School Leader Advisor
Salary undisclosed
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This role is available anywhere in England with travel to sites in England required. Location options will be discussed with the successful applicant at the point of offer
Job Summary
Come and join the Department and take a leading role in shaping schools policy, working closely with policymakers to develop innovative strategies and programmes that drive meaningful change in schools.
This new secondment offers a unique opportunity for an experienced school leader to contribute directly to policy development and sector engagement. You will bring your expertise, insight, and leadership to help inform the Government’s Opportunity Mission—breaking down barriers to opportunity and ensuring every child can achieve their full potential. We are looking to appoint one or more secondees into the department for between 6-12 months.
This role is available anywhere in England with travel to sites in England required. Location options will be discussed with the successful applicant at the point of offer
Job Description
Open to leaders in primary and secondary school settings, this role will see you working closely with Civil Servants and education leaders on key priority projects in areas such as raising standards and delivering RISE universal priorities, promoting best practice, and supporting schools to achieve excellence
You Will:
You Will:
Applicants will be assessed against the following criteria. You will need to demonstrate that you meet all the essential criteria through your CV and supporting statement.
Essential Criteria
You will need to demonstrate evidence of:
You Should Also Demonstrate:
You must not have been previously barred from being a proprietor or head teacher of a school under section 128 of the Education and Skills Act 2008.
To preserve the separation of Ofsted’s inspection you may not also be a serving Ofsted inspector
Qualifications
You must hold a recognised teaching qualification which has resulted in Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
We offer flexible working arrangements, such as job sharing, term-time working, flexi-time and compressed hours.
Selection process details
Application
To apply for this role, you need to complete an online application via the Civil Service Jobs portal. Applications will be accepted until 23:55 on 30th of April 2025
You Will Be Asked To Provide:
If you are unable to apply online, please contact [email protected] in the first instance. Please visit our career site for further information on the Civil Service application process.
Please Note The Following:
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a formal panel interview on w/c 5th of May 2025. This will be face to face in Sanctuary Buildings, London.
You will be asked to prepare a presentation for the interview (further information will be shared with shortlisted candidates) and you will be asked questions to further assess your Experience.
As part of the recruitment process. we may request references.
Department for Education do not cover the cost of travel to your interview/assessment unless otherwise stated.
Please note that at interview stage we may ask if you have any conflicts of interest to declare.
Candidates With Disabilities
As an employer we are committed to promoting and protecting the physical and mental health and wellbeing of all our colleagues and applicants. The Department for Education uses the Disability Confident scheme (formerly the Guaranteed Interview scheme) to help widen employment opportunities for disabled people. Applicants with disabilities who meet the essential criteria, as stated in the person specification, the Civil Service nationality requirements and indicate they are applying under the Disability Confident scheme will be guaranteed an interview.
Employment scheme for Veterans
The ‘Great Place to Work for Veterans scheme’ makes it easier for veterans to join the Civil Service. If you opt into the scheme and meet the minimum criteria, you’ll progress to the next stage for most roles – whether that’s an interview or an online test.
Other Information
We understand that you might use AI and other resources for your application; however, please ensure all information you provide is factually accurate, truthful, and original and doesn’t include ideas or work that isn’t your own. This is so that your application is authentically and credibly your own.
We reserve the right to raise the minimum pass mark in the event of a high volume or strong field of candidates.
Please be aware that this role can only be worked in the UK from the location options provided and not from overseas.
If successful and transferring from another Government Department a criminal record check maybe carried out.
In order to process applications without delay, we will be sending a Criminal Record Check to Disclosure and Barring Service on your behalf. However, we recognise in exceptional circumstance some candidates will want to send their completed forms direct. If you will be doing this, please advise Department of Education of your intention by emailing [email protected] stating the job reference number in the subject heading.
Department for Education do not cover the cost of travel to your interview/assessment unless otherwise stated.
A reserve list may be held for a period of 6 months from which further appointments can be made.
Candidates will be posted in merit order based upon location preference. Where more than one location is advertised you will be asked to state your preferred location.
New entrants are expected to join on the minimum of the pay band.
Applicants who are successful at interview will be, as part of pre-employment screening subject to a check on the Internal Fraud Database (IFD). This check will provide information about employees who have been dismissed for fraud or dishonesty offences. This check also applies to employees who resign or otherwise leave before being dismissed for fraud or dishonesty had their employment continued. Any applicant’s details held on the IFD will be refused employment.
