Operations Director Job Description Application deadline: 2nd January 2026 Purpose of the Role The Operations Director provides senior operational leadership and strategic oversight across a defined portfolio, ensuring consistent high-quality delivery, strong regulatory compliance, and excellent outcomes for children and families. This role strengthens Kids Planet's national operational capability as the organisation continues to scale, ensuring clear governance, aligned practice, and sustained improvement across all nurseries. The role works closely with Childcare Directors, Area Managers, Risk & Compliance Team, Training and Integrations Director, EYAs, and Internal Training to provide cohesive, operationally driven leadership. Key Responsibilities 1. Operational Leadership & Performance Lead operational excellence across the group through strong line management of Childcare Directors. Drive performance improvements linked to occupancy, staffing stability, family experience, and commercial KPIs. Ensure settings consistently deliver the Kids Planet operational model and values. Provide the right level of support and challenge to settings, ensuring concerns are escalated and addressed quickly. Monitor KPIs (occupancy, staffing, compliance, financials, parent satisfaction) and drive action where risks emerge. 2. Quality, Practice & Continuous Improvement Ensure consistent implementation of the Framework for Excellence, pedagogy, curriculum, and leadership expectations. Work collaboratively with the Early Years and Specialist teams to embed practice and strengthen weaker or newly acquired settings. Support QIV cycles, internal audits, and action planning, ensuring improvements are sustained. Promote a culture of reflective practice, high expectations, and continuous improvement. 3. Safeguarding, Risk & Compliance Ensure effective oversight and governance of safeguarding practices, DSL development, and compliance frameworks across all nurseries. Provide senior operational leadership on safeguarding expectations, culture, and organisational standards. Monitor, audit, and review safeguarding and compliance systems to ensure ongoing inspection readiness and regulatory compliance. Provide high-level advice, escalation support, and operational decision-making in safeguarding matters. Liaise with external agencies (Ofsted, LADO, Local Authorities, etc.) where required, ensuring clear communication and accountability. Oversee risk management processes, ensuring that mitigation plans are effective, embedded, and followed through. Ensure learning from incidents, audits, and QIVs is translated into practice improvements across settings. Coordinate and maintain the Operational Safeguarding Risk Register (To be introduced), escalating risks appropriately to SLT and ensuring site-level actions are implemented. 4. Safeguarding Project Ownership Lead the implementation and rollout of Safeguarding Systems across the organisation, ensuring clear project governance, timelines, training, and adoption. Oversee data standards, user access, and integration into safeguarding and compliance reporting systems. 5. People Leadership & Workforce Stability Provide strong, values-led leadership to Childcare Directors, ensuring clarity, accountability, and professional development. Oversee workforce planning, including staffing pipelines, leadership succession, and stability strategies. Support the People Team to embed safer recruitment, consistent induction, and best-practice employee compliance. Ensure managers receive high-quality coaching and support to lead effective teams. 6. Acquisitions, Integrations & Growth Work with the Training and Integrations Teams to ensure new nurseries experience a structured and high-quality onboarding. Lead the operational oversight of the integration plan in partnership with Integrations Manager, ensuring compliance resets, system adoption, and cultural alignment. Support due diligence with operational insight into risks, people structures, quality, and readiness. 7. Compliance, Audit & Regulatory Readiness Ensure settings maintain regulatory compliance and always remain inspection-ready. Oversee follow-up actions from internal audits, QIVs, safeguarding reviews, and H&S assessments. Ensure consistent policy implementation and adapt practice in response to sector or regulatory changes (e.g., Ofsted framework updates). Lead operational responses to regulatory enforcement, ensuring robust action planning and sustained improvement. 