date records and supporting data cleansing as needed
• Setting up virtual and face-to-face activities including school liaison, securing volunteers, organising events via the Inspiring the Future system and hosting on tech platforms (Zoom, MS Teams etc)
• Supporting the collection of feedback and data after each event to measure impact
• Managing the enquiries inbox and/or switchboard phone number, responding to enquiries from schools and volunteers about the charity’s work and programmes and how to sign up

Delivery

• Recruiting and engaging schools according to the geographic or sector focus of a funded partnership
• Supporting the engagement of employers and volunteers in special activities within funded projects.
• Facilitating interactive virtual and face to face activities to connect pupils with volunteers through themed sessions, Q&A or job guessing-game format.
• Contributing to the successful delivery of a funded project with the ERA Foundation, supporting the wider team to plan, coordinate and deliver activities including volunteer recruitment, development of resources, and outreach and engagement with schools and teachers.
• Supporting and co-hosting teacher training sessions, staff meetings and info webinars to promote Inspiring the Future and encourage engagement and independent usage of the platform.
• Supporting the development of educational resources that provide insight into the world of work and different sectors
• Other ad hoc tasks to support the team as needed, such as administration of school competitions, etc

We are looking for an agile worker, capable of absorbing key information quickly, as well as handle a voluminous workload. Education and Employers is a small charity working at a rapid pace to bring about change and the ideal candidate will be a self-starter with strong communication skills, able to absorb key information quickly and work well with a small team in a dynamic working environment.

Person specification:

We are looking for someone with the following Skills/ Knowledge/ Expertise

Skills/ Knowledge/ Expertise

Essential

• Minimum one year’s experience in a customer service, school engagement or school-based role
• Experience in successful relationship management – ability to engage confidently and sensitively with schools/colleges and at a range of levels of seniority up to and including headteacher level
• Outstanding customer service and telephone manner, including handling large volumes of email enquiries and dealing with difficult situations politely and assertively
• Strong organisational and administrative skills including close attention to detail and effective time management
• Persuasive and confident communicator who is influential, and effective in presenting a concept both in person and on the phone.
• Good level of education, demonstrating capability in producing written content to a high standard.
• Demonstrable experience of managing a diverse workload; being able to prioritise work and working under pressure.
• Good working knowledge and practical application of Microsoft Office tools

Desirable

• Passion for supporting young people in realising their potential through harnessing skilled volunteers to engage in education
• Experience in virtual facilitation with children and young people
• Experience of project management and delivery
• Experience of client relationships management (CRM) databases, in particular Salesforce
• Experience of marketing to schools
• Experience of working in a small team
• Experience of working with volunteers
• Understanding of safeguarding, risk management and data protection
• Comfort and confidence in working with data to inform actions

Personal Attributes

• Uphold our charity’s values - Inspiring, Inclusive, Innovative, Impactful, Integrity
• Flexible – responsive to changing operational context and new opportunities
• Team Player: working collaboratively and flexibly to achieve outcomes and is keen to add value to the organisation’s culture and ethos
• Able to undertake some occasional work in the evenings and at weekends
• Able to travel in the UK if required

Application process

The Education and Employers charity values having a diverse workforce. We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds. We offer a range of inclusive employment and family friendly policies as well as flexible working arrangements in order to support staff from different backgrounds.

The closing date for applications is 9am on Monday 12th October and interviews will take place in the week of the 19th October. The organisation reserves the right to conduct interviews and appoint prior to the closing date dependent on the calibre of applications received.
Please send a covering letter setting out your interest in and suitability for the role and a CV. Please include your name and the role applied for in the subject line of your e-mail.

*Please note, in your cover letter we have a strong preference for human-written content. We want to hear about you, your genuine interest in the role, and why from your experience, skills, and personality you feel you are a great fit for the role

We will only consider applications with both a CV and covering letter and applications will only be accepted from those with the right to work in the UK with a valid passport/visa.

Thank you for taking the time to consider this role. We very much look forward to receiving your application!

The Charity is fully committed to safeguarding those in our care. We plan our recruitment processes to ensure effective timelines for any required vetting processes such as enhanced DBS, qualification, reference and identity checks. The Charity also ensures that each staff member is appropriately trained for their duties with a comprehensive induction process on commencement and regular CPD in areas like safeguarding.

Job Description

Job Title: Primary Futures Project Manager (Maternity Cover)

Reports to: Head of School Programmes

Location: The role is open to hybrid or fully remote working but the candidate would be expected to be able to occasionally travel to schools within the funded project areas (including Westminster, Chester and Lancashire) and attend occasional meetings at the charity’s offices located at Quantum House, 22 – 24 Red Lion Court, Fleet Street, EC4A 3AB.

Purpose: Are you an experienced project manager with knowledge of the primary education sector who can confidently lead an exciting funded project for 12 months, helping children broaden their horizons and discover their futures? This is a fantastic opportunity to take on the role of Primary Futures Project Manager for Education and Employers charity supporting the delivery of our internationally recognised career-related learning programme in primary schools. The programme is called Inspiring the Future and is known as Primary Futures in primary schools.

Through our programmes, our charity brings inspiring volunteers from the world of work into schools, helping children learn in a fun way about a wide range of future jobs and career pathways, broadening their horizons and raising their aspirations and attainment. School activity sits at the heart of our charity’s mission which is to: ‘ensure that every young person in our country, wherever they live, whatever their parents or carers’ circumstances, has the opportunity to meet a diverse range of volunteers to hear first-hand about jobs and the world of work’.

This important role will manage and lead the day-to-day delivery of a key primary school focused project for the charity, funded by the Westminster Foundation. Responsibilities include leading the delivery and coordination of a multi-year funded project, managing stakeholder and funder relationships, overseeing programme activity across schools and partners, monitoring performance against targets and budgets, reporting on impact and outcomes, and providing line management and support to a remote team member to ensure successful project delivery.

Remuneration: £36k per annum FTE.

Additional Terms: We offer an excellent overall package with 30 days paid holiday, exclusive of Statutory Bank Holidays, plus a competitive pension scheme and a volunteering allowance of up to 5 days per annum – pro rata in accordance with the length of contract. Additional family friendly benefits, including enhancements to Statutory Payments.

