Oaklands College is seeking an outstanding leader to drive the next phase of our higher-level skills strategy. This is a significant opportunity for an experienced professional who is motivated by shaping educational futures, strengthening regional and national skills ecosystems, and leading innovation in higher-level learning.
As the Head of Higher-Level Skills, you will lead the strategic development, growth, and operational delivery of Oaklands’ higher education and professional training offer. This includes Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs), degree apprenticeships, university partnerships, professional training for employers, and the development of a new international training suite.
Your leadership will be central to positioning Oaklands as a recognised provider of higher-level skills, ensuring our programmes are industry-relevant, future-focused, and accessible to learners from diverse backgrounds.
Your Day-to-Day Impact
Strategic Growth and Curriculum Development
* Lead the expansion of Oaklands’ higher education portfolio, including HTQs, degree apprenticeships, and professional qualifications.
* Develop new university partnerships to complement our alliance with the University of Hertfordshire.
* Shape curriculum pathways that reflect employer demand, regional priorities, and national policy.
Professional and International Training Development
* Grow our professional training site for adult learners and employers.
* Develop a bespoke training suite for international students.
* Work closely with Marketing & Admissions to promote higher-level skills to domestic and international audiences.
Learner Progression and Internal Pathways
* Increase internal progression into higher education across all levels.
* Remove barriers to transition and create clear, aspirational pathways.
* Use progression data to inform targeted support and improvement.
Partnerships and External Engagement
* Represent Oaklands in regional and national forums.
* Strengthen relationships with universities, awarding bodies, professional institutes, and employers.
* Identify new commercial opportunities and income streams.
Quality Assurance and Compliance
* Ensure all higher-level programmes meet OfS, QAA, ESFA, and UKVI requirements.
* Lead validation, revalidation, and external examiner processes.
* Monitor student outcomes and drive continuous improvement.
Leadership and Operational Management
* Lead academic and support teams delivering higher-level skills.
* Oversee budgets, performance targets, and resource planning.
* Contribute to strategic planning, risk management, and quality assurance across the College.
Your leadership will directly influence the quality, reach, and reputation of higher-level learning at Oaklands.
Is This You?
Essential
* Experience in HTQs, degree apprenticeships, and professional qualifications.
* Strong understanding of UK HE policy, funding, and regulation (OfS, QAA, ESFA).
* Proven ability to develop and sustain university and employer partnerships.
* Experience designing curriculum pathways aligned to industry and learner needs.
* Skilled in quality assurance, validation, and regulatory compliance.
* Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
* Commercially aware, with the ability to identify and develop new income streams.
* A confident, motivational leader with integrity and a commitment to educational excellence.
Desirable
* Postgraduate qualification or professional accreditation.
* Experience developing international education and training markets.
* Knowledge of UKVI compliance and international student recruitment.
* Familiarity with digital and blended learning models.
* Ability to influence policy or practice at regional or national level.
* Experience using market intelligence to shape curriculum and partnerships.
You will be someone who thrives in a strategic environment, values collaboration, and is passionate about the transformative power of education.
Your Future Starts at Oaklands
At Oaklands College, we value our staff and are committed to your wellbeing and development. When you join us, you become part of a vibrant and forward-thinking team that supports innovation, creativity, and learner-centred teaching.
Here’s what you can look forward to:
* Generous holiday allowance – 35 days plus bank holidays.
* Local Government Pension Scheme with excellent employer contributions.
* Ongoing CPD and free access to Adult Community Learning courses.
* Free onsite permit parking.
* Onsite gym at St Albans Campus and wellness treatments at discounted rates.
* Cycle to Work Scheme and discounted travel through UNO Bus Scheme.
* Eye care vouchers and employee assistance programme.
* Mental health and wellbeing support, including peer supporters.
* Staff development days and annual awards celebrating your achievements.
Oaklands College is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and we actively welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and stakeholders to share this commitment.
We review applications on a rolling basis and may close this advert early if we receive high interest. Don’t miss your opportunity to join a college that’s shaping futures and transforming lives.
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