8. Family Experience & Reputation Champion excellence in parent partnership, communication, and overall family experience. Oversee show-round conversion, complaints handling, and reputation management. Work with Marketing on local activation, occupancy growth, and site-level brand visibility. Skills & Competencies Strong leadership and people management Deep operational understanding of early years delivery Strong safeguarding knowledge and governance capability Ability to analyse risk and make informed, timely decisions High emotional intelligence and ability to lead through complexity Strong project management (especially for CPOMS rollout) Ability to interpret data, spot patterns, and act decisively Collaboration across multiple central and operational teams Resilient, solution-focused, and highly organised Reporting Lines Reports to: Chief Operating Officer Line manages: Childcare Directors, and may have project responsibility for cross-functional teams Works closely with: Training & Integrations Director, EY Teams, Internal Training, Risk & Compliance, People, Marketing, Estates, Finance, Tech & Data teams KPIs / Success Measures Strong and improving safeguarding culture across all settings Consistent operational performance and inspection outcomes Reduced safeguarding/compliance themes due to early operational intervention Clear governance and management of risk High staff retention and leadership capability Occupancy and family experience improvements across portfolio Why become an Operations Director with Kids Planet? A supportive, friendly team. Great Benefits Package Fast paced growing business with lots of scope for progression Great Place to Work Certified 2025/26 Ranked UK Best Workplaces for Women 2025 Crowned NMT's Large Nursery Group of the Year, for the second-year running 80% Childcare Discount - T&Cs apply. What's in it for you? Free breakfast, lunches and healthy snacks including fresh fruit. Accredited training with the KP Academy. Enhanced Maternity, Paternity Fertility and Adoption leave. Regular staff rewards. Team appreciation events. Long service awards. Dedicated wellbeing package. Highly discounted childcare. A day off for your birthday. Life Insurance cover and access to a health plan. Applications close on 2nd January 2026. Early applications are encouraged.
Dec 24, 2025
Full time
Operations Director Job Description Application deadline: 2nd January 2026 Purpose of the Role The Operations Director provides senior operational leadership and strategic oversight across a defined portfolio, ensuring consistent high-quality delivery, strong regulatory compliance, and excellent outcomes for children and families. This role strengthens Kids Planet's national operational capability as the organisation continues to scale, ensuring clear governance, aligned practice, and sustained improvement across all nurseries. The role works closely with Childcare Directors, Area Managers, Risk & Compliance Team, Training and Integrations Director, EYAs, and Internal Training to provide cohesive, operationally driven leadership. Key Responsibilities 1. Operational Leadership & Performance Lead operational excellence across the group through strong line management of Childcare Directors. Drive performance improvements linked to occupancy, staffing stability, family experience, and commercial KPIs. Ensure settings consistently deliver the Kids Planet operational model and values. Provide the right level of support and challenge to settings, ensuring concerns are escalated and addressed quickly. Monitor KPIs (occupancy, staffing, compliance, financials, parent satisfaction) and drive action where risks emerge. 2. Quality, Practice & Continuous Improvement Ensure consistent implementation of the Framework for Excellence, pedagogy, curriculum, and leadership expectations. Work collaboratively with the Early Years and Specialist teams to embed practice and strengthen weaker or newly acquired settings. Support QIV cycles, internal audits, and action planning, ensuring improvements are sustained. Promote a culture of reflective practice, high expectations, and continuous improvement. 3. Safeguarding, Risk & Compliance Ensure effective oversight and governance of safeguarding practices, DSL development, and compliance frameworks across all nurseries. Provide senior operational leadership on safeguarding expectations, culture, and organisational standards. Monitor, audit, and review safeguarding and compliance systems to ensure ongoing inspection readiness and regulatory compliance. Provide high-level advice, escalation support, and operational decision-making in safeguarding matters. Liaise with external agencies (Ofsted, LADO, Local Authorities, etc.) where required, ensuring clear communication and accountability. Oversee risk management processes, ensuring that mitigation plans are effective, embedded, and followed through. Ensure learning from incidents, audits, and QIVs is translated into practice improvements across settings. Coordinate and maintain the Operational Safeguarding Risk Register (To be introduced), escalating risks appropriately to SLT and ensuring site-level actions are implemented. 4. Safeguarding Project Ownership Lead the implementation and rollout of Safeguarding Systems across the organisation, ensuring clear project governance, timelines, training, and adoption. Oversee data standards, user access, and integration into safeguarding and compliance reporting systems. 5. People Leadership & Workforce Stability Provide strong, values-led leadership to Childcare Directors, ensuring clarity, accountability, and professional development. Oversee workforce planning, including staffing pipelines, leadership succession, and stability strategies. Support the People Team to embed safer recruitment, consistent induction, and best-practice employee compliance. Ensure managers receive high-quality coaching and support to lead effective teams. 6. Acquisitions, Integrations & Growth Work with the Training and Integrations Teams to ensure new nurseries experience a structured and high-quality onboarding. Lead the operational oversight of the integration plan in partnership with Integrations Manager, ensuring compliance resets, system adoption, and cultural alignment. Support due diligence with operational insight into risks, people structures, quality, and readiness. 7. Compliance, Audit & Regulatory Readiness Ensure settings maintain regulatory compliance and always remain inspection-ready. Oversee follow-up actions from internal audits, QIVs, safeguarding reviews, and H&S assessments. Ensure consistent policy implementation and adapt practice in response to sector or regulatory changes (e.g., Ofsted framework updates). Lead operational responses to regulatory enforcement, ensuring robust action planning and sustained improvement. 8. Family Experience & Reputation Champion excellence in parent partnership, communication, and overall family experience. Oversee show-round conversion, complaints handling, and reputation management. Work with Marketing on local activation, occupancy growth, and site-level brand visibility. Skills & Competencies Strong leadership and people management Deep operational understanding of early years delivery Strong safeguarding knowledge and governance capability Ability to analyse risk and make informed, timely decisions High emotional intelligence and ability to lead through complexity Strong project management (especially for CPOMS rollout) Ability to interpret data, spot patterns, and act decisively Collaboration across multiple central and operational teams Resilient, solution-focused, and highly organised Reporting Lines Reports to: Chief Operating Officer Line manages: Childcare Directors, and may have project responsibility for cross-functional teams Works closely with: Training & Integrations Director, EY Teams, Internal Training, Risk & Compliance, People, Marketing, Estates, Finance, Tech & Data teams KPIs / Success Measures Strong and improving safeguarding culture across all settings Consistent operational performance and inspection outcomes Reduced safeguarding/compliance themes due to early operational intervention Clear governance and management of risk High staff retention and leadership capability Occupancy and family experience improvements across portfolio Why become an Operations Director with Kids Planet? A supportive, friendly team. Great Benefits Package Fast paced growing business with lots of scope for progression Great Place to Work Certified 2025/26 Ranked UK Best Workplaces for Women 2025 Crowned NMT's Large Nursery Group of the Year, for the second-year running 80% Childcare Discount - T&Cs apply. What's in it for you? Free breakfast, lunches and healthy snacks including fresh fruit. Accredited training with the KP Academy. Enhanced Maternity, Paternity Fertility and Adoption leave. Regular staff rewards. Team appreciation events. Long service awards. Dedicated wellbeing package. Highly discounted childcare. A day off for your birthday. Life Insurance cover and access to a health plan. Applications close on 2nd January 2026. Early applications are encouraged.