Appointment Terms: This is a fixed-term, maternity cover role until at least end of November 2027. This role is advertised as part-time (0.6-0.8 FTE) - responsibilities will be adjusted proportionally for part-time candidates.

Job Purpose:

Reporting to the Head of Schools Programmes, the Primary Futures Project Manager (Maternity Cover) will lead the delivery of a major funded project that helps children broaden their horizons, challenge stereotypes and discover the wide range of opportunities available to them in the future. Through Education and Employers' Primary Futures programme, the role will support schools to connect children with inspiring volunteers from the world of work, helping to raise aspirations and develop career-related learning across primary education.

The successful candidate will take day-to-day responsibility for the delivery of this multi-year project. ensuring activity is delivered on time, within budget and in line with agreed objectives and funding requirements. Working closely with schools, employers, volunteers and the funder, they will lead project delivery across a range of workstreams including school engagement, teacher training, volunteer mobilisation, communications, evaluation and reporting.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced project manager with knowledge of the primary education sector to play a leading role in a nationally recognised charity. The postholder will combine project leadership, stakeholder management and school engagement to ensure high-quality delivery and lasting impact for participating schools, teachers and children, while supporting the long-term success of the programme.

The role is open to hybrid or home-based working, with occasional travel to schools and project activities across Westminster, Chester and Lancashire, alongside occasional meetings with colleagues at the charity's London office.

What we are looking for in a candidate:

We are seeking a driven, highly capable, and enthusiastic Project Manager who can confidently manage a funder relationship, work efficiently to ensure project delivery remains on track and deliver engaging presentations to employers, children, and teachers.  You will bring excellent communication, organisational, and project management skills, along with experience in working with or in primary schools that can support design and delivery of project resources and events and an interest in career-related learning and social mobility.

Education and Employers is a small charity working at a rapid pace to bring about change. We are a friendly, diverse, and welcoming organisation and the successful candidate will be well supported. The Primary Futures Project Manager will work closely with the Director of Programmes, Head of School Programmes and wider Inspiring the Future team to undertake the following key accountabilities:

Key Accountabilities:

Project Management

• Lead the day-to-day management and coordination of a five-year funded project, ensuring delivery is aligned with agreed objectives, targets, timescales, budgets and funder requirements.
• Maintain and oversee detailed project plans, delivery schedules and internal tracking systems to ensure all workstreams are effectively coordinated and milestones are achieved.
• Coordinate activity across multiple project workstreams, including primary school engagement, programme delivery, teacher training, primary-aged resource development, volunteer and employer mobilisation, evaluation, communications and reporting.
• Monitor progress against project KPIs and delivery targets and taking appropriate action to maintain successful delivery.
• Contribute to the longer-term development and sustainability of the project, ensuring learning from delivery is captured and used to inform future years of the programme.
• Manage relationships with the funder and other key project stakeholders, ensuring clear communication, appropriate involvement and timely sharing of progress and learning.

Delivery

• Take overall responsibility for the successful delivery of the project's programme of activity, ensuring participating primary schools receive a high-quality and consistent experience.
• Lead the development of high-quality primary-aged resources for teachers, pupils and parents/carers, overseeing the scoping, creation, and refinement of materials to support project delivery and enable schools to sustain career-related learning beyond the funded programme.
• Lead engagement and delivery with a designated group of participating primary schools, developing strong relationships with teachers and school leaders and tailoring support to their needs.
• Maintain a clear understanding of the needs and context of participating primary schools and geographical areas, using this insight to inform project planning and delivery.
• Ensure teacher training and support builds schools' capacity and confidence to embed career-related learning and independently use Primary Futures beyond the funded intervention.
• Oversee volunteer and employer mobilisation required to meet project delivery needs, working collaboratively with colleagues, employers and local stakeholders.

Reporting

• Lead on the collection of project data and feedback to monitor progress, demonstrate impact and inform ongoing improvements to delivery.
• Oversee the implementation of appropriate reporting mechanisms, including Salesforce and SurveyMonkey, to ensure accurate and timely recording of project activity and outcomes.
• Ensure project data and evidence are accurate, timely and sufficient to demonstrate progress against agreed KPIs and funding requirements.
• Produce high-quality progress updates, reports and other project documentation for senior leadership and funders.

Line Management

• Provide effective line management, direction and support to a remote team member, including performance management, professional development and regular review of progress.
• Plan and allocate workloads, balancing competing priorities and ensuring resources are effectively deployed to meet project and organisational targets.
• Provide oversight and direct leadership of key project activities, including employer encounters, virtual events, teacher training and primary school-based delivery.
• Work collaboratively across Education and Employers to ensure communications, research, evaluation and employer engagement support project delivery.

Person specification:

We are looking for someone with the following Skills/ Knowledge/ Expertise

Skills/Knowledge/Expertise

Essential

• Experience of working with primary schools, teachers or other education professionals, with a good understanding of the primary education context. (Ideally 2–3 years experience.)
• Strong project management experience, including coordinating complex, multi-year funded projects and delivering against agreed objectives, targets, timescales, budgets and funder requirements. (Ideally 2–3 years experience.)
• Experience of successful relationship management, with the ability to engage confidently and sensitively with funders, schools and education professionals at a range of levels of seniority.
• Experience of line managing staff, including setting objectives, providing direction, performance management, coaching and development support.
• Experience of collecting, managing and interpreting project data to produce high-quality reports for senior colleague and funders and demonstrate progress against agreed objectives, outcomes and KPIs
• Experience of developing, reviewing or improving primary-aged resources, programmes or activities for children, young people and/or education professionals.
• Understanding of the evidence base underpinning career-related learning at primary age and its role in broadening children's aspirations, knowledge and understanding of the world of work.
• Understanding of safeguarding, risk management and data protection and their application within an education or project delivery context.

Desirable

• Passion for supporting children and young people to realise their potential, including through the engagement of skilled volunteers and employers in education.
• Experience of working within the charity, education, social mobility, careers or youth sectors.
• Experience of motivating, supporting and coordinating volunteers to deliver activities impactfully and successfully
• Experience of identifying and managing risks, resolving problems and taking appropriate action to maintain successful project delivery.
• Experience of facilitating virtual activities with children and young people, including creating an engaging and interactive online environment.

