Head of Quality and Curriculum
| Posting date: | 05 December 2025 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £40,000 to £44,000 per year |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 04 January 2026 |
| Location: | Staffordshire, West Midlands |
| Remote working: | Hybrid - work remotely up to 3 days per week |
| Company: | Acorn Training LTD |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | Hybrid days to be discussed |
Summary
We reserve the right to close this advertisement at any time if we receive suitable applications for the role.
To lead and coordinate quality assurance, curriculum development, and continuous improvement strategies across Apprenticeship, Adult Learning, and devolved skills contracts. The role ensures compliance with regulatory frameworks, drives excellence in teaching, learning and assessment, and supports organisational growth in line with the Strategic Plan.
Key Responsibilities and Key Performance Indicators
- Support directors to coordinate the completion of a comprehensive Self-assessment Report (SAR) and Quality Improvement Plan (QIP)
- Provide nominee support during an Ofsted inspection
- Monitor external practice and guidance from sources such as the Ofsted Education Inspection Framework, DfE Apprenticeship Accountability Framework, AELP, ERSA, IEP, and QAR
- Undertake work scrutiny audits in line with an audit plan that contributes towards ISO9001
- Analyse data and trends across Apprenticeship, Adult Learning
- Report to EMT monthly on the quality of teaching, learning and assessment
- Lead information learning technology (ILT) initiatives
- Work collaboratively with HR to develop CPD and staff wellbeing plans that drive forward Talent Management, Staff Retention and Staff Wellbeing
- Line manage the Lead IQA to coordinate all EQA activity, Head of Data Analytics & Reporting and Curriculum Development & Quality lead
Key Performance Indicators
- Comprehensive Self-Assessment Report and Quality Improvement Plan completed and approved by agreed deadlines
- Maintain full compliance with Ofsted Education Inspection Framework and DfE Apprenticeship Accountability Framework
- Successful coordination and representation during Ofsted inspections, with positive feedback on preparedness and compliance
- Delivery of monthly quality and performance reports to EMT on schedule
- Reports include clear analysis and improvement actions, with progress tracked
- Positive trends in KPIs related to regulatory requirements
- Successful integration of learner feedback into curriculum developments, evidenced through programme reviews and updates
- Individual action plans in place for 100% of staff identified as requiring intensive support
- Provide effective monthly one-to-one sessions for all direct reports, ensuring clear objectives, feedback, and development planning
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Qualifications and specific training
- Minimum Level 5 teaching learning and assessment qualification, such as Cert Ed, DTLLS or Diploma in Education and Training (essential)
- Level 5 or above subject specialism (essential)
- Level 3 CAVA and Level 4 IQA or equivalent (essential)
- GCSE (or equivalent) in English Language and Mathematics (essential)
- Level 2 IT Qualification (essential)
- Full Driving Licence (essential)
- Level 5 learning and development or leadership and management qualification (desirable)
- Master of Education (MEd) or similar (desirable)
- First Aid at Work Certificate (desirable)
- IOSH Health and Safety Qualification (desirable)
Experience
- Proven experience in educational leadership roles, preferably in curriculum design, instructional development, or a quality assurance capacity. (essential)
- Proven experience in managing curriculum development teams, ensuring quality standards, and overseeing programme evaluation. (essential)
- Proven track record of successful curriculum development and implementation that aligns with industry demands and learning outcomes. (essential)
- Proven experience of supporting throughout an Ofsted inspection (desirable)
Knowledge
- Demonstrate a strong understanding of the FE and training sector. (essential)
- In-depth understanding of educational theories, pedagogical principles, and curriculum development methodologies (essential)
- Knowledge of accreditation standards, regulatory requirements, and quality assurance processes in the adult education sector (essential)
- Understanding of assessment strategies and methodologies (essential)
- Familiarity with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in curriculum design and delivery (desirable)
Skills
- Ability to lead and inspire curriculum development teams, set clear goals, and foster a culture of continuous improvement (essential)
- Thoroughness in ensuring curriculum alignment with learning outcomes, quality standards, and regulatory requirements (essential)
- Strong ability to collaborate with diverse teams, departments, and external partners (essential)
- Adaptable to changes in the education landscape, industry demands, and regulatory guidelines (essential)
- Proficient in using technology and software tools for curriculum design (desirable)
We welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, disability, marital or parental status, ethnic or social origin, religion, belief, or sexual orientation. In addition, during the various stages of recruitment, reasonable adjustments can be taken to ensure equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities or special needs.