POLICY OFFICER - EARLY YEARS AND PRIMARY EDUCATION Based in the NEU Head Office (London, WC1H 9BD) Full-time, permanent Commencing salary £54,748 per annum The National Education Union is a powerful force for change in education, representing 500,000 teachers, lecturers, support staff, and leaders. As we undertake an extensive staffing review, this is an exciting time to join us on our journey to becoming a more agile, strategic, and powerfully coordinated trade union-ready to meet the challenges of the future and drive lasting change in education. We're seeking an engaged and experienced individual to contribute to the Union's policy work concerning primary and early years education, as well as the workplace experiences and professional expertise of our primary and early years members. Working under the direction of, and assisting, the Senior Policy Managers, you will support the team in preparing policy statements, briefings, commentaries, and research papers, as well as conducting surveys, including analysis and report writing. You will contribute to policy work on primary and early years education, providing policy input and guidance as required, including drafting statements and responses on the primary curriculum, its assessment, and the early years phase of education. You will analyse information and data, drawing on members' professional experiences in the workplace, to develop policies, guidance, and recommendations. We are looking for applicants with policy or research experience in early years and primary education, including curriculum and assessment in this phase. You will also have recent, relevant experience in a policy or research environment, including contributing to policy development and formulating policy recommendations. You must have demonstrable knowledge of child-centred early years education and primary practice, as well as the principles of inclusive and equitable education. You should also be able to produce clear and detailed written communications, including policy advice, policy statements, briefings, research summaries, campaign materials, and consultation responses. In addition to salary, we offer good conditions including 33 days' annual leave plus Christmas closure days and a defined benefit pension scheme. Salary and benefits are pro-rata for part-time applicants. Further details can be downloaded from our website via the button below where applicants will be able to complete an online application on our recruitment portal. Closing date is mid-day 13 January 2026. We welcome applications from individuals seeking part-time, job-share or other flexible working arrangements. THE UNION IS FUNDAMENTALLY COMMITTED TO EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES IN ITS POLICIES AND PRACTICE
Dec 22, 2025
Full time
POLICY OFFICER - EARLY YEARS AND PRIMARY EDUCATION Based in the NEU Head Office (London, WC1H 9BD) Full-time, permanent Commencing salary £54,748 per annum The National Education Union is a powerful force for change in education, representing 500,000 teachers, lecturers, support staff, and leaders. As we undertake an extensive staffing review, this is an exciting time to join us on our journey to becoming a more agile, strategic, and powerfully coordinated trade union-ready to meet the challenges of the future and drive lasting change in education. We're seeking an engaged and experienced individual to contribute to the Union's policy work concerning primary and early years education, as well as the workplace experiences and professional expertise of our primary and early years members. Working under the direction of, and assisting, the Senior Policy Managers, you will support the team in preparing policy statements, briefings, commentaries, and research papers, as well as conducting surveys, including analysis and report writing. You will contribute to policy work on primary and early years education, providing policy input and guidance as required, including drafting statements and responses on the primary curriculum, its assessment, and the early years phase of education. You will analyse information and data, drawing on members' professional experiences in the workplace, to develop policies, guidance, and recommendations. We are looking for applicants with policy or research experience in early years and primary education, including curriculum and assessment in this phase. You will also have recent, relevant experience in a policy or research environment, including contributing to policy development and formulating policy recommendations. You must have demonstrable knowledge of child-centred early years education and primary practice, as well as the principles of inclusive and equitable education. You should also be able to produce clear and detailed written communications, including policy advice, policy statements, briefings, research summaries, campaign materials, and consultation responses. In addition to salary, we offer good conditions including 33 days' annual leave plus Christmas closure days and a defined benefit pension scheme. Salary and benefits are pro-rata for part-time applicants. Further details can be downloaded from our website via the button below where applicants will be able to complete an online application on our recruitment portal. Closing date is mid-day 13 January 2026. We welcome applications from individuals seeking part-time, job-share or other flexible working arrangements. THE UNION IS FUNDAMENTALLY COMMITTED TO EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES IN ITS POLICIES AND PRACTICE
POLICY OFFICER - SECONDARY EDUCATION Based in the NEU Head Office (London, WC1H 9BD) Full-time, permanent Commencing salary £54,748 per annum The National Education Union is a powerful force for change in education, representing 500,000 teachers, lecturers, support staff, and leaders. As we undertake an extensive staffing review, this is an exciting time to join us on our journey to becoming a more agile, strategic, and powerfully coordinated trade union-ready to meet the challenges of the future and drive lasting change in education. We are seeking an engaged and experienced individual to work on policy issues related to secondary education, including the workplace experiences and professional expertise of secondary and post-16 teachers and support staff, as well as the secondary curriculum and its assessment. Working under the direction of, and assisting, the Senior Policy Managers in the Department, you will support the team in preparing policy statements, briefings, commentaries, and research papers, as well as conducting surveys, including analysis and report writing. You will provide policy support in other areas as required, for example, examinations and qualifications within this phase, and the needs of different learners, such as students eligible for FSM. You will also develop constructive relationships with external bodies, including