Personal Attributes

• Commitment to uphold our charity’s five values - Inspiring, Inclusive, Innovative, Impactful, Integrity
• Enthusiastic about inspiring children and supporting social mobility.
• Flexible – responsive to changing operational context and new opportunities
• Team Player: working collaboratively and flexibly to achieve outcomes and is keen to add value to the organisation’s culture and ethos
• Able to undertake some occasional work in the evenings and at weekends
• Able to travel in the UK if required

Application process

The Education and Employers charity values having a diverse workforce. We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds. We offer a range of inclusive employment and family friendly policies as well as flexible working arrangements in order to support staff from different backgrounds. 

The closing date for applications is 9am on Monday 5th October and interviews will take place in the week of the 12th October. The organisation reserves the right to conduct interviews and appoint prior to the closing date dependent on the calibre of applications received.

Please send a covering letter of no more than 2 sides of A4 setting out your interest in and suitability for the role against the job description and person specification, together with an up to date CV. 

*Please note, in your cover letter we have a strong preference for human-written content. We want to hear about you, your genuine interest in the role, and why from your experience, skills, and personality you feel you are a great fit for the role

We will only consider applications with both a CV and covering letter and applications will only be accepted from those with the right to work in the UK with a valid passport/visa. 

Thank you for taking the time to consider this role. We very much look forward to receiving your application!

The Charity is fully committed to safeguarding those in our care. We plan our recruitment processes to ensure effective timelines for any required vetting processes such as enhanced DBS, qualification, reference and identity checks. The Charity also ensures that each staff member is appropriately trained for their duties with a comprehensive induction process on commencement and regular CPD in areas like safeguarding. 

Scope and senior accountability

Hold delegated senior responsibility for the performance, quality, workforce, safeguarding and development of the children and family services portfolio.

Lead EHWP+ as a key commissioned programme, ensuring that delivery remains aligned with contract requirements, local need, agreed outcomes and Spring North’s values.

Hold senior accountability for the effective management and delivery of counselling and therapeutic services within the portfolio, including service quality, practitioner practice, professional standards, supervision arrangements and continuous improvement.

Balance strategic direction with strong operational grip, intervening early where delivery, safety, quality, finance or partnership performance is at risk.

Contribute to whole-organisation leadership, growth, resilience and culture as an active member of the Senior Leadership Team.

4. Key accountabilities

4.1 Strategic leadership of children and family services

• Develop and implement a clear strategic direction for EHWP+ and the wider children and family services portfolio, aligned with Spring North’s organisational strategy and local commissioning priorities.
• Maintain a strong understanding of the changing needs of children, young people, parents and carers, using data, lived experience, professional insight and community intelligence to shape priorities.
• Create a more connected portfolio by linking existing services, clarifying pathways and reducing gaps, duplication and avoidable hand-offs for families.
• Promote early help, prevention, relationship-based and strengths-based approaches that improve emotional health, wellbeing, resilience and family outcomes.
• Keep abreast of policy, legislation, evidence and emerging practice affecting children, young people and families, translating these into proportionate action.

4.2 EHWP+ programme leadership and delivery

• Provide senior leadership and direction to the EHWP+ team, creating a shared focus on access, quality, outcomes, partnership delivery and continuous improvement.
• Lead the operational delivery of counselling and therapeutic provision, ensuring clear service models, referral and allocation arrangements, appropriate caseload management, safe thresholds, effective practitioner deployment and consistent therapeutic practice across employed teams and delivery partners.
• Ensure counselling and therapeutic interventions are delivered by appropriately qualified and competent practitioners, with suitable induction, supervision, continuing professional development and access to specialist or clinical advice where required.
•  Ensure that service plans, capacity, resources and delivery arrangements are sufficient to meet contractual commitments and respond appropriately to local need.
• Establish clear management arrangements, decision-making routes and performance expectations across employed teams and delivery partners.
•  Review delivery data, caseload or activity information, outcomes, waiting times, feedback and emerging risks; agree and monitor corrective action where required.
• Ensure that the voice of children, young people, parents and carers is visible in-service design, review and improvement.
• Support effective mobilisation, change and service redesign when contracts, need or evidence require a different delivery response.

Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service provides specialist care and support to babies, children and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions, and their families. Our services extend across Berkshire and into surrounding counties.

We are looking for an experienced and inspirational Head of Care to join our Senior Clinical Team and provide strong operational and clinical leadership across our care services.

This is a key leadership role within the organisation, working closely with the Director of Care and Lead for Quality and Governance to ensure that children and families receive safe, effective and compassionate care.

About the role

As Head of Care, you will have responsibility for the operational management, quality and delivery of our care provision, including community care, day care, inpatient care, education and after-death care.

You will provide visible and supportive leadership to the Care Team, ensuring appropriate staffing, skill mix, competence and professional development. You will also lead our Practice Education Team and help embed a positive, inclusive learning culture across the organisation.

Working as part of the Senior Clinical Team, you will contribute to clinical strategy, governance, risk management, audit, service development and CQC compliance. You will also act as a Joint Registered Manager and deputise for the Director of Care when required.

An important part of the role will be building effective relationships with external health and social care professionals and partner organisations, helping to develop an integrated palliative care model across Berkshire and surrounding areas.

About you

You will be a Registered Children's Nurse (RN Child) with significant clinical management experience and a strong understanding of caring for children and young people with complex health needs.

You will bring:

• Experience of clinical leadership and managing and motivating teams.
• Experience of delivering high-quality care to children and young people with complex needs.
• Knowledge and experience of clinical governance, audit and evidence-based practice.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to manage conflict effectively.
• Strong organisational, leadership and team-building skills.
• A relevant degree or equivalent and postgraduate study, ideally in palliative care, leadership or education.
• Experience of working in children's palliative care, with experience of end-of-life and post-death care desirable.
• A strong commitment to safeguarding, equality, dignity and family-centred care.

Most importantly, you will be enthusiastic, self-motivated and compassionate, with the ability to inspire others and translate our values into everyday practice.

Why join Alexander Devine?

This is an opportunity to take a senior leadership role in a growing children's hospice service where your experience, ideas and leadership will have a direct impact on children and families.

You will join a committed and supportive Senior Clinical Team and have the opportunity to shape the future development of our care services, while helping to develop the skills, confidence and wellbeing of the wider Care Team.

Our values – determined, empowering, valuing others, integrity, nurture and empathy – are at the heart of everything we do.

