Alternative Provision Operational Lead

CRA GROUP RECRUITMENT AND PAYROLL LTD; Swindon; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority in Swindon is seeking an experienced Alternative Provision Operational Lead (Interim) for a 5-6 month contract. Responsibilities include overseeing the design and delivery of Alternative Provision workstreams and ensuring compliance with reform standards. The ideal candidate has over 5 years in project management within education services. This full-time role offers a 35-hour work week and requires enhanced DBS clearance.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading Alternative Provision SEND or Education Service transformation projects.
• Strong understanding of DfE SEND and Alternative Provision reforms and related statutory frameworks.
• Minimum of 5 years relevant work history and professional references.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate design, development and implementation of Alternative Provision projects and services.
• Collaborate with key partners to ensure effective delivery.
• Monitor performance and evaluate outcomes.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Data analysis

Leadership

Organisational abilities

Job description

Overview

5‑6 month contract with a Local Authority. Swindon Borough Council is seeking an experienced Alternative Provision Operational Lead (Interim) to oversee the design, development and delivery of a range of Alternative Provision (AP) workstreams. This temporary role runs for 121 days starting on 1 December 2025 based at Civic Campus, Euclid Street, Swindon.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate design, development and implementation of Alternative Provision projects and services.
• Collaborate with Education Services, Children’s Services and other key partners to ensure effective delivery and continuous improvement.
• Ensure all workstreams meet statutory requirements and align with DfE reforms and local priorities.
• Monitor performance, evaluate outcomes and provide regular progress reports to senior management.
• Manage project resources efficiently to keep services cost‑effective and high‑quality.
• Provide leadership and professional expertise across education and inclusion services, ensuring consistency and best practice.

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven experience leading Alternative Provision SEND or Education Service transformation projects.
• Strong understanding of DfE SEND and Alternative Provision reforms and related statutory frameworks.
• Excellent project management and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Experience managing cross‑functional teams and multi‑agency partnerships.
• Ability to analyse data and translate insights into service improvements.
• Strong communication, leadership and organisational abilities.
• Enhanced DBS clearance and eligibility to work in the UK.
• Minimum of 5 years relevant work history and professional references.

Application Details

Closing date: 21 November 2025.

Full‑time role: 35 hours per week.

Documents required: CV, Enhanced DBS, 5‑year references, Confidentiality Agreement (upon offer).