Head of Adult & Community Learning

Sandwell College; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading college in Birmingham seeks a Head of Adult & Community Learning to spearhead the development of a new Skills Campus. This pivotal leadership role involves shaping curriculum, driving engagement, and ensuring high standards of learning for diverse adult learners. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership skills and a proven track record in adult education, ready to inspire and transform lives through skills development.

Benefits

Top-Tier Salaries

Unbeatable Time Off

Fast-Track Your Career

Drive Electric for Less

Cycle to Work Scheme

Exclusive Discounts on Onsite Services

Fitness Perks

Generous Pension Contributions

Retail & Travel Discounts

Free Will Writing

Free Flu Vaccine

Wellbeing Support

We Celebrate You!

Qualifications

• Proven teaching experience with measurable impact.
• Significant leadership and management experience in Adult Learning.
• Track record of successful project delivery.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of the new Skills Campus.
• Drive engagement with employers and local communities.
• Champion recruitment of adult learners.

Skills

Inspirational leadership

Excellent communication

Interpersonal abilities

Data analysis

Knowledge of local employment needs

Education

Degree and/or relevant professional qualification

Certificate in Education, Level 5 Teaching, or Management qualification

Job description

Job Title: Head of Adult & Community Learning

Location: West Bromwich

Salary: £60k - £65k per annum DOE

Job type: Full time, permanent

Are you driven by a passion for transforming lives through skills development? Can you inspire and engage communities with a pioneering new learning campus? This is your opportunity to be at the forefront of an exciting new chapter for Sandwell College.

This is a pivotal leadership role, spearheading the development of our brand-new Skills Campus in Cradley Heath, opening in early 2026. We are seeking an inspirational and strategic leader to drive engagement, shape provision, and ensure the highest standards of learning and support for a diverse community of adult learners and some young people. From entry-level training to higher skills development, this centre will expand our reach, amplify our impact, and further solidify our reputation for excellence.

This role also provides a rare opportunity to prepare for Senior Leadership and work across a large group of colleges.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of the new Skills Campus, shaping curriculum and provision to support adult learners, career progression, and workforce development.
• Drive engagement with employers, local communities, voluntary organisations, and government bodies to maximise opportunities for learners.
• Champion recruitment of adult learners and some young learners, developing tailored programmes including Sector Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) and pathways to apprenticeships.
• Promote the College's mission, enhancing its reputation as a key skills provider through stakeholder collaboration, marketing, and outreach initiatives.
• Ensure operational excellence, overseeing resources, health & safety, staffing, and learner support services.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

The ideal candidate will bring a proven track record in delivering innovative and impactful adult and community provision, inspiring cross functional teams, and driving meaningful engagement with a wide range of stakeholders. With exceptional interpersonal skills and a forward-thinking mind-set, the postholder will plan, implement and monitor the operational Campus plans in support of the wider Colleges' brand-new strategic direction.

This role requires a visionary leader with the ability to shape a transformative learning environment, fostering strong partnerships and driving impactful change in the community.

Essential Criteria:

Qualifications:

• Degree and/or relevant professional qualification.
• Certificate in Education, Level 5 Teaching, or Management qualification.

Experience:

• Proven teaching experience with measurable impact.
• Significant leadership and management experience in Adult Learning and High-Level Skills development.
• Track record of successful project delivery.
• Strong background in employer and stakeholder engagement.

Skills & Abilities:

• Inspirational leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Strong understanding of career and curriculum pathways.
• Ability to analyse and utilise data effectively.
• Knowledge of local employment and skills needs.
• Desirable Criteria:
• Experience in developing short courses and commercial activities.

Benefits

• Top-Tier Salaries - We offer sector-leading pay with some of the most competitive salaries around
• Unbeatable Time Off - Enjoy 35-50 days of annual leave, plus 8 bank holidays AND extra time off at Christmas - because work-life balance is essential
• Fast-Track Your Career - Take advantage of dedicated development days, career pathways, and talent schemes designed to help you grow and succeed
• Drive Electric for Less - Our Electric Car Scheme (via salary sacrifice) helps you go green while saving money
• Cycle to Work Scheme - A healthier, greener, and more cost-effective way to commute
• Exclusive Discounts on Onsite Services - Save on Bliss Hair & Beauty Salon, dog grooming, car health checks, and more
• Fitness Perks - Enjoy our college gym facilities or discounted rates at local gyms to keep you feeling your best
• Generous Pension Contributions - We invest in your future with 23.68% employer contribution for teaching roles and 21.5% for non-teaching roles
• Retail & Travel Discounts - Unlock exclusive savings on high street brands, local transport, cross-country travel. UNIDAYS, Student Beans and Blue Light Discount
• Free Will Writing - We've got your back with professional support for your future planning
• Free Flu Vaccine - Stay healthy and protected at no cost to you
• Wellbeing Support - Access confidential counselling services and wellness platforms to support your mental and emotional health
• We Celebrate You! - We recognise and appreciate your hard work with awards, recognition events, and celebration days throughout the year

Please click the APPLY button to submit your CV.

Candidates with experience or relevant job titles of Learning and Development Manager, Training Program Manager, Employee Development Manager, Professional Development Manager, and Instructional Design Manager may also be considered