Reasonable adjustment
If a person with disabilities is put at a substantial disadvantage compared to a non-disabled person, we have a duty to make reasonable changes to our processes. If you need a change to be made so that you can make your application, you should complete the “Assistance required” section in the “Additional requirements” page of your application form to tell us what changes or help you might need further on in the recruitment process. For instance, you may need wheelchair access at interview, or if you’re deaf, a Language Service Professional.
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
Security
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Nationality requirements
This Job Is Broadly Open To The Following Groups:
Working for the Civil Service
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window).
This vacancy is part of the Great Place to Work for Veterans (opens in a new window) initiative.
Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.
Contact point for applicants
Job Contact :
The Department for Education’s recruitment processes are underpinned by the Civil Service Commissioners Recruitment Principles, which outlines that selection for appointment is made on merit based on fair and open competition. You have the right to complain if you feel a department has breached the requirement of the Recruitment Principles. In the first instance, you should raise the matter directly with the department concerned via [email protected]. If you are not satisfied with the response, you may bring your complaint to the Commission. For further information on bringing a complaint to the Civil Service Commission please visit their web pages
Job Summary
Come and join the Department and take a leading role in shaping schools policy, working closely with policymakers to develop innovative strategies and programmes that drive meaningful change in schools.
This new secondment offers a unique opportunity for an experienced school leader to contribute directly to policy development and sector engagement. You will bring your expertise, insight, and leadership to help inform the Government’s Opportunity Mission—breaking down barriers to opportunity and ensuring every child can achieve their full potential. We are looking to appoint one or more secondees into the department for between 6-12 months.
This role is available anywhere in England with travel to sites in England required. Location options will be discussed with the successful applicant at the point of offer
Job Description
Open to leaders in primary and secondary school settings, this role will see you working closely with Civil Servants and education leaders on key priority projects in areas such as raising standards and delivering RISE universal priorities, promoting best practice, and supporting schools to achieve excellence
You Will:
- Work with teams within the department to develop strategies to promote high and rising standards and create a self-improving sector in key areas of policy.
- Provide insights into effective engagement approaches for teachers, headteachers and school staff across the sector.
- Identify the key challenges schools face and contribute to solutions through peer review, networking, and mentoring.
- Facilitate the dissemination of good practice and evidence-based approaches to support continuous improvement/policy development
You Will:
- Work with teams within the department to develop strategies to promote high and rising standards and create a self-improving sector in key areas of policy.
- Provide insights into effective engagement approaches for teachers, headteachers and school staff across the sector.
- Identify the key challenges schools face and contribute to solutions through peer review, networking, and mentoring.
- Facilitate the dissemination of good practice and evidence-based approaches to support continuous improvement/policy development
Applicants will be assessed against the following criteria. You will need to demonstrate that you meet all the essential criteria through your CV and supporting statement.
Essential Criteria
You will need to demonstrate evidence of:
- An exceptional track record of being a school leader in a primary or secondary school setting
- Deep and broad knowledge and understanding of school improvement practice that is grounded in robust evidence, and ability to translate this into system-level policy.
- Evidence of continued support to inclusive mainstream.
- Fostering strong professional relationships based on support and challenge that deliver change and hold others to account in an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.
- A highly skilled collaborator, adept at working across teams, influencing key stakeholders, and sharing best practice.
- A strong track record of working with disadvantaged children, driving initiatives that close attainment gaps, foster inclusion, and create opportunities for all.
You Should Also Demonstrate:
- A strategic understanding of school contexts, and an understanding of the key challenges in the sector
- An interest in data and digital to drive insight and improvement
- An awareness of the current changes taking place in education and an understanding of the key stakeholders in education including the various forms of support available.
You must not have been previously barred from being a proprietor or head teacher of a school under section 128 of the Education and Skills Act 2008.
To preserve the separation of Ofsted’s inspection you may not also be a serving Ofsted inspector
Qualifications
You must hold a recognised teaching qualification which has resulted in Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
We offer flexible working arrangements, such as job sharing, term-time working, flexi-time and compressed hours.
Selection process details
Application
To apply for this role, you need to complete an online application via the Civil Service Jobs portal. Applications will be accepted until 23:55 on 30th of April 2025
You Will Be Asked To Provide:
- A CV setting out your career history, with key responsibilities and achievements. Please ensure you have provided reasons for any gaps within the last two years
- A Statement of Suitability (no longer than 2 sides or 1,000 words) detailing ‘why should we consider you for this role’ (up to 500 words) and why you would like to work in the Department for Education (up to 500 words) and addressing your suitability against the key criteria. You can choose to outline any further information you believe is relevant for the role.
