Head of Schools

Rochdale Borough Council; Rochdale; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A local council committed to education is seeking a dynamic Head of Schools in Rochdale. This leadership role involves driving educational excellence, shaping strategic initiatives, and fostering partnerships within the community. The ideal candidate will have strong skills in collaboration, policy navigation, and a proven commitment to improving educational outcomes for all children. Join us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people across the borough.

Benefits

Strong political support

Collaborative environment

Leadership role with impact

Qualifications

• Proven record of leading educational initiatives and driving improvement.
• Experience in building partnerships with schools and local authorities.
• Strong understanding of educational policy and strategic planning.

Responsibilities

• Drive educational excellence through evidence-informed leadership.
• Build and maintain partnerships with educational stakeholders.
• Lead interventions for schools needing additional support.
• Oversee teams within the Schools Service ensuring high performance.
• Shape frameworks for school improvement and inclusion.
• Provide policy advice to senior leaders.

Skills

Collaboration

Strategic leadership

Educational excellence

Policy navigation

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.

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 child regardless of background has access to high-quality education and the opportunity to achieve their full potential.

What You'll Do

• 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.