Description
Are you ready to shape the future of work and learning? Sandwell College is seeking an exceptional leader to drive our ambitious Apprenticeships and Employability strategy. This is a unique opportunity to lead transformative programmes that empower learners, engage employers, and deliver real-world impact across our region.
As Director of Apprenticeships & Employability, you’ll be at the forefront of innovation—designing and delivering high-quality, employer-responsive provision that meets the evolving needs of industry and the community. You’ll work closely with internal teams, external partners, and national stakeholders to ensure Sandwell College remains a leader in vocational education and workforce development.
Join us in creating pathways to success for thousands of learners and helping businesses thrive through skills excellence.
🔑Key Responsibilities
* Lead the strategic development and operational delivery of Apprenticeships and Employability programmes.
* Ensure compliance with DfE, Ofsted, and other regulatory bodies.
* Drive employer engagement and partnership development across sectors.
* Oversee curriculum design, quality assurance, and learner outcomes.
* Manage budgets, contracts, and performance targets.
* Champion innovation, inclusivity, and continuous improvement.
* Represent the College in regional and national forums.
🧠Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
* Strategic leadership and vision-setting.
* Deep understanding of apprenticeship standards and employability initiatives.
* Experience of curriculum design to meet needs of employers
* Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship-building.
* Financial and contract management.
* Data-driven decision-making and performance analysis.
* Excellent communication and influencing skills.
📚 Headline Experience
* Proven track record in leading large-scale apprenticeship or employability programmes.
* Experience leading a business development team to deliver a range of engagement and recruitment targets
* Experience working with employers, training providers, and funding agencies.
* Familiarity with FE sector regulations, funding models, and quality standards.
* Successful delivery of growth, innovation, and impact in a similar role.
Benefits
✅ Top-Tier Salaries – We offer sector-leading pay with some of the most competitive salaries around
🏖 Unbeatable Time Off – Enjoy 35-50 days of annual leave, plus 8 bank holidays AND extra time off at Christmas – because work-life balance is essential
🚀 Fast-Track Your Career – Take advantage of dedicated development days, career pathways, and talent schemes designed to help you grow and succeed
🚴 Cycle to Work Scheme – A healthier, greener, and more cost-effective way to commute
💆♀️ Exclusive Discounts on Onsite Services – Save on Bliss Hair & Beauty Salon, dog grooming, car health checks, and more
🏋 Fitness Perks – Enjoy our college gym facilities or discounted rates at local gyms to keep you feeling your best
💰 Generous Pension Contributions – We invest in your future with 23.68% employer contribution for teaching roles and 21.5% for non-teaching roles
🛍 Retail & Travel Discounts – Unlock exclusive savings on high street brands, local transport, cross-country travel. UNIDAYS, Student Beans and Blue Light Discount
📜 Free Will Writing – We’ve got your back with professional support for your future planning
💉 Free Flu Vaccine – Stay healthy and protected at no cost to you
🧘 Wellbeing Support – Access confidential counselling services and wellness platforms to support your mental and emotional health
🏆 We Celebrate You! – We recognise and appreciate your hard work with awards, recognition events, and celebration days throughout the year.
Interested parties are warmly encouraged to discuss the opportunity in confidence with Asa Gordon, Deputy Principal through Sophie Sinclair on 0121 667 5499 or by contacting Sophie.sinclair@sandwell.ac.uk
Sandwell Family of Colleges is a group of educational institutions located in the West Midlands region of England, offering a diverse range of courses and programs to cater to various interests and career aspirations. The family comprises of Sandwell College, Cadbury Sixth Form College, Central St Michael, Professional Academy, Central St Michaels Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Centre. With state-of-the-art facilities, experienced teaching staff, and a commitment to student success, the Sandwell Family of Colleges provides a supportive and inclusive learning environment, enabling individuals to pursue their educational and career goals effectively.
Sandwell Family of Colleges is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We have robust policies and procedures in place to ensure a safe and secure learning environment for all our students and staff. At Sandwell Family of Colleges, we believe that creating a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment is essential for enabling our students to thrive academically and personally. We are unwavering in our commitment to safeguarding and will continue to uphold the highest standards to protect the most vulnerable members of our community.
Please note that as part of our onboarding process, you will be required to either undergo an Enhanced DBS check or provide your existing Enhanced DBS certificate if you are registered with the Update Service.
We expect all applicants to be fully transparent about any information that may be disclosed as part of this check so that we can discuss it at the earliest opportunity. For more information on what may show on your Enhanced DBS check please visit: