Head of Education Quality and Inclusion Initial 6 months | ASAP start £500 Inside IR35 (via umbrella) Hybrid working CVs are being reviewed immediately and interviews will be taking place week commencing May 2026 Step into a pivotal senior leadership opportunity where you will shape the educational outcomes for children and young people across a complex and high‑profile system. As Head of Education Quality and Inclusion, you will report directly into the Service Director and lead a wide portfolio spanning early years, schools, attendance and SEND, with influence across education providers, partners and communities. This is a role with real breadth and impact. You will take a strategic overview of performance and inclusion, drive continuous improvement and ensure children, young people and families receive the highest quality support. If you thrive on partnership working, constructive challenge and system leadership, this is a role where your influence will be visible and lasting. Your role as Head of Education Quality and Inclusion: Strategic leadership across education, early years and SEND, ensuring strong outcomes for all children and young people Building mature partnerships with schools, settings and stakeholders, balancing support and challenge Driving standards, attendance and inclusion, using data to secure sustainable change Oversight of alternative provision, children missing education and elective home education Senior leadership within Inclusion & Learning, providing clear direction, accountability and professional leadership You will be accountable for ensuring services are joined up, responsive and relentlessly focused on improving outcomes, while maintaining a clear strategic grip across a diverse and fast‑moving portfolio. As Head of Education Quality and Inclusion, your ability to see the whole system – and act decisively within it – will be critical. Your previous experience as Head of Education Quality and Inclusion: Senior leadership experience within education, inclusion or children’s services, operating at a strategic level Proven system leadership skills, with experience influencing and partnering with schools and education providers Strong understanding of early years, school improvement, attendance and SEND Track record of improvement, turning strategy into measurable impact Local authority experience, with confidence operating in complex political and partnership environments This is a high‑impact opportunity for an ambitious leader ready to step into a visible and influential role. The Head of Education Quality and Inclusion will play a central part in shaping inclusive education and driving improvement at scale. If you’re interested in discussing this opportunity in more detail, or know someone who would be a strong fit, please contact the Athena on 0117 313 7110 or apply today. We offer a senior referral scheme upon successful placement of your recommendation. Our clients are committed to building a diverse workforce. Recruiting decisions are based on skills and experience, and reasonable adjustments will be fully supported throughout the process.