Government, relevant NGOs, campaign groups such as Times Commission, Secondary Umbrella Group, and other coalitions. We are seeking applicants with policy or research experience in 11-18 education and the issues affecting secondary teachers. You will also have recent, relevant experience in a policy or research environment, including contributing to policy development and formulating policy recommendations. You must have demonstrable knowledge of secondary education and professional practice, as well as the principles of inclusive and equitable education. You should also be able to produce clear and detailed written communications, including policy advice, policy statements, briefings, research summaries, training and campaign materials, and consultation responses. In addition to salary, we offer good conditions including 33 days' annual leave plus Christmas closure days and a defined benefit pension scheme. Salary and benefits are pro-rata for part-time applicants. Further details can be downloaded from our website via the button below where applicants will be able to complete an online application on our recruitment portal. Closing date is mid-day 13 January 2026. We welcome applications from individuals seeking part-time, job-share or other flexible working arrangements. THE UNION IS FUNDAMENTALLY COMMITTED TO EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES IN ITS POLICIES AND PRACTICE
Dec 22, 2025
Full time
POLICY OFFICER - SECONDARY EDUCATION Based in the NEU Head Office (London, WC1H 9BD) Full-time, permanent Commencing salary £54,748 per annum The National Education Union is a powerful force for change in education, representing 500,000 teachers, lecturers, support staff, and leaders. As we undertake an extensive staffing review, this is an exciting time to join us on our journey to becoming a more agile, strategic, and powerfully coordinated trade union-ready to meet the challenges of the future and drive lasting change in education. We are seeking an engaged and experienced individual to work on policy issues related to secondary education, including the workplace experiences and professional expertise of secondary and post-16 teachers and support staff, as well as the secondary curriculum and its assessment. Working under the direction of, and assisting, the Senior Policy Managers in the Department, you will support the team in preparing policy statements, briefings, commentaries, and research papers, as well as conducting surveys, including analysis and report writing. You will provide policy support in other areas as required, for example, examinations and qualifications within this phase, and the needs of different learners, such as students eligible for FSM. You will also develop constructive relationships with external bodies, including Government, relevant NGOs, campaign groups such as Times Commission, Secondary Umbrella Group, and other coalitions. We are seeking applicants with policy or research experience in 11-18 education and the issues affecting secondary teachers. You will also have recent, relevant experience in a policy or research environment, including contributing to policy development and formulating policy recommendations. You must have demonstrable knowledge of secondary education and professional practice, as well as the principles of inclusive and equitable education. You should also be able to produce clear and detailed written communications, including policy advice, policy statements, briefings, research summaries, training and campaign materials, and consultation responses. In addition to salary, we offer good conditions including 33 days' annual leave plus Christmas closure days and a defined benefit pension scheme. Salary and benefits are pro-rata for part-time applicants. Further details can be downloaded from our website via the button below where applicants will be able to complete an online application on our recruitment portal. Closing date is mid-day 13 January 2026. We welcome applications from individuals seeking part-time, job-share or other flexible working arrangements. THE UNION IS FUNDAMENTALLY COMMITTED TO EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES IN ITS POLICIES AND PRACTICE
Political Assistant Based in the NEU Head Office (London, WC1H 9BD) Full-time, permanent Commencing salary £46,364 per annum The National Education Union is a powerful force for change in education, representing 500,000 teachers, lecturers, support staff, and leaders. As we have recently completed an extensive staffing review, this is an exciting time to join us on our journey to becoming a more agile, strategic, and powerfully coordinated trade union-ready to meet the challenges of the future and drive lasting change in education. We are seeking a dedicated and politically astute individual to work with the Senior Political Officer and Political Officers to advance the NEU's political strategy. This is a new post in the staffing structure. Reporting to the Senior Political Officer, you will monitor the Political Engagement budget, including processing invoices, reconciliation, monitoring, analysis, and reporting, as well as coordinating budget planning and drafting budget submissions. You will provide organisational and logistical support to the NEU's political activities, including APPG meetings, the party conferences and provide organisational and logistical support to the NEU Councillors and NEU Governors networks. We are seeking applicants with a good understanding of campaigning and political work, with the ability to operate a budget management system and provide management information and reports in a range of formats. Applicants should be able to evaluate information quickly in order to respond effectively to a range of enquiries within established guidelines, and to engage with and work in partnership with local activists. You must have strong administrative and office skills, including good typing ability with a high standard of spelling, grammar, and accuracy. You will also need good IT skills, including proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite, digital technology, websites, and other electronic media, together with other IT applications necessary for the effective performance of the role. In addition to salary, we offer good conditions including 33 days' annual leave plus Christmas closure days and a defined benefit pension scheme. Salary and benefits are pro-rata for part-time applicants. Further details can be downloaded from our website via the button blow, where applicants will be able to complete an online application on our recruitment portal. Closing date is mid-day Tuesday 6 January 2026. We welcome applications from individuals seeking part-time, job-share or other flexible working arrangements. THE UNION IS FUNDAMENTALLY COMMITTED TO EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES IN ITS POLICIES AND PRACTICE.
