Head of Quality Assurance (FE)

Only FE; Blackburn; On-site; GBP 47,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

EAP 24/7

Gym membership

Cycle to Work

Bus travel discount

Family-friendly policies

Eye tests

Glasses

Hair & Beauty services

Bakery

Job summary

Blackburn College is seeking an experienced Head of Quality Assurance (FE) to lead the development and ongoing improvement of quality systems across the College. You will ensure compliance with internal and external regulatory requirements while fostering a culture of quality enhancement and continuous improvement.

Working with the Director of Quality Innovation and colleagues, you will drive delivery of quality processes, respond to external scrutiny, and support student success and

Qualifications

• Experience in further education quality assurance and enhancement.
• Knowledge of quality assurance frameworks and inspection requirements (Ofsted, FE Commissioner, QARs).
• Strong leadership and change-management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and improvement of QA systems and procedures across the College.
• Ensure compliance with internal and external regulatory requirements.
• Prepare for and respond to external scrutiny and drive quality improvement activity.

Job description

Head of Quality Assurance (FE)

Salary -£55,637

Interview Date:Friday 23 October 2026

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Head of Quality Assurance (FE) to join our Quality Team. This is a pivotal role, responsible for leading the development, implementation and continuous improvement of robust quality assurance systems and procedures across the College. Youwill ensure compliance with all internal and external regulatory requirements while driving a culture of quality enhancement and continuous improvement.

Working closely with the Director of Quality Innovation and the wider Quality Team, you will lead on the effective delivery of quality processes and systems, ensuring that quality objectives are achieved and that the student experience remains at the heart of everything we do. The role will involve working collaboratively with curriculum and support areas to identify opportunities for development and innovation, supporting the continued growth and enhancement of the College's provision. You will play a key role in preparing for and responding to external scrutiny, supporting quality improvement activity, and ensuring that quality assurance processes contribute positively to student success and organisational performance.

What Are We Looking For?

We are looking for a suitably qualified quality professional with substantial experience in further education quality assurance and enhancement. You will have a strong track record of reviewing and developing academic regulations, policies and procedures in collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders, including validating partners and awarding organisations. With extensive and up-to-date knowledge of quality assurance frameworks and inspection requirements, including Ofsted, the FE Commissioner's Office, Quality Assurance Reviews of Teaching, Learning and Assessment, and Curriculum Assessment Reviews, you will be confident in leading quality improvement activity across a complex organisation.

The successful candidate will have significant experience of leading and motivating teams to engage positively with audit, compliance and quality assurance strategies, alongside a proven ability to manage organisational change and deliver successful outcomes. You will be experienced in advising boards, panels and senior leaders on matters relating to the awarding of qualifications, academic appeals, academic malpractice, complaints, disciplinary matters and fitness to practise procedures. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, together with a commitment to excellence, innovation and continuous improvement. You will be a collaborative leader, capable of building effective relationships across the College and inspiring others to achieve the highest standards for our students.

What makes Blackburn College an Employer of choice?

You’ll have access to a wide range of benefits and support, including, but not limited to:

• Employee Assistance Programme with a 24/7/365 helpline for advice and support
• Regular Staff Physical Activity Sessions and reduced-price gym membership
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• DiscountedBusTravelwiththeTransdevCommuterClub
• Family‑friendly policies
• Freeeyetests and contribution to VDU-use-only glasses
• Several food outlets with a variety of menu choices
• A full range of discounted professional Hair & Beauty services provided by the Academy Salon
• Professional bakery offering a variety of fresh breads, cakes, and ready meals

Blackburn College values diversity and is committed to create a diverse workforce. Blackburn College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Appointments are subject to a variety of pre-employment checks, including satisfactory references, medical clearance, and an enhanced DBS check