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 07935 141342
JBRP1_UKTJ