Strategic Head of School Admissions & Access

Civic Recruitment Limited; Camden; On-site; AUD 113,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Civic Recruitment Limited is seeking a Head of Schools Admissions Service for a fixed-term contract with a local authority in London. The role requires strategic leadership of the Schools Admissions Team to deliver a high-quality, legally compliant admissions service and to plan school places.

You will oversee statutory admissions processes, appeals, and policy development, while advising senior leaders and external stakeholders. 36 hours/week; deadline 7 October 2026.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in leading a Schools Admissions Service within a Local Authority.
• Previous experience at a Head of Service, Service Manager, or equivalent senior leadership level.
• Extensive knowledge of the School Admissions Code, School Admission Appeals Code, and relevant education legislation.
• Degree-level qualification or equivalent experience.
• Evidence of continuing professional development.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Schools Admissions Service to ensure the effective delivery of all statutory admissions functions.
• Develop, implement, and review admissions policies in accordance with current legislation, the School Admissions Code, and Department for Education guidance.
• Oversee the annual admissions cycle, coordinating primary and secondary school admissions rounds.
• Provide strategic advice and guidance to senior leadership, elected members, schools, and external stakeholders on admissions matters.
• Manage school admission appeals, in-year admissions, fair access protocols, and waiting lists.
• Lead on school place planning and sufficiency, collaborating closely with education planning and commissioning teams.

Skills

Leadership experience

Strategic leadership

People management

Education

Degree-level qualification

Professional qualification in Education/Public Administration/Management

Job description

Civic Recruitment Limited is seeking a Head of Schools Admissions Service for a fixed-term contract with a local authority in London. The role requires strategic leadership of the Schools Admissions Team to deliver a high-quality, legally compliant admissions service and to plan school places.

You will oversee statutory admissions processes, appeals, and policy development, while advising senior leaders and external stakeholders. 36 hours/week; deadline 7 October 2026.