Programme Leader: Brickwork

Northumberland College; Ashington; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Ashington is seeking a Programme Leader in Brickwork to advance their construction curriculum. This role focuses on modern building techniques and sustainable practices, preparing students for the evolving industry. Responsibilities include leading curriculum development, ensuring industry alignment, and incorporating digital tools. Candidates should have strong industry experience, teaching qualifications, and be adept in modern construction methods. The position offers a competitive benefits package with generous leave and wellbeing support.

Benefits

Generous holiday allowance (35-48 days plus public holidays)

Flexible working options

Access to a Lifestyle benefits platform

Health cash plans

Extensive wellbeing support

Free parking

Qualifications

• Minimum Level 3 qualification in Brickwork or related discipline.
• Holding or willing to work towards a Level 5 Teaching Qualification.
• Level 2 qualifications in Maths and English.

Responsibilities

• Lead curriculum development in brickwork with sustainable materials.
• Ensure programmes are responsive to industry needs.
• Incorporate digital construction tools into teaching.

Skills

Proven industry experience in brickwork or general construction

Knowledge of modern building techniques and sustainable construction practices

Experience teaching or supporting vocational education and training

Familiarity with digital tools relevant to construction (e.g. site planning software, CAD)

Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills

Education

Minimum Level 3 qualification in Brickwork or Construction-related discipline

Level 5 Teaching Qualification (or willingness to work towards)

Level 2 qualifications in Maths and English

Health and Safety certification desirable

Tools

Digital construction tools (e.g. CAD)

Site planning software

Job description

At Northumberland College, we are seeking an experienced and innovative Programme Leader in Brickwork to lead our construction curriculum into the next era of modern building techniques. This is an exciting opportunity to shape a forward-thinking programme that reflects the evolving demands of the construction industry, where sustainability, digital tools, and modern construction methods are transforming traditional trades. As Programme Leader, you will take ownership of designing and delivering outstanding teaching and learning experiences that prepare students for the fast-changing world of brickwork and general construction. With the UK's commitment to sustainable building and modern construction practices, we're looking for a leader who can integrate themes such as energy‑efficient materials, low‑carbon construction methods, and digital site planning into the core of the curriculum. You will work closely with both regional and national employers to ensure our learners gain the technical skills, professional behaviours, and industry‑recognised qualifications needed to succeed in today's workforce. From modern masonry techniques to digital construction tools like CAD and site management software, you’ll play a key role in bridging classroom learning with real‑world applications.

Role Responsibilities

• Lead curriculum development in brickwork, with an emphasis on sustainable materials and modern construction methods.
• Ensure all programmes are responsive to industry needs and aligned with construction sector developments.
• Incorporate digital construction tools and software into teaching and learning.
• Engage with employers to align the curriculum with real‑world skills and future job opportunities.
• Support and develop teaching staff to deliver engaging, high‑quality learning.
• Promote professional standards, teamwork, and site‑ready behaviours expected in today's construction industry.

Minimum Requirements

• Minimum Level 3 qualification in Brickwork or Construction‑related discipline.
• Level 5 Teaching Qualification (or willingness to work towards).
• Level 2 qualifications in Maths and English.
• Health and Safety certification desirable.

Skills & Experience

• Proven industry experience in brickwork or general construction.
• Knowledge of modern building techniques and sustainable construction practices.
• Experience teaching or supporting vocational education and training.
• Familiarity with digital tools relevant to construction (e.g. site planning software, CAD).
• Strong track record of curriculum development and employer engagement.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills.

Northumberland College is Ofsted Outstanding and is currently building a multi‑million, state‑of‑the‑art, new college campus in Ashington, due to open in 2026. The successful candidate will be based at the new college where a purpose‑built construction, housing, advanced manufacturing and engineering centre will be located. Curriculum spans technical, vocational further and higher education and includes large apprenticeship provision and dedicated centres for young people with SEND. The College has two main campuses in Ashington and Ponteland, and as part of the college group Education Partnership Northeast, it also has a significant number of satellite delivery centres across the region served by easy road links and the new train station in Ashington. When Northumberland College opens its new Department for Education backed campus at Wansbeck Business Park, the college will boast a national trailblazer both in architectural design and operation. This major £52 million+ investment comes on top of the College recently driving £14 million into new facilities and resources at its existing sites.

Benefits

• Enjoy a generous holiday allowance ranging between 35‑48 days per year, plus public holidays (excluding Term Time Only contracts).
• Generous family leave and flexible working options.
• LGPS or Teacher Pensions Scheme.
• Access to a Lifestyle benefits platform providing retail discounts and more.
• We offer dental, eye care & health cash plans.
• Extensive wellbeing support through a dedicated Wellbeing Adviser and a digital Wellbeing Hub that offers a broad range of support for physical, mental, and financial wellbeing.
• Free parking.