Job title: Head of College – Pure College, Stockport
Salary: £55,000-£59,000 DOE
Hours: 35 hours per week – 1 day WFH
Main geographical location of role: Stockport
Closing date: 30 June 2026
Where do applicants need to apply (preferred option): https://www.pureinnovations.co.uk/job/head-of-college/
Job Description
We are an employability-focused college with a clear mission: to prepare students for sustainable paid employment and successful adult lives.
This is a unique opportunity for a strategic and values-driven leader who is equally comfortable shaping long-term vision whilst remaining highly visible and operational within daily college life. As a small specialist college, relationships matter deeply, and all leaders are expected to work alongside staff and students to maintain a culture of high expectations, inclusion and professionalism, ensuring students are fully prepared for the expectations of the workplace and adulthood. The successful candidate will lead a committed college team and directly line manage 3 key members of staff.
We are looking for a leader who:
champions inclusive education and positive outcomes for students with SEND
can confidently lead quality improvement and sustainable growth
understands the importance of culture, visibility and relational leadership
is passionate about preparing students for adulthood, independence and employment
combines strategic thinking with practical operational leadership
Key Areas of Responsibility
Strategic Leadership:
Provide strategic and operational leadership for the college.
Work closely with college governors to support effective governance and accountability.
Work with the Management Accountant to ensure effective financial oversight, robust management, and long-term sustainability of the college.
Contribute to the continued growth and long-term development of the college.
Ensure the college remains inspection-ready and continues to meet regulatory and quality standards.
Use data and self-assessment processes to improve learner outcomes and inform strategic decision-making.
Maintain a strong understanding of SEND reforms, education policy, and legislative changes, ensuring these are effectively translated into college practice.
Lead and engage in external-facing activity to benefit the college, including developing networks, partnerships with stakeholders, and community engagement.
Quality of Education
Ensure high standards of education, curriculum and student outcomes
Promote a culture of high expectations and ambition for all students
Ensure students develop the skills, confidence and independence needed for adulthood and employment
Lead continuous improvement across teaching, learning and student support
Promote positive destinations, employability and preparation for adulthood outcomes for all students
Culture and Student Experience
Lead and promote a positive, inclusive and student-centred culture
Maintain a highly visible presence across the college and work collaboratively alongside staff and students
Promote high standards of behaviour, attendance, conduct and professionalism
Ensure students are safe, well supported and able to thrive
Employability and Preparation for Adulthood
Lead and promote an employability-focused culture across the college
Ensure the curriculum is carefully sequenced to develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours students need to acquire and sustain paid employment
Maintain high expectations and professional standards so students are fully prepared for the workplace
Ensure students benefit from meaningful work-related learning, employer engagement and real-life experiences
Work collaboratively with Employment Officers, employers and external partners to support positive employment outcomes
Promote independence, confidence and preparation for adulthood across all aspects of college life
Safeguarding and Wellbeing
Lead safeguarding, as the Designated Safeguard Lead, wellbeing and compliance processes across the college
Implement effective risk management processes
Ensure effective systems and processes are in place to support student welfare and safety
Staff Leadership and Management
Line manage members of the Senior Leadership team and support staff
Oversee staff performance management standards and succession planning
Promote reflective practice, provide challenge, support and professional development to staff teams
Promote high expectations, accountability and positive working relationships
Partnership and Stakeholder Experience
Develop effective relationships with families, local authorities, employers and external stakeholders
Promote external visibility and engagement practise
Represent the college positively within the wider community and sector
The company reserves the right to reasonably amend the duties of this role in line with business needs
Are you ready for the next step in your career or want to champion the journey of a small specialist college, if so, this job could be suited to you.