If you are unable to apply online, please contact [email protected] in the first instance. Please visit our career site for further information on the Civil Service application process.
Please Note The Following:
- We cannot accept applications submitted after the closing date.
- Applications will be assessed solely on the documentation provided.
- Please refer to the advert and checklist above to ensure you have provided everything requested.
- Applications will be acknowledged upon receipt.
- Feedback will only be given to candidates unsuccessful following interview.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a formal panel interview on w/c 5th of May 2025. This will be face to face in Sanctuary Buildings, London.
You will be asked to prepare a presentation for the interview (further information will be shared with shortlisted candidates) and you will be asked questions to further assess your Experience.
As part of the recruitment process. we may request references.
Department for Education do not cover the cost of travel to your interview/assessment unless otherwise stated.
Please note that at interview stage we may ask if you have any conflicts of interest to declare.
Candidates With Disabilities
As an employer we are committed to promoting and protecting the physical and mental health and wellbeing of all our colleagues and applicants. The Department for Education uses the Disability Confident scheme (formerly the Guaranteed Interview scheme) to help widen employment opportunities for disabled people. Applicants with disabilities who meet the essential criteria, as stated in the person specification, the Civil Service nationality requirements and indicate they are applying under the Disability Confident scheme will be guaranteed an interview.
Employment scheme for Veterans
The ‘Great Place to Work for Veterans scheme’ makes it easier for veterans to join the Civil Service. If you opt into the scheme and meet the minimum criteria, you’ll progress to the next stage for most roles – whether that’s an interview or an online test.
Other Information
We understand that you might use AI and other resources for your application; however, please ensure all information you provide is factually accurate, truthful, and original and doesn’t include ideas or work that isn’t your own. This is so that your application is authentically and credibly your own.
We reserve the right to raise the minimum pass mark in the event of a high volume or strong field of candidates.
Please be aware that this role can only be worked in the UK from the location options provided and not from overseas.
If successful and transferring from another Government Department a criminal record check maybe carried out.
In order to process applications without delay, we will be sending a Criminal Record Check to Disclosure and Barring Service on your behalf. However, we recognise in exceptional circumstance some candidates will want to send their completed forms direct. If you will be doing this, please advise Department of Education of your intention by emailing [email protected] stating the job reference number in the subject heading.
Department for Education do not cover the cost of travel to your interview/assessment unless otherwise stated.
A reserve list may be held for a period of 6 months from which further appointments can be made.
Candidates will be posted in merit order based upon location preference. Where more than one location is advertised you will be asked to state your preferred location.
New entrants are expected to join on the minimum of the pay band.
Applicants who are successful at interview will be, as part of pre-employment screening subject to a check on the Internal Fraud Database (IFD). This check will provide information about employees who have been dismissed for fraud or dishonesty offences. This check also applies to employees who resign or otherwise leave before being dismissed for fraud or dishonesty had their employment continued. Any applicant’s details held on the IFD will be refused employment.
Reasonable adjustment
If a person with disabilities is put at a substantial disadvantage compared to a non-disabled person, we have a duty to make reasonable changes to our processes. If you need a change to be made so that you can make your application, you should complete the “Assistance required” section in the “Additional requirements” page of your application form to tell us what changes or help you might need further on in the recruitment process. For instance, you may need wheelchair access at interview, or if you’re deaf, a Language Service Professional.
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
Security
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Nationality requirements
This Job Is Broadly Open To The Following Groups:
- UK nationals
- nationals of the Republic of Ireland
- nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
- nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window)
- nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
- individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
- Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service
Working for the Civil Service
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window).
This vacancy is part of the Great Place to Work for Veterans (opens in a new window) initiative.
Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.
Contact point for applicants
Job Contact :
- Name : SCS Recruitment Team
- Email : [email protected]
- Email : [email protected]
The Department for Education’s recruitment processes are underpinned by the Civil Service Commissioners Recruitment Principles, which outlines that selection for appointment is made on merit based on fair and open competition. You have the right to complain if you feel a department has breached the requirement of the Recruitment Principles. In the first instance, you should raise the matter directly with the department concerned via [email protected]. If you are not satisfied with the response, you may bring your complaint to the Commission. For further information on bringing a complaint to the Civil Service Commission please visit their web pages
This role is available anywhere in England with travel to sites in England required. Location options will be discussed with the successful applicant at the point of offer
Job Summary
Come and join the Department and take a leading role in shaping schools policy, working closely with policymakers to develop innovative strategies and programmes that drive meaningful change in schools.
