Director – Western Excellence in Learning and Leadership (WELL) Project

Could you lead the transformation of education in west Cumbria?

We need an outstanding leader to deliver a ground-breaking project to transform educational outcomes. With £1.7m of funding from Sellafield Ltd and the support of the whole education system, the Western Excellence in Learning and Leadership (WELL) project is a unique opportunity for someone with drive, skill and experience to lead a flagship education project that could set the example for the rest of the country. Inspirational, collaborative, focussed and passionate about achieving the best outcomes for children and young people, this is a project for someone to really make their mark.

The project is focused on three key areas:

• raising standards through evidence based research approaches;
• supporting disadvantaged pupils to achieve; and
• improving pupil mental health and wellbeing.

These three areas are significant challenges across west Cumbria where average pupil attainment for disadvantaged pupils is consistently below the national average, the number of disadvantaged pupils consistently above, and emotional health and well-being needs more common than other parts of the county.  

Using the new funding, schools will work together to deliver a wide-ranging programme of interventions aiming to have a transformative impact in all three areas. Exciting elements of the project include: a new approach to teacher recruitment and retention; development of a West Cumbrian Cultural Passport; evidence based teacher professional development; and new ways of engaging with parents. The project will be delivered using a mix of expertise from within the western education system as well as the best external support and guidance.

As Director you will hold overall responsibility for the progress and development of WELL project, and in particular will be responsible for the work meeting a range of Key Performance Indicators through the design and implementation of a one-year project plan.  The role will be office based, but will require extensive travel across the west of Cumbria and sometimes beyond.  The role demands close partnership working with all educational establishments supported by the project, along with the ability to deploy significant resource to meet ambitious aims.  You will be held to account by the Project Board, and will have contact with a range of external stakeholders.  The role is a senior one which holds significant responsibility. 

Closing date: 5th July 2019

Note: This position is offered on a consultancy or secondment basis only.

To apply: Email your CV and a covering letter to – Dan Barton, Assistant Director for Education and Skills, Cumbria County Council – daniel.barton@cumbria.gov.uk

For an informal discussion contact: 01228 226884

Interviews: Candidates shortlisted for interview will be advised by the end of week commencing 8th July 2019. Interviews will take place during week commencing 15th July.