Head of Youth College - #188018

Head of Youth College

Location: South Shields

Salary: £55, 363

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Youth College Manager to lead and develop our 14–16 provision at South Tyneside College. This is a pivotal role focused on delivering high-quality education, improving student outcomes, and shaping provision for some of the most vulnerable and complex young people. Youth College is a Y10/Y11 Service Level Agreement provision, aimed at supporting young people of who have previously struggled in mainstream education.

You will play a key role in driving performance, enhancing the student experience, and ensuring our provision meets the highest standards, including those required by Ofsted.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Youth College provision, ensuring high standards of teaching, learning, behaviour, and safeguarding
• Drive improvements in attendance, achievement, and progression for 14–16 learners
• Develop and implement effective support and transition plans
• Work closely with schools, parents/carers, local authorities, and external agencies
• Monitor performance using data and implement targeted interventions
• Lead on quality improvement and ensure readiness for Ofsted inspections
• Manage and develop staff, promoting a strong culture of accountability and excellence
• Contribute to strategic planning, growth, and development of provision

About You

Experience & Knowledge

• Strong background in secondary education or 14–16 provision
• Proven experience working with young people aged 14–16, particularly those facing disadvantage
• Experience of managing transitions with schools, parents, and local authorities
• Track record of improving attendance, engagement, and achievement
• In-depth understanding of Ofsted requirements for 14–16 provision
• Experience of leading teams and driving performance improvement
• Knowledge of working with EHE, LAC/CIC students, and external agencies

Skills

• Confident leader with the ability to inspire and drive change
• Strong partnership-building and stakeholder engagement skills
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Data-driven with the ability to interpret performance and act strategically
• Experienced in quality improvement and managing underperformance
• Able to manage complexity, challenge, and competing priorities

Qualifications

• Degree or relevant professional qualification (essential)
• Teaching qualification (desirable)
• Minimum Level 2 English and Maths (or willingness to achieve)

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for someone with energy, vision, and resilience—a leader who can remove barriers to learning, raise aspirations, and make a tangible difference to young people’s lives.

Additional Information

• Travel across the North East region is required
• This role is subject to enhanced safeguarding checks

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting opportunity to shape and lead a growing 14–16 provision, making a real impact on student outcomes and life chances.

Closing date: 9th June 2026

Shortlist date: 10th June 2026

Interview date: TBC