Job Role: Functional Skills Lead (Justice)
Location: HMP Onley
Salary: From £35,000
Contract: Permanent
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Functional Skills Lead (Assistant Manager) to support the Education Manager in delivering high‑quality education within a prison learning environment.
In this leadership role, you will oversee Functional Skills, Personal & Social Development, and Work‑Based Learning programmes, ensuring excellence in teaching, learning, and assessment. You will play a key part in maintaining compliance with Ofsted and Ministry of Justice standards, driving continuous improvement, and supporting staff to deliver outstanding outcomes for learners.
This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled education professional with strong leadership and curriculum development experience who is passionate about improving opportunities for learners in custody.
Key Responsibilities
Curriculum & Quality Management
Support the Education Manager in coordinating curriculum delivery and ensuring robust quality assurance.
Lead on quality improvement activities, including lesson observations, deep dives, and learning walks.
Develop, implement, and promote a standardised curriculum that meets the needs of learners and employers.
Oversee IQA/EQA planning and support teams to maintain compliance.
Contribute to annual self‑assessment reporting, quality improvement planning, and resource budgeting. Staff Leadership & Development
Line manage and support teaching and support staff, using effective HR strategies to improve learner outcomes.
Induct, coach, and mentor new and existing team members to develop teaching practice.
Coordinate and deliver CPD based on quality findings and staff development needs.
Set, monitor, and review staff targets to ensure contractual and performance expectations are met. Operational & Partnership Responsibilities
Maintain strong partnerships with internal prison departments and external agencies to enhance learner opportunities.
Ensure adherence to safeguarding, equality, health & safety, and all prison security regulations.
Deputise for the Education Manager when required and support day‑to‑day operational management.
Deliver classroom teaching where necessary to support the needs of the provision.
Essential Criteria
Level 5 Teaching Qualification.
Significant teaching experience.
Proven experience in curriculum development, quality assurance, and staff management.
Strong leadership skills with the ability to influence, support, and motivate staff.
Level 3 English and Maths.
Full driving licence and access to transport.
Comprehensive understanding of the Ofsted Education Inspection Framework (EIF).
Desirable Criteria
Level 4 Internal Quality Assurance Award (or willingness to work towards).
Level 5 Operations or Departmental Manager qualification.
Evidence of ongoing CPD.
Experience working within secure environments and commitment to reducing re‑offending through education.
How to Apply
For a confidential discussion or to apply, please contact:
Robert Rowe
(phone number removed)
(url removed)