Role Title: Director of Dance Education
Location: Remote-flexible (with some national travel, occasional overnight stays)
Contract Type: Permanent (potential for secondment considerations; role contingent on contract award)
Salary: £65,000–£75,000
Hours: 37.5 hours per week (part-time loading may be considered)
Apply by: 25/09/2025
Hiring Managers: Gordon Carvern and Rose Fisher-Robins
Help shape the future of Dance Education - nationally and inclusively
At Etio, we help governments and institutions across the globe improve education at scale. Formerly the government services arm of Tribal Group, our work is grounded in evidence, experience, and measurable impact. From workforce development to strategic planning and sector benchmarking, we deliver solutions that strengthen education systems and improve learning outcomes.
About the Role
We’re seeking a nationally credible and experienced leader in dance education to step into a key role within a new DfE-funded programme.
As Director of Dance Education, you’ll be responsible for designing, commissioning, and curating world-class CPD content for teachers of dance across England. You’ll work as part of the senior leadership team to shape programme strategy, oversee high-quality CPD delivery, and lead a team of CPD professionals to ensure national reach, equity, and impact.
This is a high-profile role, ideally suited for someone with a strong track record of national-level leadership in dance CPD, experience managing complex education reform projects, and the ability to innovate and drive change across multiple settings.
You will:
* Lead the design, creation, commissioning, and curation of dance CPD for teachers at all career stages across all school settings.
* Champion a vision for dance professional development that improves teaching practice and student outcomes.
* Draw on national and international research to ensure CPD content meets the highest standards.
* Work as part of the senior leadership team to meet programme KPIs, SLAs, and commercial targets.
* Build and lead a team of CPD professionals to deliver programme objectives effectively.
* Ensure national reach while maintaining local resonance through hubs, networks, and partnerships.
* Innovate delivery models, including hybrid, peer-to-peer, and collaborative approaches.
* Embed robust evaluation and quality assurance to evidence impact.
* Monitor, evaluate, and report on programme progress and outcomes.
* Represent Etio and the programme nationally, influencing stakeholders across the sector.
What You’ll Bring
Essential:
* Degree-level qualification or equivalent professional training.
* Significant leadership experience in dance education and teacher CPD design/delivery.
* Experience working in schools or at a national/system-wide education level.
* Proven ability to design, deliver, and quality assure impactful subject-specific CPD.
* Strong organisational, time management, and project leadership skills.
* Skilled communicator, confident engaging with national-level stakeholders.
* Experience leading CPD content designers and trainers.
* Established network of cultural organisations relevant to dance and the creative arts.
* Self-motivated, collaborative, and comfortable working with dispersed teams.
Desirable:
* Masters or PhD-level professional qualifications, or equivalent research experience.
* Knowledge of national CPD hub models and school leadership frameworks.
* Experience leading large-scale education reform programmes.
* Familiarity with DfE policy and prior policy influencing experience.
* Strong connections with cultural arts organisations and the creative education ecosystem.
* Awareness of international best practice in dance and creative arts education.
Who We Are
* Etio is a mission-driven consultancy providing expertise to improve education systems and outcomes.
* We work in partnership with the Department for Education and sector leaders to deliver high-quality national programmes that raise standards and strengthen the profession.
Benefits
* 25 days annual leave + bank holidays (with option to buy more)
* Flexible working culture
* Private Medical Insurance & Healthcare Cash Plan
* Enhanced family-friendly policies
* Work from anywhere globally (up to 8 weeks)
* Paid volunteer day
* Cycle to Work & Electric Car Scheme
* 3% employer pension contribution
Accessibility and Adjustments
Etio is committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. If you require reasonable adjustments to show your best self during the application or selection process, we are happy to support you.