If you are an experienced children's nurse looking for a challenging and rewarding leadership role where you can make a genuine difference, we would love to hear from you.

This role requires an Enhanced DBS check, including appropriate barred lists, a current full driving licence and satisfactory Occupational Health clearance.

Head of Growth

Job reference: REQ005617

Salary: £71,677 - £75,000 per annum

Contractual hours: 37.5

Basis: Full Time

Region: London

Apply by 30 September 2026.

United Learning is a large, and growing, group of schools aiming to offer a life changing education to children and young people across England.

Central Office staff work closely with schools, offering a wealth of expertise to underpin schools' own knowledge. Our specialist departments, including HR, finance, technology, strategy and performance, estates, and marketing, work alongside dedicated school improvement teams. By joining us, you will provide ongoing support to schools, ultimately improving the outcomes of our pupils.

United Learning is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All positions are subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and shortlisted candidates will be subject to an online check.

We always appoint on merit, and we are open to discussing flexible working options.

Job description

We are seeking a Head of Growth to lead the delivery of United Learning’s continued growth as an organisation, transforming education in more communities and benefiting more children and young people across England.

You will be responsible and accountable for all aspects of growth strategy delivery and for ensuring positive outcomes for new joining schools (pupils, staff, parents and wider communities) and for the organisation as a whole. You will work with a team of specialist colleagues across United Learning’s central teams – school improvement, finance, HR, technology – to ensure that robust plans are in place throughout the process, ensuring that each school has the support it needs to thrive as part of the Group.

You will ensure that schools have a positive experience at all stages, from the point of their first contact with United Learning through to joining the organisation and beyond. You will often be the first point of contact, explaining to school leaders and governors the benefits of being part of United Learning and what to expect throughout the process.

You will also oversee implementation of United Learning’s strategy for growing local ‘clusters’ of schools, enabling schools to benefit from meaningful local educational collaboration and from high quality and efficient support services that represent excellent value for money.

About You

We are seeking someone with proven experience of managing complex projects and delivering to tight timescales, combined with strong leadership and stakeholder management skills. You will have an eye for detail and be able to spot and work with others to resolve potential issues, often dealing with novel situations. You will be confident providing advice to senior leaders – including Trustees and members of the Executive Team – combining leadership of our strategic aims with disciplined operational management.

You will be a skilled communicator and be able to build effective relationships with colleagues and stakeholders with different professional backgrounds and experience, in schools and our central teams. Your commitment to providing excellent service to schools – from those that are simply exploring their options to those that are in the process of joining United Learning – to promoting a culture of continuous improvement and to bringing out the best in your team will shape the approach you take to your work.

If you are passionate about improving outcomes for children, young people, their families and the communities they live in, are interested in joining a team that shares your passion, and meet the person specification, we would very much like to hear from you. We are open to offering the role as a secondment and are particularly keen to receive applications from individuals from backgrounds currently under-represented in our senior leadership cadre.

Rewards and Benefits:

· Competitive salary.

· Contributory pension scheme.

· 26 days holiday

· Occupational sick pay, protecting you and your family.

· Competitive maternity, paternity, and adoption benefits.

· Group Life Insurance Scheme

· Westfield Health cash plan and extensive range of employee benefits for eligible staff

· Continuous Professional Development options that will be tailored to your needs

· A supportive team across the country

We are open to requests for flexible working; and we encourage open and regular conversations about work-life balance.

Further information

This vacancy closes at midnight on 30 September. Please note we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a large volume of applications.

For a confidential discussion about this role or the process, please contact: Anna Paige

Internal applicants should submit their application via their ESS account within the Current Vacancies section. You will be required to submit a personal statement with a summary of your experience that make you suitable for this role. There is a character limit of 4000-character limit (roughly one and a half to two sides of A4).

Where support is better shared

United Learning comprises: UCST (Registered in England No: 2780748. Charity No. 1016538) and ULT (Registered in England No. 4439859. An Exempt Charity). Companies limited by guarantee. VAT number 834 8515 12. Registered address: United Learning, Worldwide House, Thorpe Wood, Peterborough, PE3 6SB.

The essentials …

• Permanent, full-time
• £42,000 - £45,000 per annum (depending on experience)
• Hybrid working with some days per week based in our London office

Our new Head of Education (HoE) will provide strategic direction to, and oversight for, all activities within our Education Department, including age 5 – 18 education and Higher Education. This will include responsibility for the annual budget, the line management of our Education Team, and liaison with our Education and Joint Higher Education Committees to deliver impactful and accessible initiatives that promote awareness and understanding of the Earth and beyond. In addition, the HoE will project manage the Society’s flagship ‘This is Geoscience’ initiative until 2028.

Who are we?

Founded in 1807, we are the oldest geological society in the world. Today, we are a world-leading communicator of Earth science – through publishing, library and information services, cutting-edge scientific conferences, education activities and outreach to the general public. We also provide impartial scientific information and evidence to support policy-making and public debate about the challenges facing humanity.

We have a membership (Fellowship) of c. 12,000, more than 2,000 of whom are based outside the UK. Approximately 3,000 are Chartered Geologists or Chartered Scientists – professionals who have demonstrated a high level of technical competence in their field and a commitment to professional ethics.

What you’ll be doing …

Working in partnership with senior staff, our Education Committee, and Trustees, you will advance the Society’s Education objectives in line with our Education Strategy, providing expertise and strategic direction to ensure the development of trusted Education initiatives for all ages.

You will be designing, planning, and delivering projects aimed at improving learning outcomes for young people, students, key stakeholders, and the wider geoscience community, as well as participating in government consultation and policy work where relevant. Beyond this, you can expect to foster strong relationships with key stakeholders and external partners to ensure that the Society continues to embed itself as an inclusive and reliable role model within the geoscience education space, and a leader to the wider geoscience community on a global scale.

