Head of Faculty - Access to Learning

Abingdon and Witney College; Witney; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Witney is seeking an experienced Head of Access to Learning to provide strategic leadership for its faculty. The role involves enhancing curriculum and supporting disadvantaged learners. You must have a strong background in FE management and a passion for inclusivity. This permanent position offers a salary of £60,992-£67,310 per annum and a chance to make a substantial impact in education.

Qualifications

• Strong leadership with a proven track record in FE management.
• Significant experience in teaching within post-16 education.
• Experience working with disadvantaged groups.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and leadership for the faculty.
• Ensure high-quality teaching and learning.
• Lead curriculum development.
• Build relationships with employers.

Skills

Leadership in Further Education Management

Teaching experience in post-16 education

Experience with NEET and SEND groups

Ability to develop staff

Commitment to inclusivity

Job description

Head of Access to Learning

Salary: £60,992-£67,310 per annum (depending on experience)

Hours per week: 37

Weeks per annum: 52

Working pattern: M7.5, T7.5, W7.5, T7.5, F7

Location: Witney Campus

Contract type: Permanent

Abingdon and Witney College, an award-winning education and skills provider in Oxfordshire, is seeking a dynamic Head of Department for our Access to Learning faculty. Our offering includes vocational qualifications, apprenticeships, and higher education. We have experienced significant growth, with a 13% increase in income and accolades such as Hays Employer of the Year, Pearson BTEC College of the Year, and a Beacon Award. We pride ourselves on state-of-the-art facilities and an inclusive, supportive culture that helps everyone achieve more than they thought possible.

About the Role

As Head of Access to Learning, you will provide strategic leadership and direction for our specialist provision, which supports young people who have previously experienced barriers to education. You will oversee the Fast Forward, Gateway, and Pathways curriculum areas – programmes designed for learners who are not yet ready for vocational study, those returning to education after a significant break, and those with substantial learning needs developing essential life and employability skills.

• Drive high-quality teaching, learning, and assessment.
• Promote pedagogical innovation across the curriculum.
• Support the professional growth and development of the staff team.
• Enhance the curriculum through collaboration with employers and internal partners.
• Ensure provision meets emerging skills needs across Oxfordshire and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and leadership for the faculty.
• Ensure high-quality teaching and learning.
• Lead pedagogical innovation and curriculum development.
• Build strong relationships with employers and internal partners.

Essential Experience

• Strong leader and role model with a proven track record in FE management and team leadership.
• Significant experience in teaching and leadership within post-16 education.
• Experience working with NEET young people, those with SEND and EHCPs, and other disadvantaged groups.
• Ability to develop staff, provide clear direction, and foster a positive culture.
• Passion for excellence and inclusivity.
• Commitment to achieving the best outcomes for students.

If you're ready to lead our Access to Learning faculty to new heights, we'd love to hear from you. Apply now to join our dedicated team!

*Abingdon and Witney College reserve the right to close all applications before posted closing date

Abingdon and Witney College values diversity and encourages applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to safeguarding and expect all our employees and volunteers to share this commitment. We are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and all appointments are subject to satisfactory clearances including enhanced DBS checks.