Strategic Lead, Alternative Education & SEND

Dovetail & Slate Ltd; Bath; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Youth Connect South West is seeking a Head of Alternative Education to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of our Alternative Provision (AP) and SEND education services. You will lead a diverse team to deliver a flexible, personalised curriculum for around 120 young people, ensuring high standards of teaching, safeguarding and learner progression.

The role requires senior leadership experience in education, with deep knowledge of SEND, Ofsted frameworks and funding compliance.

Qualifications

• Significant senior leadership experience in alternative education.
• Strong understanding of SEND and EHCP processes.
• Experience with Ofsted and quality assurance.
• Experience securing funding and delivering externally funded contracts.
• Excellent communication and partnership-building skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for all Alternative Provision and SEND education services.
• Lead the development and implementation of the education strategy.
• Oversee a flexible, personalised curriculum and ensure high standards of teaching and learner progression.
• Lead quality assurance, Ofsted readiness, and compliance with funding and ILR requirements.
• Develop and maintain relationships with Local Authorities, schools, colleges and providers.
• Support safeguarding, risk management and wellbeing across provision.
• Set and monitor performance measures and support staff development.
• Explore opportunities for Future growth and registration as an education provider.

Skills

Senior leadership

Alternative Provision

SEND knowledge

Curriculum design

Ofsted inspections

Contract management

Funding compliance

Safeguarding

People management

Communication

Education

Teaching qualification (Level 5+)

Job description

Youth Connect South West is seeking a Head of Alternative Education to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of our Alternative Provision (AP) and SEND education services. You will lead a diverse team to deliver a flexible, personalised curriculum for around 120 young people, ensuring high standards of teaching, safeguarding and learner progression.

The role requires senior leadership experience in education, with deep knowledge of SEND, Ofsted frameworks and funding compliance.