Overall responsibilities / requirements …

Main Responsibilities:

• Manage the delivery and promotion of education initiatives across the Society, aligned with the objectives of our Education Strategy.
• Oversee the implementation and continued development of the Society’s Education Strategy, working with the Director of Science & Engagement to maintain and grow support from senior stakeholders across the organisation and the wider geoscience community.
• Oversee all work related to the training, professional development, and support of teachers – from the development and dissemination of quality resources to the delivery of training and capacity building programs.
• Provide strategic direction and managerial support toward the recruitment, maintenance and evolution of our education volunteer program.
• Promotion and dissemination of education resources and activity including relevant email marketing, social media campaigns and web content.
• Further develop the Society’s flagship ‘This is Geoscience’ initiative over the next two years, focusing on both education and careers support within UK secondary schools, and a global public engagement campaign focused on geoscience careers.
• Work collaboratively with, and support, relevant stakeholders to deliver existing education programs.
• Support the Education Team through attendance at Education Committee and Joint Higher Education Committee meetings, as well as with planning for and attending internal and external education events.
• Engage with the Higher Education sector and early career professionals via our Joint Higher Education Committee (JHEC) in partnership with University Geoscience UK (UGUK), and the Society’s Early Career Network, to promote geoscience as an undergraduate degree choice and a sustainable career path, with an awareness of EDIA related issues concerning widening participation.
• Maintain networks and connections across the geoscience education space to remain informed about the needs of teachers, students and the wider public in relation to geoscience education and careers.
• To be alert to new opportunities for collaboration, liaising with other senior managers and directors where relevant.

Activities:

• Develop interventions and initiatives for strategic objectives as ascribed, working alongside the Director of Science & Engagement where relevant.
• Monitor and report on the progress of strategic objectives to key stakeholders.
• Act as an ambassador for the department, celebrating successes internally and externally and identifying and acting on opportunities for improvement.
• Research on current and emerging trends in the education landscape with a view to raising opportunities to collaborate, apply for funding, further promote initiatives, and share best practice and ideas across the wider team.
• Attend, lead, or develop meetings and events relating to education at all levels on behalf of and for the geoscience community.

Collaborative working:

• Maintain and develop relationships with education professionals and organisations through stakeholder engagement activities.
• Lead the coordination of education projects with external stakeholders and partners to support the delivery of key deliverables (e.g. Earth Science Teachers Association, This is Geoscience, Geoscience for the Future, The Geographers Association, the Royal Geographical Society, University Geoscience UK, UK Geoscience Strategic Alliance).
• Working alongside the Chair of the Education Committee, attend and support the Education Team with providing secretariat for the Society’s Education Committee, reporting into our External Relations Committee.
• Working with the Head of Policy and Communications to carry out research with Fellows, partner organisations, and other stakeholders to contribute to education policy activity such as consultation responses, briefings, and public statements.
• Working alongside the ‘This is Geoscience’ project team, lead the project management of deliverables and outcomes to ensure the project meets its aims and objectives across the next two years.

Other responsibilities and expectations …

• Attend external training and personal development events to keep abreast of developments in education across the Earth science sector and ahead of changes in relevant policies or legislation.
• Arrange and participate in meetings, conferences, and project team activities where appropriate
• To ensure that positive working relationships are maintained with other departments at the Society
• Undertake other tasks consistent with the role as reasonably required

What we’re looking for …

Essential

• Experience of working in formal or informal education role(s)
• Demonstrable knowledge of the UK education system, ages 5-18
• Science communication experience
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• First Degree in Geoscience, Education, or a related subject
• Line-management experience, preferably including a track record of coaching, mentoring, and professional development
• Project management experience
• Experience of promoting activities and organising events
• Experience in setting and managing budgets

Desirable

• Demonstrable knowledge of the UK higher education sector
• Experience making education initiatives accessible for those with SEND and reducing barriers to participation
• Demonstrable knowledge of international education systems with respect to geoscience
• Experience of developing and delivering training
• Experience of working with external partners to deliver successful outcomes
• Experience of impact assessment and performance tracking
• Outreach and/or public engagement experience

The role may require some travel in the UK, and occasional weekend and evening working. Where required, by prior agreement, this will be compensated through time off in lieu (TOIL).

A bit about us …

The Geological Society is a registered charity and employs just over 60 staff at its offices in London and Bath. Our London office is situated in the beautiful London hotspot of Piccadilly in Burlington House, just next door to The Royal Academy.

As an employee conscious company, we invest in our staff by emphasising training, growth and progression in every role. We firmly believe in creating a positive workplace wellbeing culture and offer a range of benefits to our staff including:

• 25 days basic holiday entitlement, increasing up to 30 days with continued service (pro-rated for part-time staff)
• Option to purchase up to 2 days extra holiday days per year
• Contributary pension scheme with 10% employer contribution
• Access to 24/7 online GP with mental health & wellbeing counselling
• Free premium Headspace account for you and 2 members of friends/family
• Discounts and recognitions scheme
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Season Ticket Loan scheme
• Life Assurance and Income Protection schemes
• Free access to Royal Academy exhibitions
• Free Geological Society Fellow membership for qualified staff

The Society is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that promotes equality, values diversity and maintains a harmonious inclusive environment in which the rights and dignity of all its members visitors and staff are respected. We are an equal opportunities employer and the post-holder will be expected to adhere to and support the Society’s commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion.

How to apply …

To apply for this position, please click the 'Apply' button above to be directed to our website. We require your CV and a cover letter, please ensure that your cover letter highlights your experience in no more than 500 words.

As part of our inclusive recruitment initiative, we have introduced the concept of anonymous recruiting in order to evaluate applicants solely on their skills and experience. With this in mind, we encourage you to:

• Anonymise your application by stating only your initials in your CV (including your file name) and cover letter.
• State your initials only in the subject line when sending your application.
• Ensure that you have included your contact email and number, as well as dates when you will not be available or might have difficulty with the indicative timetable.

Please let us know if you will require any special provisions to be made should you be called for an interview. We regret that unsuccessful candidates will not be contacted.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. The Society is unable to offer work visa sponsorships.

Are you an ambitious fundraising and communications professional ready to take the next step in your career? This is an exciting opportunity to lead, shape and grow fundraising and communications at Bolton Lads & Girls Club, helping us create an even bigger impact for children and young people across Bolton.

As our Head of Fundraising & Communications, you’ll take ownership of developing and delivering a strategy that grows and diversifies our income, strengthens our profile and inspires people and businesses to support our work.

This is a varied, hands-on role where no two days will look quite the same. You’ll lead on income generation, identify new fundraising opportunities, build strong relationships with supporters and partners, and oversee communications that tell the story of BLGC and the difference our work makes.

Working within a small team means you won’t just develop the strategy, you’ll play an active role in bringing it to life. We’re looking for someone who enjoys taking ownership, turning ideas into action and bringing people with them.

