Job Title- Head of Alternative Provision Business area -Alternative Provision Exempt from Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (RoA)- No Role Purpose The Head of Alternative Provision (AP) leads the strategic and operational delivery of high-quality education for vulnerable students with complex needs. The role ensures that all students receive a safe, supportive, and personalised experience from referral through to transition. A key part of the role is overseeing the referral, admissions, and suitability assessment process, ensuring all incoming students are rigorously assessed so the provision can safely and effectively meet their needs. This includes coordinating referral information, liaising with schools and external agencies, leading suitability and risk assessments, and making evidence-based decisions on whether the AP is the right setting for each student. The Head of AP is responsible for managing the delivery team, ensuring that centralised processes and procedures—particularly in HR, safeguarding, behaviour, and quality assurance—are consistently applied. They drive a culture of high expectations, therapeutic support, and positive outcomes, ensuring the provision meets regulatory requirements and delivers excellent practice across all areas. (Full Job profile can be provided on declaration of interest) Experience and qualifications Essential Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) Proven leadership experience within alternative provision, SEMH settings, SEND provision, or specialist education. Strong understanding of trauma-informed practice, safeguarding, behaviour support and SEND. Excellent communication, relationship-building, and multi-agency working skills. Evidence of leading quality improvements and achieving positive learner outcomes. Ability to analyse data and use it to inform strategic decisions. Strong organisational and problem-solving skills. Experience working with vulnerable learners, complex needs, or high-risk environments. Experience in commissioning, alternative pathways, or vocational curriculum design. Must hold a full UK driving licence and have access to a reliable vehicle with appropriate business-use insurance, as the role requires travel between sites and external meetings. Desirable National Award for SEN Coordination (NASENCO) or equivalent SENCO qualification. Experience managing multidisciplinary teams. Behaviours and Attitudes Empathy & Respect Demonstrates genuine understanding of the lived experiences of vulnerable learners, treating all individuals with dignity and patience. Creates an inclusive environment where every learner feels valued and supported. Integrity & Honesty Acts with professionalism, fairness, and transparency, particularly in safeguarding and decision-making. Upholds policies consistently and models ethical conduct at all times. Resilience & Commitment Remains calm, solution-focused, and adaptable when faced with complex or high-pressure situations. Shows sustained commitment to improving outcomes and driving high standards across the provision. Trust & Authenticity Builds trust through reliability, openness, and consistent behaviour. Leads with authenticity, fostering a culture where staff feel safe to speak openly, seek support, and raise concerns appropriately. Declarations We aim to create and maintain a safe environment and community where all young people and adults feel safe, secure and valued. We work hard to create strong relationships and show a commitment to safeguarding all young people. Our work is classified as Regulated Activity as defined in the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 (SVGA). This role will include regular contact with Children 121 or group setting. This includes those that could be classified as vulnerable and both an understanding of and experience in adhering to UK safeguarding legislation is required. Further information relating to our Safeguarding, Child Protection, Ex-offender or Safer Recruitment policies are available upon request. All applications are assessed on an individual basis in relation to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974. This post will require the successful candidate to complete our Disclosure Barring Service, Vulnerable Child and Adult register checks as well as reference checks. We may also carry out additional online searches such as social media as part of the selection process. Company pension On-site parking Licence/Certification: Driving Licence (required) Work Location: In person