This new secondment offers a unique opportunity for an experienced school leader to contribute directly to policy development and sector engagement. You will bring your expertise, insight, and leadership to help inform the Government’s Opportunity Mission—breaking down barriers to opportunity and ensuring every child can achieve their full potential. We are looking to appoint one or more secondees into the department for between 6-12 months.
This role is available anywhere in England with travel to sites in England required. Location options will be discussed with the successful applicant at the point of offer
Job Description
Open to leaders in primary and secondary school settings, this role will see you working closely with Civil Servants and education leaders on key priority projects in areas such as raising standards and delivering RISE universal priorities, promoting best practice, and supporting schools to achieve excellence
You Will:
You Will:
Applicants will be assessed against the following criteria. You will need to demonstrate that you meet all the essential criteria through your CV and supporting statement.
Essential Criteria
You will need to demonstrate evidence of:
You Should Also Demonstrate:
You must not have been previously barred from being a proprietor or head teacher of a school under section 128 of the Education and Skills Act 2008.
To preserve the separation of Ofsted’s inspection you may not also be a serving Ofsted inspector
Qualifications
You must hold a recognised teaching qualification which has resulted in Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
We offer flexible working arrangements, such as job sharing, term-time working, flexi-time and compressed hours.
Selection process details
Application
To apply for this role, you need to complete an online application via the Civil Service Jobs portal. Applications will be accepted until 23:55 on 30th of April 2025
You Will Be Asked To Provide:
If you are unable to apply online, please contact [email protected] in the first instance. Please visit our career site for further information on the Civil Service application process.
Please Note The Following:
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a formal panel interview on w/c 5th of May 2025. This will be face to face in Sanctuary Buildings, London.
You will be asked to prepare a presentation for the interview (further information will be shared with shortlisted candidates) and you will be asked questions to further assess your Experience.
As part of the recruitment process. we may request references.
Department for Education do not cover the cost of travel to your interview/assessment unless otherwise stated.
Please note that at interview stage we may ask if you have any conflicts of interest to declare.
Candidates With Disabilities
As an employer we are committed to promoting and protecting the physical and mental health and wellbeing of all our colleagues and applicants. The Department for Education uses the Disability Confident scheme (formerly the Guaranteed Interview scheme) to help widen employment opportunities for disabled people. Applicants with disabilities who meet the essential criteria, as stated in the person specification, the Civil Service nationality requirements and indicate they are applying under the Disability Confident scheme will be guaranteed an interview.
Employment scheme for Veterans
The ‘Great Place to Work for Veterans scheme’ makes it easier for veterans to join the Civil Service. If you opt into the scheme and meet the minimum criteria, you’ll progress to the next stage for most roles – whether that’s an interview or an online test.
Other Information
We understand that you might use AI and other resources for your application; however, please ensure all information you provide is factually accurate, truthful, and original and doesn’t include ideas or work that isn’t your own. This is so that your application is authentically and credibly your own.
We reserve the right to raise the minimum pass mark in the event of a high volume or strong field of candidates.
Please be aware that this role can only be worked in the UK from the location options provided and not from overseas.
If successful and transferring from another Government Department a criminal record check maybe carried out.
In order to process applications without delay, we will be sending a Criminal Record Check to Disclosure and Barring Service on your behalf. However, we recognise in exceptional circumstance some candidates will want to send their completed forms direct. If you will be doing this, please advise Department of Education of your intention by emailing [email protected] stating the job reference number in the subject heading.
Department for Education do not cover the cost of travel to your interview/assessment unless otherwise stated.
A reserve list may be held for a period of 6 months from which further appointments can be made.
Candidates will be posted in merit order based upon location preference. Where more than one location is advertised you will be asked to state your preferred location.
New entrants are expected to join on the minimum of the pay band.
Applicants who are successful at interview will be, as part of pre-employment screening subject to a check on the Internal Fraud Database (IFD). This check will provide information about employees who have been dismissed for fraud or dishonesty offences. This check also applies to employees who resign or otherwise leave before being dismissed for fraud or dishonesty had their employment continued. Any applicant’s details held on the IFD will be refused employment.
