Functional Skills Lead (Justice)

Trigon Recruitment Ltd; Rugby; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a Functional Skills Lead to oversee curriculum delivery and quality assurance in a prison education setting. The role involves managing Functional Skills programs, leading quality improvement initiatives, and fostering strong staff leadership. The ideal candidate will have a Level 5 Teaching Qualification, significant teaching experience, and a proven track record in curriculum management. This permanent position is based at HMP Onley in the UK, offering a competitive salary starting from £35,000.

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing curriculum development, quality systems, and staff performance.
• Significant teaching experience required.
• Clear understanding of Ofsted Education Inspection Framework (EIF).

Responsibilities

• Support the Education Manager in managing curriculum delivery and quality assurance.
• Lead on quality improvement initiatives.
• Manage and supervise teaching and support staff.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Curriculum development

Teaching experience

Education

Level 5 Teaching Qualification

Level 3 English and Maths

Job description

Job Title: Functional Skills Lead (Justice)

Location: HMP Onley

Salary: From 35,000

Contract: Permanent

Role Overview

We are recruiting an experienced Assistant Manager (Functional Skills Lead) to support the Education Manager in overseeing curriculum delivery and quality assurance within a prison education setting. This role involves managing Functional Skills, Personal & Social Development, and work-based programmes, ensuring high standards and compliance with Ofsted and Ministry of Justice requirements.

You will lead on quality improvement, coach and support tutors, and drive innovation to meet challenging performance targets. This is a leadership role requiring strong management skills, curriculum development experience, and a commitment to improving learner outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

Curriculum & Quality Management

Support the Education Manager in managing curriculum delivery and quality assurance.

Lead on quality improvement initiatives, including lesson observations, deep dives, and learning walks.

Develop and promote a standardised curriculum aligned to learner and employer needs.

Monitor and coordinate IQA/EQA schedules and support teams with compliance.

Prepare annual self‑assessment reports, quality improvement plans, and contribute to budget planning.

Staff Leadership & Development

Manage and supervise teaching and support staff using HR strategies to maximise learner success.

Induct new staff and provide mentoring and coaching to improve teaching practice.

Coordinate and deliver local CPD based on quality trends and observations.

Set and monitor staff targets to ensure contractual obligations are met and exceeded.

Operational & Partnership Responsibilities

Maintain positive internal and external partnerships for the benefit of learners.

Ensure compliance with safeguarding, equality, health and safety, and prison security requirements.

Deputise for the Education Manager when required and manage day‑to‑day operations.

Deliver teaching sessions as needed.

Essential Criteria

• Level 5 Teaching Qualification.
• Significant teaching experience.
• Proven experience managing curriculum development, quality systems, and staff performance.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to influence and motivate.
• Level 3 English and Maths.
• Driving licence and access to transport.
• Clear understanding of Ofsted Education Inspection Framework (EIF).

Desirable Criteria

• Level 4 Award in Internal Quality Assurance (or willingness to work towards).
• Level 5 Operations or Departmental Manager Qualification.
• Evidence of continuous professional development.
• Experience in secure environments and commitment to reducing re‑offending through education.