Head of Learning - Academic

At OFG we believe in creating a better work life balance

Job Title

Head of Learning - Academic

Location

Bricklehurst Manor School, Stonegate, East Sussex, TN5 7EL

Salary

Up to £48,000 per annum (depending on experience, not pro rata)

Hours

37.5 hours per week | Monday to Friday | 8:00 am - 4:00 pm including 1 x 5pm finish

Contract

Permanent | Term Time Only

Start

October 2026

UK Applicants Only — this role does not offer sponsorship.

About the Role

We are seeking an exceptional and passionate Head of Learning (Academic) to join our senior leadership team and drive the strategic development of our academic curriculum. This is a pivotal role for an experienced practitioner who thrives in a nurturing, therapeutic environment and is committed to ensuring that pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs receive a highly personalised, ambitious, and accessible education.

The successful candidate will lead on curriculum design, quality assurance, assessment, and staff development, while modelling outstanding teaching practice. With a 50% teaching load, you will remain closely connected to the classroom, ensuring your leadership is grounded in the lived experience of our pupils and staff.

What You’ll Be Doing

Lead the design, implementation, and ongoing evaluation of an adapted SEMH‑focused academic curriculum.

Monitor and quality‑assure teaching and learning through observations, work scrutinies, and pupil voice.

Oversee assessment systems and analyse data to track progress and inform curriculum improvements.

Set ambitious academic targets for individuals and groups based on data insights.

Manage academic resources and budget to support high‑quality curriculum delivery.

Mentor and support subject leaders to ensure consistency and progression across all curriculum areas.

Model outstanding, adaptive, trauma‑informed teaching with a 50% teaching commitment.

Support staff development through coaching, mentoring, and identifying training needs.

Contribute to whole‑school strategic planning and improvement, particularly around academic standards.

Collaborate with external agencies, uphold safeguarding, and communicate effectively with parents and stakeholders.

Who We’re Looking For

QTS or relevant vocational teaching qualification required

Experience leading or contributing to curriculum development, assessment, and data‑driven improvement.

Proven ability to support, mentor, or lead staff, or clear readiness to step into a leadership role.

Demonstrated success in raising achievement for pupils with complex needs.

Deep understanding of SEMH needs, trauma‑informed practice, and their impact on learning.

Strong curriculum and pedagogical expertise, including effective assessment methods.

Excellent interpersonal and relational skills, with the ability to build trust with pupils, families, and professionals.

Resilient, adaptable, and proactive leader who motivates others and remains calm under pressure

Driving licence required

About the School

Bricklehurst Manor School is a brand-new, co-educational SEMH school located in Wadhurst, East Sussex, for pupils aged 11–16. The school will cater for up to 60 pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and associated additional needs.

This is a unique opportunity to join the school at its inception, helping to shape the culture, ethos, and learning environment. With small class sizes and a strong focus on personalised support, Bricklehurst Manor School provides a nurturing, inclusive setting where every pupil can build confidence, resilience, and achieve their full potential.

Acorn Education offers rewarding careers and meaningful challenges while making a real difference in young people’s lives. As a leading UK provider of specialist education for children and young people with special educational needs, and part of Outcomes First Group, we deliver innovative, evidence-based approaches that support measurable progress and lasting impact.

We are really proud to say that in 2025 Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the sixth year running.

Why Join Us?

We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.

Life Assurance

Pension scheme with options to increase contributions

“Your Wellbeing Matters” – mental health support and physical health checks

Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including

Health, wellbeing and insurance benefits

Hundreds of UK and international discounts

Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme

Critical illness cover

Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.

#1