Reasonable adjustment
If a person with disabilities is put at a substantial disadvantage compared to a non-disabled person, we have a duty to make reasonable changes to our processes. If you need a change to be made so that you can make your application, you should complete the “Assistance required” section in the “Additional requirements” page of your application form to tell us what changes or help you might need further on in the recruitment process. For instance, you may need wheelchair access at interview, or if you’re deaf, a Language Service Professional.
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
Security
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Nationality requirements
This Job Is Broadly Open To The Following Groups:
Working for the Civil Service
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window).
This vacancy is part of the Great Place to Work for Veterans (opens in a new window) initiative.
Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.
Contact point for applicants
Job Contact :
The Department for Education’s recruitment processes are underpinned by the Civil Service Commissioners Recruitment Principles, which outlines that selection for appointment is made on merit based on fair and open competition. You have the right to complain if you feel a department has breached the requirement of the Recruitment Principles. In the first instance, you should raise the matter directly with the department concerned via [email protected]. If you are not satisfied with the response, you may bring your complaint to the Commission. For further information on bringing a complaint to the Civil Service Commission please visit their web pages
Job Summary
Come and join the Department and take a leading role in shaping schools policy, working closely with policymakers to develop innovative strategies and programmes that drive meaningful change in schools.
This new secondment offers a unique opportunity for an experienced school leader to contribute directly to policy development and sector engagement. You will bring your expertise, insight, and leadership to help inform the Government’s Opportunity Mission—breaking down barriers to opportunity and ensuring every child can achieve their full potential. We are looking to appoint one or more secondees into the department for between 6-12 months.
This role is available anywhere in England with travel to sites in England required. Location options will be discussed with the successful applicant at the point of offer
Job Description
Open to leaders in primary and secondary school settings, this role will see you working closely with Civil Servants and education leaders on key priority projects in areas such as raising standards and delivering RISE universal priorities, promoting best practice, and supporting schools to achieve excellence
You Will:
- Work with teams within the department to develop strategies to promote high and rising standards and create a self-improving sector in key areas of policy.
- Provide insights into effective engagement approaches for teachers, headteachers and school staff across the sector.
- Identify the key challenges schools face and contribute to solutions through peer review, networking, and mentoring.
- Facilitate the dissemination of good practice and evidence-based approaches to support continuous improvement/policy development
You Will:
- Work with teams within the department to develop strategies to promote high and rising standards and create a self-improving sector in key areas of policy.
- Provide insights into effective engagement approaches for teachers, headteachers and school staff across the sector.
- Identify the key challenges schools face and contribute to solutions through peer review, networking, and mentoring.
- Facilitate the dissemination of good practice and evidence-based approaches to support continuous improvement/policy development
Applicants will be assessed against the following criteria. You will need to demonstrate that you meet all the essential criteria through your CV and supporting statement.
Essential Criteria
You will need to demonstrate evidence of:
- An exceptional track record of being a school leader in a primary or secondary school setting
- Deep and broad knowledge and understanding of school improvement practice that is grounded in robust evidence, and ability to translate this into system-level policy.
- Evidence of continued support to inclusive mainstream.
- Fostering strong professional relationships based on support and challenge that deliver change and hold others to account in an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.
- A highly skilled collaborator, adept at working across teams, influencing key stakeholders, and sharing best practice.
- A strong track record of working with disadvantaged children, driving initiatives that close attainment gaps, foster inclusion, and create opportunities for all.
You Should Also Demonstrate:
- A strategic understanding of school contexts, and an understanding of the key challenges in the sector
- An interest in data and digital to drive insight and improvement
- An awareness of the current changes taking place in education and an understanding of the key stakeholders in education including the various forms of support available.
You must not have been previously barred from being a proprietor or head teacher of a school under section 128 of the Education and Skills Act 2008.
To preserve the separation of Ofsted’s inspection you may not also be a serving Ofsted inspector
Qualifications
You must hold a recognised teaching qualification which has resulted in Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
We offer flexible working arrangements, such as job sharing, term-time working, flexi-time and compressed hours.
Selection process details
Application
To apply for this role, you need to complete an online application via the Civil Service Jobs portal. Applications will be accepted until 23:55 on 30th of April 2025
You Will Be Asked To Provide:
- A CV setting out your career history, with key responsibilities and achievements. Please ensure you have provided reasons for any gaps within the last two years
- A Statement of Suitability (no longer than 2 sides or 1,000 words) detailing ‘why should we consider you for this role’ (up to 500 words) and why you would like to work in the Department for Education (up to 500 words) and addressing your suitability against the key criteria. You can choose to outline any further information you believe is relevant for the role.
