Head of Education, Skills and Work
| Posting date: | 16 January 2026 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £54,627.30 per year |
| Additional salary information: | Competitive |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 14 February 2026 |
| Location: | Manchester, M27 8FB |
| Company: | Sodexo Ltd |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | SDX/TP/1956626/152831 |
Summary
Head of Function Complex: Education, Skills and Work
Location: HMP Forest Bank
Salary:£54,627.30
We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Head of Function Education, Skills and Work at HMP Forest Bankto lead and develop all education, skills and work activity within the prison.
The postholder will set the strategic direction for Education, Skills and Work, ensuring a coherent, purposeful offer aligned to the Ofsted Education Inspection Framework (EIF) and focused on maximising prisoners, opportunities for employment, education and training on release. As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will contribute to the establishment’s Business Plan and work closely with other Heads of Function to reduce reoffending and support effective resettlement.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the strategy and delivery of Education, Skills and Work across the establishment.
- Ensure high-quality learning and teaching in line with HMPPS/Sodexo vision and national frameworks.
- Oversee education, prison industries, employment on release, neurodiversity, workshops and related activities.
- Embed the Ofsted EIF and lead on inspections, audits and action plans.
- Develop strong partnerships with employers, education providers and resettlement services.
- Promote a strong culture of employment and improve post-release outcomes.
- Line manage and develop staff within the function.
Essential Requirements
- Proven experience of leading and managing staff.
- Strong organisational, communication and influencing skills.
- Ability to work to targets, deadlines and on own initiative.
- High levels of integrity and professionalism.
- PGCE, Cert Ed or Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training.
Desirable
- Experience in a prison or secure environment.
- Senior or middle leadership experience in education.
- Strong knowledge of Ofsted/Estyn EIF and inspection processes.
- Experience of curriculum development and quality improvement.
Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today!
About The Company
At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better every day for everyone to build a better life for all.As the global leader in services that improve the Quality of Life, we operate in 55 countries, serving over 100 million consumers each day through our unique combination of On-Site Food and FM Services, Benefits & Rewards Services and Personal & Home Services. We’re all about building a workplace for the future, we believe in equal opportunities, and we celebrate diversity.We’re an inclusive workplace, where everyone is welcome, everyone can be natural and be the best versions of themselves.We recognise that we’re on a journey with regards to diversity and inclusion and would therefore welcome applications for candidates from underrepresented backgrounds. We’re a Disability Confident Leader employer.We’re committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations.We run a Disability Confident interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job.