Programme Director for Initial Teacher Education

Oxford Brookes University; Oxford; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Oxford is seeking an experienced leader to head their Initial Teacher Education team, specializing in primary education. The role includes providing academic leadership, engaging stakeholders, and conducting research. The ideal candidate will have a proven record in educational leadership and a commitment to excellence in teaching. This position offers competitive benefits, including 35 days of holiday and a comprehensive pension scheme.

Benefits

35 days holiday

Competitive pension scheme

Discounted gym facilities

Training and development opportunities

Relocation scheme

Qualifications

• Proven track record in academic leadership.
• Experience in Initial Teacher Education.
• Strong engagement with stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Provide academic leadership for ITE programmes.
• Engage with stakeholders to create new opportunities.
• Conduct teaching and research activities.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Teaching

Research

Education

Relevant educational qualifications

Job description

Overview

Inspire the next generation of teachers. We are seeking an inspirational and experienced leader to head our Initial Teacher Education (ITE) team, which specialise in primary education. You will take forward a team which has recently undergone significant change and was graded Good in all measures by Ofsted in January 2025. This is an exciting opportunity to lead the development of our ITE programmes, shaping their future direction and ensuring continued excellence.

The role

• Provide academic leadership and direction for Initial Teacher Education programmes (specialising in primary).
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders to create and grow new opportunities that enhance the School’s portfolio.
• Undertake teaching and research, contributing to our reputation for impactful scholarship.
• Play an active role in bidding and other income-generating activities.
• Support the Head and Deputy Heads of School in the day-to-day management of academic activities.

About Oxford Brookes

Oxford Brookes is a modern, forward-thinking institution with strong roots in a city renowned for its cultural and educational heritage. We are recognised internationally for:

• Innovative teaching and student experience.
• Our commitment to sustainability.
• Research that makes a real difference to society.

About the School of Education, Humanities and Languages

The School is a vibrant and inclusive community, bringing together expertise across:

• Education (including teacher training).
• Communications, media and culture.
• Creative writing, drama, theatre and acting.
• History and history of art.
• Japanese studies, literature, languages and translation.
• Philosophy.

Our staff and students work at the cutting edge of research and practice, exploring how these subjects shape and reflect society and culture today.

Being based in Oxford offers unparalleled opportunities:

• Partnerships with world-leading cultural organisations and museums.
• Deep connections with local schools, employers and community groups.
• Opportunities for students to study abroad, take work placements and gain practical experience.

Why join us?

At Oxford Brookes, you will be part of a supportive and ambitious academic community. You will play a key role in shaping the future of Initial Teacher Education, while contributing to a School that values collaboration, innovation and impact.

To find out more about this role please review the full Applicant Information Pack, which includes the job description and person specification. You can find all vacancies at Oxford Brookes Business School’s website: www.brookes.ac.uk/vacancies.

As an Oxford Brookes employee, you will enjoy a total of 35 days holiday, plus 8 Bank Holidays and additional University concessionary Days (approx 5 per year).

We have an extremely competitive Teachers pension scheme with a 26.68% Employer contribution rate, as well as providing all staff with financial education, a comprehensive employee assistance helpline.

We prioritise the well-being of our employees—both physically and mentally, as well as financially. That\'s why we provide a diverse and comprehensive benefits package to support our team.

In addition, all employees have access to:

• Discounted rates for the University sports & gym facilities
• Brookes on-site Nursery.
• Discounted travel options
• TOTUM card discount scheme
• Relocation scheme (for moves over 30 miles)
• Training and development opportunities
• Connected community - Brookes have a wide variety of staff networks which instil a sense of community offering employees a space for support, guidance and friendship making it a vibrant and inclusive place to work.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

At Oxford Brookes, inclusivity is one of our five guiding principles: we take positive steps to create an environment in which we celebrate, value and provide equal opportunity to all. We are committed to recruiting from the widest possible pool and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates who embrace our values, regardless of their background.

As a Disability Confident Employer we guarantee to interview any disabled applicant who meets the essential selection criteria.