Director of Alternative Provision
17 hours ago
Liverpool
Role Purpose To provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of Alternative Provision (AP), ensuring high-quality education, safeguarding, therapeutic support, and measurable outcomes for pupils who require education outside mainstream settings. The Director will ensure the provision is compliant, financially sustainable, trauma-informed, and relentlessly focused on improving life chances. Key Responsibilities 1. Strategic Leadership • Develop and implement the long-term vision and strategy for Alternative Provision., • Ensure alignment with statutory frameworks (DfE guidance, Ofsted framework, SEND Code of Practice, safeguarding legislation)., • Lead continuous improvement planning and quality assurance processes., • Build a culture of high expectations, accountability, and compassion. 2. Safeguarding & Compliance • Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or oversee DSL function., • Ensure compliance with all safeguarding, health & safety, and regulatory requirements., • Maintain readiness for inspection (Ofsted or relevant regulatory body)., • Oversee risk management systems and incident reporting. 3. Educational Quality • Oversee curriculum design that is flexible, inclusive, and responsive to SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) needs., • Ensure robust assessment, tracking, and progress monitoring systems., • Monitor teaching quality and lead performance management., • Ensure appropriate qualifications pathways (GCSEs, vocational, functional skills). 4. SEND & Inclusion • Ensure EHCP provision is delivered effectively., • Work closely with Local Authorities, SEN teams, and external professionals., • Oversee interventions for pupils with complex needs. 5. Operational Management • Lead and manage senior leaders and staff teams., • Oversee staffing structure, recruitment, retention, and CPD., • Manage budgets and ensure financial efficiency., • Monitor pupil attendance, behaviour, and engagement. 6. Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement • Build strong relationships with Local Authorities, commissioners, schools, social care, and families., • Represent the provision at strategic forums., • Develop referral pathways and service agreements. 7. Data & Impact • Use data intelligently to drive improvement., • Track outcomes including attendance, attainment, reintegration, qualifications, and post-16 destinations., • Report to governors/trustees on performance and risk. Person Specification Essential • Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent senior education experience., • Substantial leadership experience within Alternative Provision, SEMH, or specialist education., • Deep knowledge of safeguarding and SEND legislation., • Experience managing budgets and leading multidisciplinary teams., • NPQH or equivalent leadership qualification., • Experience with Ofsted inspections at leadership level., • Experience working with Local Authorities and commissioning frameworks.