You’ll be a confident relationship-builder with experience across fundraising and communications and a strong track record of generating income. You’ll be proactive, results-driven and comfortable balancing strategic thinking with hands-on delivery.

Most importantly, you’ll share our ambition to give children and young people in Bolton the opportunities, support and experiences they need to thrive.

If you’re looking for a role where you can make your mark, develop new ideas and see the direct impact of your work, we’d love to hear from you.

Job Description:

The Head of Youth & Community Services will provide leadership, management and oversight across YMCA Brunel Group's youth and community services, including 10 Youth Clubs (supporting young people aged 10-19 years old, and up to 25 with special educational needs), and 2 Young Carers groups. The role will be responsible for ensuring the effective delivery, quality, performance and development of services, enabling positive outcomes for children, young people and communities, across the Mendip and South Somerset area.

The postholder will lead a team of approximately 33 permanent and relief staff, and line manage Youth Work Team Leaders, ensuring services are delivered safely, effectively and in line with organisational policies, safeguarding requirements and funding obligations.

The postholder will play a key role in shaping local responses to the needs of young people and communities, bringing partners together to influence priorities, develop collaborative solutions and improve outcomes across the Mendip and South Somerset area

The role will enhance the impact, sustainability and quality of youth and community services, strengthen partnership working and support the delivery of YMCA Brunel Group's charitable objectives.

The Candidate:

The successful candidate will be an experienced youth and community services professional with a strong track record of leading teams, developing services and delivering positive outcomes for young people and communities.

You will be a confident leader, capable of supporting and developing Team Leaders while ensuring high standards of service delivery, safeguarding, quality and performance. You will have excellent relationship-building skills, with the ability to work effectively with colleagues, partners and stakeholders across a range of settings.

You will be organised, proactive and resilient, with a strong understanding of the challenges facing young people and communities and a commitment to YMCA Brunel Group's values and mission.

Ideally, you will hold a relevant qualification in youth work, or community development or a related field, although candidates with significant relevant experience will also be considered.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Service leadership and delivery

· Lead the operational delivery, quality and continuous improvement of YMCA Brunel Group's Youth & Community Services, ensuring services are safe, impactful, financially sustainable and responsive to the needs of young people.

· Oversee the planning, development and evaluation of youth and community projects, ensuring consistency of practice, effective use of resources and delivery against agreed objectives and outcomes.

· Identify emerging needs, opportunities and trends affecting young people and communities, using insight and local intelligence to shape service development and ensure provision remains relevant, impactful and sustainable.

· Act as the departmental safeguarding lead, providing advice, oversight and support to Team Leaders and staff.

Young people and community engagement

· Champion participation and co-production, ensuring the voices of young people and communities influence service design, delivery and evaluation

· Support Team Leaders to engage, and create opportunities for young people, volunteers and community members to participate fully in YMCA services and activities.

· Ensure services are inclusive, accessible and focused on enabling individuals and communities to achieve their full potential.

People leadership

· Provide visible and effective leadership across Youth & Community Services, setting clear direction, priorities and expectations that support YMCA Brunel Group's objectives.

· Lead, motivate and develop Team Leaders, fostering a positive, inclusive and high-performing culture that reflects YMCA values and promotes accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement.

· Provide direct line management, supervision and support to Team Leaders, ensuring high standards of performance, safeguarding and professional practice.

· Recruit, induct and develop staff in accordance with organisational policies and procedures, supporting workforce planning, succession planning and professional development.

Partnerships, fundraising and influencing

· Develop and maintain strong relationships with local authorities, schools, parish and town councils, voluntary and community organisations, funders and other key stakeholders, positioning YMCA Brunel Group as a trusted partner within local communities.

· Represent YMCA Brunel Group within strategic partnerships, networks and community forums, championing the needs of young people and communities, influencing local priorities and helping to shape strategies that improve outcomes.

· Bring organisations together to develop collaborative approaches, identifying opportunities for partnership working, shared delivery and coordinated responses that maximise impact for children, young people and communities.

· Lead on income generation and securing funding across Youth & Community Services, increasing resources to sustain and grow in line with the needs of young people

Financial management

· Manage allocated budgets, authorise expenditure within delegated limits and ensure resources are used effectively and responsibly.

· Ensure accurate records, monitoring systems and reporting processes are maintained, producing timely reports for internal and external stakeholders.

· Oversee safeguarding, health and safety, risk management and compliance requirements across the Youth and Community department, ensuring adherence to organisational policies, legislation and funding obligations.

General

· Develop and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues across YMCA Brunel Group.

· Promote equality, diversity, inclusion and wellbeing throughout the organisation

· Comply with all YMCA Brunel Group policies, procedures and legislative requirements.

· Demonstrate YMCA Brunel Group values in all aspects of work.

· Undertake any other duties appropriate to the role as requested by the Director of Charity Operations.

Person Specification

• At least 2 years experience leading youth, community, or related services
• Experience of developing and maintaining partnerships with statutory, voluntary, community and education organisations
• Experience of leading and developing staff, including the ability to motivate and inspire others
• Experience of managing budgets and contributing to income generation
• Strong understanding of the needs and challenges facing young people and communities
• Knowledge of safeguarding legislation, risk management and best practice relating to children, young people or vulnerable adults
• JNC Youth & Community Work qualification or equivalent professional qualification
• Understanding of funding, commissioning and contract delivery within the charity sector

Location: At least 3 days a week based in one of YMCA Brunel offices (Bath, Wells, Frome or Street).

Hours: 37.5 hours per week, including occasional evenings and weekends

Salary: £40,000.00

Closing Date: 11th October 2026

Interviews: 21st October 2026

YMCA Brunel Group is committed to following safer recruitment practices. All candidates will need to provide a full employment history, two references, and undergo an enhanced DBS check. In line with the Asylum & Immigration Act 1996, applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK.

Join us at YMCA Brunel Group and be part of something bigger!

The University of Southampton is a research‑intensive institution and a founding member of the Russell Group. Our aim is to change the world for the better through research, education and knowledge. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we are committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

Within the Office of Development & Alumni Relations (ODAR), we build lifelong relationships with our global alumni and supporters, helping them stay connected to Southampton and make a difference through their time, expertise and philanthropy. If you're excited by the idea of shaping and strengthening these communities, this role is for you.

About the role

This is an opportunity to lead a wide-ranging programme of engagement across our alumni and supporter communities. You will lead and develop a team of four, working across ODAR and the wider University to identify opportunities and deliver impactful programmes.

Your portfolio spans engagement and volunteering that advances University priorities – including student recruitment, graduate employability and philanthropy – while strengthening relationships with our international and high‑profile supporters.

A central part of the role is leading the volunteering strand of our first University‑wide fundraising and engagement campaign, the £100m Campaign for Southampton. You will also contribute to projects supporting Southampton's brand and reputation, and international engagement in key countries such as China and India.

As a member of ODAR's senior team, you will represent alumni and supporter engagement on cross‑University working groups and build relationships with stakeholders across the institution.

This role is offered on a hybrid basis, with a minimum of two days a week at Highfield, plus international travel typically once or twice a year.

About you

You'll bring experience building meaningful relationships with alumni, supporters, volunteers, members or similar stakeholder groups, with a track record of delivering successful engagement programmes – ideally drawing on insight and creativity to reach diverse audiences.

An excellent communicator and relationship‑builder, you can influence and work collaboratively with people at all levels. You combine strong organisational and project‑management skills with sound judgement to turn plans into measurable outcomes. You're also an experienced people manager who enjoys developing others.

A background in higher education, fundraising, advancement, charity, membership or another relationship‑led environment would be valuable, but transferable experience is equally welcome.

About us

ODAR has enjoyed an exciting period of growth as we prepare for the Campaign for Southampton. With backing from University leadership, we are investing in the people and programmes needed to deepen alumni and supporter engagement and deliver greater impact for Southampton.

We're a friendly, hardworking team with a passion for making a difference, looking for colleagues with intellectual curiosity, fresh ideas and the confidence to shape something ambitious.

We welcome applicants with direct experience or transferable skills and are committed to building a diverse, inclusive team where everyone can thrive. 

Apply by uploading your CV and a cover letter of up to two sides of A4, outlining how your skills and experience meet the role's requirements and what attracts you to the opportunity.

We’re looking for an inspiring Head of Community Delivery to join our London-based team. This is a senior leadership role within our Delivery Team, where you’ll play a key part in shaping and delivering AllChild’s place-based programmes, ensuring they create meaningful and lasting impact across your region.

Across the UK, millions of children and young people are facing complex social and emotional challenges. AllChild works within local communities and wider support systems to identify and support children and young people most at risk of poor social, emotional and academic outcomes. Through our two-year Impact Programme, we help build a joined-up network of support around each child and family, working in partnership with schools, local services and community organisations.

For further information, please view the Job Pack.

To apply, please visit our website via the Apply button.

Closing date: 25 September 2026.

We recognise that candidates may use AI tools to support research and check grammar. However, we ask that all supporting statements and application responses reflect your own thoughts and experiences. Over-reliance on AI may limit our ability to assess your individual skills, critical thinking, and personal approach, which are important parts of our selection process.

We are seeking a talented Director of Programme Delivery and Operations (maternity cover), fully committed to our widening participation cause, to join the Senior Leadership Team in a pivotal role for a growing and ambitious charity. 

You will have responsibility for ensuring we are providing high quality programme delivery to young people across our centre network, that are centres are functioning effectively, and that targets are monitored and met. And of course, you will need to have a genuine passion and enthusiasm for working with young people and helping them achieve their ambitions.

The Director of Programme Delivery and Operations is a Senior Leadership Team position within the charity and reports into the Chief Operating Officer. The role is responsible for oversight of all centre programme delivery and performance across our network of 44 local learning centres (and growing).

Contract

This is a fixed-term, maternity cover role until at least end of November 2027. This role can be either full-time or part-time (0.8 FTE) - responsibilities will be adjusted proportionally for part-time candidates.

Start date
January 2027 (or as otherwise agreed)

Working hours
Mon and Thurs: 09:30-18:00
Tues, Weds, Fri: 09:00-17:30
We are a delivery organisation providing frontline educational services for young people. We are an organisation with team members at different stages of their career, including many in their first roles: We are committed to nurturing talent and providing a developmental culture for all. Our team works in-person 4 days per week (or 3 days for a 0.8 FTE staff member)
with 1 day working from home. 

Location

The role would be based at one of our IntoUniversity centres in Birmingham, Bristol, Coventry, Leeds, London, Manchester or Nottingham, with regular travel across the network and to our Head Office in London. 

Salary

£62,500 (Plus additional London contribution of £2,800 for London-based candidates). Pro rata for part-time candidate.

Annual leave

This is the full-time staff entitlement and will be pro-rated for part-time staff.

33 days (inc bank & public holidays)
+ 3 closure days (two in December and one in July)
+ additional length of service entitlement
(one day per year of service, up to 5 days)
 

Staff benefits

• Employer pension contributions of 6% (and up to 8% after two years)
• Year round ‘early finish’ Fridays at 4.30pm 
• Employee Assistance Programme including access to medical and legal support 
• Life Assurance scheme with AIG including SmartHealth service with access to 24/7 online GP appointments
• Interest-free new starter loans of up to £1,000 
• Cycle to Work Scheme and Travelcard Loan Scheme
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental and adoption pay and sick pay allowances
• Staff in FOCUS – rewards, competitions and prizes across the year

Application deadline - 9am Monday 28th September 2026.

Interview Day (in-person at our Head Office in London) - Wednesday 7th October. Please ensure that you are available on this date.

Workforce Development Coordinator

WorldSkills UK is looking for an organised and proactive Workforce Development Coordinator to join our Workforce Development Team.

At WorldSkills UK, we have big ambitions to help young people, the education system and the economy. We work across the UK to raise standards in technical education and apprenticeships, champion future skills and help more young people from all backgrounds succeed in work and life.

As Workforce Development Coordinator, you will play an important role in supporting the successful delivery of our workforce development programmes. Working with colleagues, participants, delivery partners and other stakeholders, you will help ensure our programmes are well organised, our systems and information are accurate, and participants receive a professional and positive experience.

The role is varied and will include:

• coordinating programme activity, meetings, events and workshops;
• maintaining programme documentation, schedules, records and systems;
• coordinating communications with participants and internal and external stakeholders;
• collecting, validating and collating data and supporting programme reporting;
• coordinating participant registration, onboarding and ongoing support;
• working with suppliers, venues, contractors and delivery partners; and
• helping to improve systems, processes and ways of working.

