Join to apply for the Head of Quality and Curriculum role at Acorn Training Ltd.
Application Deadline: 9 January 2026
Department: Skills Management
Location: Hybrid
Compensation: £40,000 - £44,000 per year
An exciting opportunity to develop your career with the third fastest growing training provider in the UK. Acorn Training is a highly successful, skills, justice, employment and health provider with strong corporate values and inclusive ethos – winner of The World Skills UK Social Inclusion and Diversity Network of the Year award.
Key Responsibilities and Key Performance Indicators
* Quality Assurance and Compliance:
o Support directors to coordinate the completion of a comprehensive Self‑Assessment Report (SAR) and Quality Improvement Plan (QIP).
o Coordinate the process of creating programme and department‑level self‑assessment and quality improvement planning, including post‑inspection action plans.
o Provide nominee support during an Ofsted inspection, ensuring compliance and effective communication throughout the process.
o Monitor external practice and guidance from Ofsted Education Inspection Framework, DfE Apprenticeship Accountability Framework, AELP, ERSA, IEP and QAR data to inform internal practice.
o Undertake work‑scrutiny audits in line with an audit plan that contributes towards ISO9001, ensuring all aspects of the learning journey are effective and weaknesses are identified and rapidly improved.
o Manage relationships with awarding organisations to ensure centre and scheme approval is maintained.
o Key Performance Indicators:
+ SAR and QIP completion by agreed deadlines.
+ Ofsted readiness and compliance evidence.
+ Nominee support effectiveness and positive feedback.
+ Continued accreditation and awarding organisation approvals.
* Data Analysis and Reporting:
o Analyse data and trends across Apprenticeship, Adult Learning and devolved skills contracts to identify improvement areas.
o Use a range of data sources and qualitative information to analyse and make judgments about trends in the quality of teaching, learning and assessment.
o Complete monthly quality and performance reports and present findings at monthly management meetings.
o Report to EMT monthly on the quality of teaching, learning and assessment.
o Key Performance Indicators:
+ Timely delivery of monthly reports.
+ Actionable insights and progress tracking.
+ Positive regulatory KPI trends.
* Teaching, Learning and Assessment:
o Coordinate a comprehensive observation programme of teaching, learning and assessment internally and with subcontractor partners.
o Lead information learning technology (ILT) initiatives to develop teachers’ use of technology.
o Coordinate and deliver continued professional development (CPD) to improve the quality of teaching, learning and assessment.
o Key Performance Indicators:
+ 100% observation programme completion each quarter.
+ CPD delivery with 90% positive feedback.
+ Evidence of increased technology integration.
* Staff Development and Wellbeing:
o Coordinate strategies to enhance staff wellbeing collaboratively with HR.
o Develop CPD and staff wellbeing plans to drive Talent Management, Retention and Wellbeing.
o Support staff on a one‑to‑one and small group basis where intensive action planning and skills development are required.
o Key Performance Indicators:
+ Individual action plans in place for 100% identified staff.
+ Effective monthly one‑to‑one sessions with direct reports.
* Leadership and Management:
o Line‑manage the Lead IQA, Head of Data Analytics & Reporting and Curriculum Development & Quality Lead.
o Coordinate Education and Training programmes, including monitoring all internal apprentices.
o Support senior leaders with system implementation and business development, including bid writing and partnership development.
o Support senior managers to achieve growth targets in line with the Strategic Plan.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
* Qualifications and Specific Training:
o Minimum Level 5 teaching, learning and assessment qualification (e.g., Cert Ed, DTLLS, Diploma in Education and Training).
o Level 5 or above subject specialism.
o Level 3 CAVA and Level 4 IQA or equivalent.
o GCSE (or equivalent) in English Language and Mathematics.
o Level 2 IT Qualification.
o Full Driving Licence.
o Level 5 learning and development or leadership and management qualification (desirable).
o Master of Education (MEd) or similar (desirable).
o First Aid at Work Certificate (desirable).
o IOSH Health and Safety Qualification (desirable).
* Experience:
o Proven experience in educational leadership roles, preferably in curriculum design, instructional development or quality assurance.
o Proven experience in managing curriculum development teams and programme evaluation.
o Proven track record of successful curriculum development and implementation aligned with industry demands and learning outcomes.
o Proven experience supporting throughout an Ofsted inspection (desirable).
* Knowledge:
o Strong understanding of the FE and training sector.
o In‑depth understanding of educational theories, pedagogical principles and curriculum development methodologies.
o Knowledge of accreditation standards, regulatory requirements and quality assurance processes in the adult education sector.
o Understanding of assessment strategies and methodologies for measuring learning outcomes.
o Familiarity with industry trends, emerging technologies and best practices in curriculum design and delivery (desirable).
* Skills:
o Ability to lead and inspire curriculum development teams and set clear goals.
o Thoroughness in ensuring curriculum alignment with learning outcomes, quality standards and regulatory requirements.
o Strong ability to collaborate with diverse teams, departments and external partners.
o Adaptable to changes in the education landscape, industry demands and regulatory guidelines.
o Proficiency in using technology and software tools for curriculum design and assessment (desirable).
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We welcome applications from all suitably‑qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, disability, marital or parental status, ethnic or social origin, religion, belief, or sexual orientation. During the recruitment process we will take reasonable adjustments to ensure equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities or special needs.
As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy.
For alternative application options or support, contact recruitment@acorntraining.co.uk.
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