Deputy Head of Pastoral and Operations

Randstad Education; Ely; On-site; GBP 51,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational staffing agency is looking for an experienced Deputy Head of Pastoral and Operations to lead safeguarding and daily operations in an alternative education setting in Ely. This senior position requires significant experience in child protection and operational management. The role offers excellent work-life balance, professional growth opportunities, and wellbeing support, making a real difference in students' lives.

Benefits

Excellent Work-Life Balance

Professional Growth Opportunities

Wellbeing Support

Supportive Environment

Work Laptop or MacBook provided

Qualifications

• Significant experience in safeguarding roles and child protection.
• Proven experience managing teams in a multi-agency setting.
• Completion of Child Protection Training.

Responsibilities

• Act as the DSL, managing safeguarding cases.
• Design and deliver comprehensive safeguarding training.
• Oversee daily operational logistics for effective learning.

Skills

Safeguarding Leadership

Training & Compliance

Operational Management

Pastoral Support

Communication skills

Integrity

Education

Degree in education/social work, QTS, or equivalent experience

Job description

Deputy Head of Pastoral and Operations

£51,773 to £57,165 per annum

Fordham, Ely, Cambridge

Are you an experienced senior leader with a proven track record as a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) ready to take on a high-impact role?

Do you possess in-depth knowledge of safeguarding legislation and the strong leadership skills required to manage daily operations and pastoral care in an alternative education setting?

Ready to join a supportive provision near Ely, where your expertise will be pivotal in ensuring every student feels safe, happy, and supported to achieve their potential?

If you are a dedicated professional committed to child protection and operational excellence, we strongly encourage you to apply.

The Role: Leading Safeguarding and Daily Operations

This is a vital senior leadership position where you will be responsible for both Pastoral Care and Operations, with the critical duty of acting as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). You will be instrumental in maintaining a safe, compliant, and nurturing environment for students who thrive in small-group alternative education.

Key Areas of Responsibility:

• Safeguarding Leadership: Act as the DSL, managing safeguarding cases, collaborating with external agencies (e.g., social services, police), and ensuring rigorous adherence to all legal requirements and best practices.
• Training & Compliance: Design and deliver comprehensive safeguarding training, monitor internal processes, and ensure meticulous record-keeping during and after incidents.
• Operational Management: Oversee daily operational logistics, including timetabling and staff deployment, to ensure a smooth and effective learning environment.
• Pastoral Support: Assist staff with behaviour management and student mentoring, working alongside the senior leadership team on policy development and strategic planning.

About You: The Expert Leader and Child Protection Specialist

• Expert Knowledge: Significant experience in safeguarding roles and child protection, with in-depth knowledge of relevant legislation and best practices.
• Leadership & Management: Strong leadership skills, proven experience managing teams, and the ability to work effectively in a multi-agency setting.
• Qualifications: Relevant qualifications (e.g., degree in education/social work, QTS, or equivalent experience) and completion of Child Protection Training.
• Integrity & Communication: High integrity to handle sensitive information professionally, coupled with excellent communication, organisational, and time-management skills.
• Compliance: Willing to submit an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Check (DBS) and champion the welfare of all young people.

What We Offer: Investing in Your Dedication

• Excellent Work-Life Balance: Term time only contract (39 weeks, including 5 inset days).
• Professional Growth: Unlimited access to an award‑winning CPD platform, training grants for advanced qualifications (NPQ, NASENCO), and accredited support through QTLS.
• Wellbeing Support: Health Assured EAP programme (24/7 confidential helpline), Wellbeing Leave, and the Blue Light Card.
• Supportive Environment: Small class groups, fully funded enhanced DBS, Free onsite parking, and a generous company pension.
• Practical Perks: Work Laptop or MacBook provided, and Enhanced Paternity/Maternity leave.

How to Apply

If you are a dedicated and supportive individual ready to make a difference in a school setting, please apply immediately with your CV or contact Neeraj at [e-mail] for more information.