Job ID: S-U-1581 - Head of Learning – Academic

At OFG we believe in creating a better work life balanceJob Title: Head of Learning – AcademicLocation: Bricklehurst Manor School, Stonegate, East Sussex, TN5 7ELSalary: 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 finishContract: Permanent | Term Time OnlyStart: October 2026UK Applicants Only — this role does not offer sponsorship.About the RoleWe 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 DoingLead 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 ForQTS or relevant vocational teaching qualification requiredExperience 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 pressureDriving licence required About the SchoolBricklehurst 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