We are looking for someone who is highly organised, has excellent attention to detail and can confidently coordinate multiple activities, priorities and deadlines. You will need strong administrative and communication skills, the ability to build effective working relationships with a range of people, and the confidence to use your initiative while working collaboratively as part of a team.

Salary: £28,000
Contract: Permanent, full time (35 hours per week)
Location: London, with flexible hybrid working. The postholder is expected to attend the office at least once or twice a week.

How to apply

Please download and read the application pack attached before applying.

WorldSkills UK uses a blind recruitment approach. To apply, please submit the following:

1. an anonymised CV in Word format;
2. a supporting statement in Word format outlining your suitability for the role and addressing the role description and person specification; and
3. a separate document containing your name, email address, telephone number and confirmation of your right to work in the UK.

Closing date: 23:59 on Sunday 4 October 2026.

Late or incomplete applications, or applications that do not follow the application requirements, may not be considered.

About School of Hard Knocks

School of Hard Knocks (SOHK) is one of the UK’s leading education charities, working in 29 secondary schools across England, Scotland, and Wales. Using rugby as a key delivery tool, we support young people who are struggling to engage in early secondary education - often because of anxiety, low confidence, disrupted home lives, or behavioural challenges rooted in trauma. For many of the children we support, life has already brought more hardship than most adults experience in a lifetime. Our purpose is clear: to help young people facing complex challenges break the cycle and move towards a safer, stronger, more hopeful future.

The SOHK Schools Programme is a two-year intervention working with cohorts of around 20 pupils from Year 7 through to Year 9. Pupils are selected by the school and are typically among the hardest to reach young people. Each week, we deliver half a day of rugby training and classroom sessions built around our 3Cs framework, covering topics such as growth mindset, goal setting, and decision-making, alongside monthly one-to-one sessions with every pupil. The programme’s impact is evaluated by SOHK staff, teachers, parents, and the pupils themselves.

90% of our participants report feeling more confident and more engaged with school after taking part, with long-term effects on attendance, attainment, and life outcomes. Find out more about our Schools Programme.

Since 2023, SOHK has been proud to partner with Impetus, a charity that invests in and supports organisations helping young people from disadvantaged backgrounds succeed. This partnership combines investment with strategic and organisational development support, helping to strengthen our impact and set SOHK up for sustainable growth.

We are proud to be delivering long-term programmes that meaningfully reach hundreds of young people each year - but the societal need is vast. Our ambitious four-year strategic plan targets growth, aiming to bring our impactful programme to hundreds more young people each year.

“Despite the usual challenges that every education or sport for development charity faces, School of Hard Knocks really is unique. It is not so much what we deliver at a programme level (which is of course brilliant) but who we are as a team. If you are a values-led leader and love the idea of ‘team’, then School of Hard Knocks is the place for you.”

- Ken Cowen, Founder and outgoing CEO

The Role

The CEO is the public face and leader of SOHK, responsible for the overall strategic direction, vision, and management of the charity - ensuring SOHK meets its mission and strategic objectives while maintaining strong relationships with Trustees, staff, supporters, and the wider SOHK community. We’re looking for a mission-driven charity leader and effective fundraiser, capable of building a sustainable growth model.

Strategy and Direction

● Be the face and voice of the charity - its principal ambassador

● Lead the development and periodic review of SOHK’s strategy with the Trustees and Senior Management Team

● Translate the 2026-30 strategy into organisational priorities, plans, and goals

● Ensure safeguarding, wellbeing, and the lived experience of young people remain central to every decision and growth plan

Programme Delivery, Quality and Impact

● Hold a high bar for programme quality and outcomes for young people

● Line-manage and support the Director of Programmes, working with delivery teams and partners to build a world-class, evidence-based intervention

● Ensure SOHK can evidence the impact of its programmes, with insights feeding back into constant improvement

Income Generation, Fundraising and External Relations

● Lead income generation across trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, individual giving, and challenges and events

● Line-manage and support the Head of Fundraising in executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy

● Hold senior relationships with funders and partners, building SOHK’s brand, reputation, and profile

Leading People, Culture and Operations

● Build and lead a high-performing Senior Management Team

● Foster a positive, inclusive, high-performing culture aligned with SOHK’s values

● Line-manage and support the Director of Finance & Operations, ensuring operational excellence

Governance and the Board

● Act as the primary link between the organisation and the Trustees

● Attend all Trustee meetings (held quarterly) and provide timely, accurate reporting

● Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and Charity Commission requirements

About You

Essential

● Proven senior leadership experience in the charity, education, youth, or social impact sector - whether as CEO or as part of an executive team - including working directly with a Board of Trustees

● Demonstrated success in building or significantly growing an organisation, programme, or initiative

● A collaborative and values-led leadership style, with the ability to inspire trust, hold people to account, and build high-performing teams

● Strong track record of income generation, including securing significant funding from trusts, foundations, corporates, or major donors

● Experience of financial oversight, budgeting, and organisational planning at a senior level

● Strategic thinker, able to translate vision into clear plans and delivery

● Strong relationship-builder and communicator, confident with a wide range of stakeholders

Desirable

● Previous charity CEO experience - a bonus, but not essential; we know brilliant candidates come from a wide range of backgrounds

● Direct classroom, youth work, or education leadership experience

● Knowledge of the UK education system and youth policy landscape

● Experience of scaling a multi-site delivery organisation and working with local authorities

Personal Attributes

● Deep commitment to improving outcomes for young people, especially those facing disadvantage

● Resilient and persistent, able to work under pressure and navigate setbacks

● Collaborative, open, and reflective leader who seeks feedback and learns from it

Terms of Appointment

Contract type

Full-time, permanent

Location

Greater London, with offices in Edinburgh & Cardiff

Salary

£85,000 – £90,000 per year + £5,000 PRP

Reports to

Chair of the Board of Trustees

Direct reports

Director of Programmes; Head of Fundraising; Director of Finance & Operations

Travel

Regular UK travel, primarily to Edinburgh and Cardiff. Occasional evenings for stakeholder engagement and fundraising events

Trustee meetings

Quarterly, in London, in the evening, plus ad hoc subcommittees