Head of Schools

Rochdale Council; Rochdale; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A progressive local authority in Rochdale seeks a dynamic Head of Schools to shape and improve educational outcomes for children. The role involves strategic leadership, fostering partnerships with schools and monitoring educational policies to ensure inclusivity. Candidates should demonstrate a strong background in educational leadership and a commitment to driving positive change. This permanent position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the educational landscape within the borough.

Benefits

Strong political and corporate support for education

Collaborative work environment

Opportunity to drive meaningful change

Qualifications

• Experience in educational leadership roles.
• Ability to drive strategic improvement across schools.
• A strong track record in fostering inclusion and equity.

Responsibilities

• Drive educational excellence through strategic leadership.
• Build partnerships with schools and external agencies.
• Oversee improvement strategies for underperforming schools.
• Advise on education policy to senior leaders.
• Deputize for senior management in the schools service.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Collaboration

Policy navigation

Commitment to inclusion

Educational excellence

Education

Relevant educational leadership qualification

Job description

Rochdale is ambitious in its plans to support the inclusion, aspiration and potential of all children and young people.

Rochdale has a relational approach; we are proud about our culture and partnerships. We are pioneering in making a difference for children and families. We are looking for a Head of Schools who is ambitious for our children and have a commitment to working hard to support them in reaching their full potential.

As Head of Schools you will join us in shaping an exceptional future for children and young people across Rochdale. Rochdale Borough Council is seeking an outstanding and passionate education leader to take on the pivotal role of Head of Schools within our Schools and Inclusion Service. This is a unique opportunity to influence borough-wide education strategy, champion excellence, and work in close partnership with schools, Multi Academy Trusts, and local, regional and national partners to secure the very best outcomes for our children and young people.

As our new Head of Schools, you will lead a highly dedicated service at a time of ambition, innovation and transformation. You will be central to driving forward the Rochdale Education and Skills Strategy, delivering on the priorities of the Children and Young People’s Plan, and supporting the continued success of our Raising Rochdale initiative.

What You’ll Bring

We are looking for a strategic, solutions-focused leader who thrives on collaboration, influence and impact. You will be confident working with senior education leaders, adept at navigating a complex policy landscape, and motivated by a deep commitment to inclusion and equity. Your expertise will help steer the improvement journey of schools across the borough, ensuring that every childregardless of backgroundhas access to high-quality education and the opportunity to achieve their full potential.

What You’ll Do

In this senior leadership role, you will:

Drive educational excellence through strong, evidence-informed strategic leadership.

Build and maintain purposeful partnerships with schools, MATs, and external agencies.

Lead coordinated intervention and improvement strategies for schools requiring additional support.

Oversee and inspire a range of teams within the Schools Service, ensuring high performance and a culture of continuous improvement.

Support financial sustainability and create successful business models for the Local Authority.

Shape and implement impactful frameworks for school improvement, inclusion, and trauma-informed practice.

Provide expert advice on education policy and practice to senior leaders and elected members.

Deputise for the Assistant Director of Schools and Inclusion, contributing to corporate and strategic priorities.

Why Join Rochdale?

Rochdale Borough Council is proud, passionate and pioneering. Under our Raising Rochdale pledge, we are committed to making a real difference in the lives of our children and families, and we’re looking for someone who shares our drive and values. This role offers:

A borough-wide remit with the opportunity to drive meaningful change

Strong political and corporate support for education and inclusion

A collaborative environment where innovation is encouraged

A leadership role that directly shapes outcomes for thousands of young people

This is your opportunity to lead with impact, champion excellence, and help shape a bright future for the borough’s children. If you are a dynamic, forward-thinking education leader with the passion and skill to make a significant difference, we would love to hear from you.

Apply now and be part of our journey to achieve outstanding outcomes for every child in Rochdale.

Interviews will be held on 10th-12th February.

This is a permanent post, however, a secondment may be considered.

This post is subject to an enhanced DBS under the child workforce.

If you have completed the GM Elevate (Leadership Development) Programme, please indicate this within the ‘About You’ or ‘Supporting Statement’ section of your application.

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role