Service Director Education - Local Authority

Job Title: Service Director: Education
Day Rate: Negotiable
Location: Doncaster / Hybrid working (2 days in the office)

We are seeking a visionary Service Director for our client, a local authority in Doncaster. This role will be within the Education area and will be to lead the strategic development and delivery of Doncaster’s education services. This critical leadership role will ensure the highest standards in educational provision, inclusion, and statutory compliance, driving sustained improvements in outcomes for children, young people, and their families.

• Provide strategic leadership for education across all school sectors, ensuring alignment with Doncaster’s 2030 vision and statutory responsibilities.
• Act as the statutory lead for education, maintaining strong partnerships with local, regional, and national education bodies.
• Oversee services supporting vulnerable learners, including the Virtual School, Educational Psychology, and Learning Provision Standards and Effectiveness.
• Lead the implementation of the inclusion strategy, ensuring equitable access to education for all children and young people.
• Monitor and hold educational providers accountable, ensuring compliance with the schools causing concern protocol and other regulatory frameworks.
• Ensure the effective discharge of statutory duties related to SEND, safeguarding, and school improvement.
• Drive the development and delivery of Doncaster’s Cultural and Heritage education offer, enriching the curriculum and community engagement.
• Lead the continued development of traded services for schools through Buy Doncaster, ensuring quality and value.

• Qualified teacher and headteacher status, or equivalent.
• Leadership and management qualification.
• Demonstrated commitment to continuing professional development.
• Extensive senior leadership experience in education and children’s services.
• Strong understanding of statutory education duties, safeguarding, and inclusion.
• Proven ability to manage complex budgets and lead multi-disciplinary teams.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including schools, families, and regulatory bodies.

• Competitive salary package.
• Flexible hybrid working arrangements.
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• Involvement in strategic initiatives with lasting community impact.

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and motivation for applying to this role.