As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy
Please get in contact with recruitment@acorntraining.co.uk to discuss alternative options you may require, or alternative application methods
To lead and coordinate quality assurance, curriculum development, and continuous improvement strategies across Apprenticeship, Adult Learning, and devolved skills contracts. The role ensures compliance with regulatory frameworks, drives excellence in teaching, learning and assessment, and supports organisational growth in line with the Strategic Plan.
Key Responsibilities and Key Performance Indicators
- Support directors to coordinate the completion of a comprehensive Self-assessment Report (SAR) and Quality Improvement Plan (QIP)
- Provide nominee support during an Ofsted inspection
- Monitor external practice and guidance from sources such as the Ofsted Education Inspection Framework, DfE Apprenticeship Accountability Framework, AELP, ERSA, IEP, and QAR
- Undertake work scrutiny audits in line with an audit plan that contributes towards ISO9001
- Analyse data and trends across Apprenticeship, Adult Learning
- Report to EMT monthly on the quality of teaching, learning and assessment
- Lead information learning technology (ILT) initiatives
- Work collaboratively with HR to develop CPD and staff wellbeing plans that drive forward Talent Management, Staff Retention and Staff Wellbeing
- Line manage the Lead IQA to coordinate all EQA activity, Head of Data Analytics & Reporting and Curriculum Development & Quality lead
Key Performance Indicators
- Comprehensive Self-Assessment Report and Quality Improvement Plan completed and approved by agreed deadlines
- Maintain full compliance with Ofsted Education Inspection Framework and DfE Apprenticeship Accountability Framework
- Successful coordination and representation during Ofsted inspections, with positive feedback on preparedness and compliance
- Delivery of monthly quality and performance reports to EMT on schedule
- Reports include clear analysis and improvement actions, with progress tracked
- Positive trends in KPIs related to regulatory requirements
- Successful integration of learner feedback into curriculum developments, evidenced through programme reviews and updates
- Individual action plans in place for 100% of staff identified as requiring intensive support
- Provide effective monthly one-to-one sessions for all direct reports, ensuring clear objectives, feedback, and development planning
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Qualifications and specific training
- Minimum Level 5 teaching learning and assessment qualification, such as Cert Ed, DTLLS or Diploma in Education and Training (essential)
- Level 5 or above subject specialism (essential)
- Level 3 CAVA and Level 4 IQA or equivalent (essential)
- GCSE (or equivalent) in English Language and Mathematics (essential)
- Level 2 IT Qualification (essential)
- Full Driving Licence (essential)
- Level 5 learning and development or leadership and management qualification (desirable)
- Master of Education (MEd) or similar (desirable)
- First Aid at Work Certificate (desirable)
- IOSH Health and Safety Qualification (desirable)
Experience
- Proven experience in educational leadership roles, preferably in curriculum design, instructional development, or a quality assurance capacity. (essential)
- Proven experience in managing curriculum development teams, ensuring quality standards, and overseeing programme evaluation. (essential)
- Proven track record of successful curriculum development and implementation that aligns with industry demands and learning outcomes. (essential)
- Proven experience of supporting throughout an Ofsted inspection (desirable)
Knowledge
- Demonstrate a strong understanding of the FE and training sector. (essential)
- In-depth understanding of educational theories, pedagogical principles, and curriculum development methodologies (essential)
- Knowledge of accreditation standards, regulatory requirements, and quality assurance processes in the adult education sector (essential)
- Understanding of assessment strategies and methodologies (essential)
- Familiarity with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in curriculum design and delivery (desirable)
Skills
- Ability to lead and inspire curriculum development teams, set clear goals, and foster a culture of continuous improvement (essential)
- Thoroughness in ensuring curriculum alignment with learning outcomes, quality standards, and regulatory requirements (essential)
- Strong ability to collaborate with diverse teams, departments, and external partners (essential)
- Adaptable to changes in the education landscape, industry demands, and regulatory guidelines (essential)
- Proficient in using technology and software tools for curriculum design (desirable)
We welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, disability, marital or parental status, ethnic or social origin, religion, belief, or sexual orientation. In addition, during the various stages of recruitment, reasonable adjustments can be taken to ensure equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities or special needs.
As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy
Please get in contact with recruitment@acorntraining.co.uk to discuss alternative options you may require, or alternative application methods