School Improvement and Learning Group Manager

An exciting opportunity has presented itself to work on behalf of Southend-on-Sea Borough Council in the Department for Learning. Reed are seeking a Group Manager for School Improvement and Learning and we are offering this role on a full time, permanent basis. This role will give you the opportunity to manage the development and implementation of Southend’s ambitions to raise achievement in Southend Schools and ensure that every young child and young person attends a good or outstanding school. Southend-on-Sea has much to offer, both as an area to live and work. Seven miles of award-winning beaches, the longest pleasure pier in the world, over eighty parks and open spaces, great schools, fourteen historic conservation areas, numerous museums theatres and art galleries... and that’s just for starters. The Local Authority has a great sense of pride, and the Borough’s achievement of receiving the ‘Council of the Year’ award illustrates the ambition and aspiration to improve further. Please read on for further information.

In light of government policy you will lead on the preparation and review of School Improvement Strategy by building and maintaining positive working arrangements with head teachers, senior school leaders, post-16 leaders and chairs of governors. You will work closely with and coordinate the functions of a range of Southend Council officers to ensure that schools are effective in enabling children and young people to achieve well. These will include officers from finance, HR, inclusion and SEN, integrated locality services, governor services and audit. You will be expected to intervene in schools when necessary to address areas of concern and ensure rapid improvement. This will involve managing staff effectively, using appropriate strategies for delegation, setting high standards of working practices and the monitoring of individual performance. Enhancing educational outcomes for the children and young people of Southend is the main aim of this role and you will be accountable for providing support and challenging targeted schools in accordance with the School Improvement Priorities and Plan.

In order to be short listed for this role you must be qualified to degree standard or equivalent and be of Qualified Teacher Status. Experience of working to improve educational outcomes in a school or local authority is essential along with specialist knowledge of either primary or secondary education. You must have strong and secure detailed knowledge of current legislation, guidance, practice and advice relating to early years education, school improvement and school inspection, and post-16 provision. You will need to have a proven track record in making a positive impact in this service area and have the confidence and credibility to present to and challenge head teachers and senior members of staff. Due to the nature of this role you will need to be able to drive and have access to your own car. Terms and Conditions of employment will be flexible for the right candidate. A DBS will also be carried out.

If you are interested in this role and would like a full job description, please get in touch with Alex at Reed on 01702 455330 or email  alex.brown@reedglobal.com.