If you are unable to apply online, please contact [email protected] in the first instance. Please visit our career site for further information on the Civil Service application process.
Please Note The Following:
- We cannot accept applications submitted after the closing date.
- Applications will be assessed solely on the documentation provided.
- Please refer to the advert and checklist above to ensure you have provided everything requested.
- Applications will be acknowledged upon receipt.
- Feedback will only be given to candidates unsuccessful following interview.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a formal panel interview on w/c 5th of May 2025. This will be face to face in Sanctuary Buildings, London.
You will be asked to prepare a presentation for the interview (further information will be shared with shortlisted candidates) and you will be asked questions to further assess your Experience.
As part of the recruitment process. we may request references.
Department for Education do not cover the cost of travel to your interview/assessment unless otherwise stated.
Please note that at interview stage we may ask if you have any conflicts of interest to declare.
Candidates With Disabilities
As an employer we are committed to promoting and protecting the physical and mental health and wellbeing of all our colleagues and applicants. The Department for Education uses the Disability Confident scheme (formerly the Guaranteed Interview scheme) to help widen employment opportunities for disabled people. Applicants with disabilities who meet the essential criteria, as stated in the person specification, the Civil Service nationality requirements and indicate they are applying under the Disability Confident scheme will be guaranteed an interview.
Employment scheme for Veterans
The ‘Great Place to Work for Veterans scheme’ makes it easier for veterans to join the Civil Service. If you opt into the scheme and meet the minimum criteria, you’ll progress to the next stage for most roles – whether that’s an interview or an online test.
Other Information
We understand that you might use AI and other resources for your application; however, please ensure all information you provide is factually accurate, truthful, and original and doesn’t include ideas or work that isn’t your own. This is so that your application is authentically and credibly your own.
We reserve the right to raise the minimum pass mark in the event of a high volume or strong field of candidates.
Please be aware that this role can only be worked in the UK from the location options provided and not from overseas.
If successful and transferring from another Government Department a criminal record check maybe carried out.
In order to process applications without delay, we will be sending a Criminal Record Check to Disclosure and Barring Service on your behalf. However, we recognise in exceptional circumstance some candidates will want to send their completed forms direct. If you will be doing this, please advise Department of Education of your intention by emailing [email protected] stating the job reference number in the subject heading.
Department for Education do not cover the cost of travel to your interview/assessment unless otherwise stated.
A reserve list may be held for a period of 6 months from which further appointments can be made.
Candidates will be posted in merit order based upon location preference. Where more than one location is advertised you will be asked to state your preferred location.
New entrants are expected to join on the minimum of the pay band.
Applicants who are successful at interview will be, as part of pre-employment screening subject to a check on the Internal Fraud Database (IFD). This check will provide information about employees who have been dismissed for fraud or dishonesty offences. This check also applies to employees who resign or otherwise leave before being dismissed for fraud or dishonesty had their employment continued. Any applicant’s details held on the IFD will be refused employment.
Reasonable adjustment
If a person with disabilities is put at a substantial disadvantage compared to a non-disabled person, we have a duty to make reasonable changes to our processes. If you need a change to be made so that you can make your application, you should complete the “Assistance required” section in the “Additional requirements” page of your application form to tell us what changes or help you might need further on in the recruitment process. For instance, you may need wheelchair access at interview, or if you’re deaf, a Language Service Professional.
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
Security
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Nationality requirements
This Job Is Broadly Open To The Following Groups:
- UK nationals
- nationals of the Republic of Ireland
- nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
- nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window)
- nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
- individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
- Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service
Working for the Civil Service
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window).
This vacancy is part of the Great Place to Work for Veterans (opens in a new window) initiative.
Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.
Contact point for applicants
Job Contact :
- Name : SCS Recruitment Team
- Email : [email protected]
- Email : [email protected]
The Department for Education’s recruitment processes are underpinned by the Civil Service Commissioners Recruitment Principles, which outlines that selection for appointment is made on merit based on fair and open competition. You have the right to complain if you feel a department has breached the requirement of the Recruitment Principles. In the first instance, you should raise the matter directly with the department concerned via [email protected]. If you are not satisfied with the response, you may bring your complaint to the Commission. For further information on bringing a complaint to the Civil Service Commission please visit their web pages