Head of Schools

Rochdale Council; Rochdale; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Rochdale Council is seeking a passionate and inclusive leader for the role of Head of Schools Service. You will lead a dedicated team to drive school improvement and ensure high standards of education while fostering partnerships among schools and local authorities. The ideal candidate will have proven leadership experience and a strong track record of delivering positive outcomes for diverse communities. A supportive working environment and flexible working arrangements are offered.

Benefits

Flexible and agile working

Friendly and supportive working environment

Support from senior colleagues and members

Qualifications

• Proven senior leadership experience in education, ideally across multiple settings.
• Deep understanding of school improvement and education policy.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership across the schools service portfolio.
• Lead on school improvement, standards, and accountability.
• Oversee safeguarding, SEND, and admissions.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Stakeholder Engagement

Education

Senior Leadership experience in education

Job description

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Following the promotion of the current post holder, we are seeking an inclusive and people orientated leader to continue to embed our Raising Rochdale strategy as part of our Children & Young People’s Plan with key strategic responsibility for the performance, development, and support of schools across Rochdale. We are passionate about the strong between the local authority, schools and multi Academy trusts and the work we all do together to benefit Rochdale children.

About the Role

As Head of Schools Service, you will lead a dedicated team to ensure high standards of education, inclusion, and safeguarding. You will work closely with school leaders, governors, and external partners to drive improvement, champion equity, and deliver positive outcomes for all children and young people. See our Rochdale Children and Young People's Plan document | Rochdale Borough Council

Our Offer

• Join a passionate and collaborative team committed to excellence, inclusion, and lifelong learning.
• Flexible and agile working
• Friendly and supportive working environment
• Support from senior colleagues and members with excellent relationships with our schools

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership across the schools service portfolio
• Lead on school improvement, standards, and accountability
• Oversee statutory responsibilities including safeguarding, SEND, and admissions
• Build strong partnerships with headteachers, MATs, and other stakeholders
• Manage budgets and resources effectively to support service delivery
• Contribute to wider education strategy and policy development

The Ideal Candidate

• Proven senior leadership experience in education, ideally across multiple settings
• Deep understanding of school improvement, inspection frameworks, and education policy
• Strong track record of delivering positive outcomes for diverse communities
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills
• Strategic thinker with the ability to lead change and innovation

To apply, please submit your CV and a supporting statement demonstrating how you meet the person specification. In addition if you would like an informal discussion with Jane Sowerby, Assistant Director Schools & Inclusion email: [emailprotected] We look forward to hearing from you.

Please include reference to your qualifications that are specified on the person specification within your CV/supporting statement.

Please ensure you anonymise your CV and supporting statement.

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role