Dec 22, 2025
Full time
Political Assistant Based in the NEU Head Office (London, WC1H 9BD) Full-time, permanent Commencing salary £46,364 per annum The National Education Union is a powerful force for change in education, representing 500,000 teachers, lecturers, support staff, and leaders. As we have recently completed an extensive staffing review, this is an exciting time to join us on our journey to becoming a more agile, strategic, and powerfully coordinated trade union-ready to meet the challenges of the future and drive lasting change in education. We are seeking a dedicated and politically astute individual to work with the Senior Political Officer and Political Officers to advance the NEU's political strategy. This is a new post in the staffing structure. Reporting to the Senior Political Officer, you will monitor the Political Engagement budget, including processing invoices, reconciliation, monitoring, analysis, and reporting, as well as coordinating budget planning and drafting budget submissions. You will provide organisational and logistical support to the NEU's political activities, including APPG meetings, the party conferences and provide organisational and logistical support to the NEU Councillors and NEU Governors networks. We are seeking applicants with a good understanding of campaigning and political work, with the ability to operate a budget management system and provide management information and reports in a range of formats. Applicants should be able to evaluate information quickly in order to respond effectively to a range of enquiries within established guidelines, and to engage with and work in partnership with local activists. You must have strong administrative and office skills, including good typing ability with a high standard of spelling, grammar, and accuracy. You will also need good IT skills, including proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite, digital technology, websites, and other electronic media, together with other IT applications necessary for the effective performance of the role. In addition to salary, we offer good conditions including 33 days' annual leave plus Christmas closure days and a defined benefit pension scheme. Salary and benefits are pro-rata for part-time applicants. Further details can be downloaded from our website via the button blow, where applicants will be able to complete an online application on our recruitment portal. Closing date is mid-day Tuesday 6 January 2026. We welcome applications from individuals seeking part-time, job-share or other flexible working arrangements. THE UNION IS FUNDAMENTALLY COMMITTED TO EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES IN ITS POLICIES AND PRACTICE.
SENIOR REGIONAL SUPPORT OFFICER Based in the NEU South West Region (Exeter, EX2 7FW) Permanent, full-time Commencing salary £58,983 per annum The National Education Union is a powerful force for change in education, representing 500,000 teachers, lecturers, support staff, and leaders. As we undertake an extensive staffing review, this is an exciting time to join us on our journey to becoming a more agile, strategic, and powerfully coordinated trade union-ready to meet the challenges of the future and drive lasting change in education. We are seeking to recruit a Senior Regional Support Officer (SRSO) who will contribute to the strength of the Union and to the priorities for supporting, engaging and involving members, through the management of a team of regional support officers in the region. Having oversight and responsibility for the assessment and allocation of casework referrals and acting as an escalation point for complex casework and complaints to regional support officers. We are looking for applicants who can motivate, develop and support a team individually and as a group; deal with escalated issues and complaints; assist in relevant areas of research on priority issues for the Union regionally; undertake casework research, support and management up to a hearing; and manage personal injury casework. The role of Senior Regional Support Officer is an office-based role, and the NEU also operates a Blended Working Arrangement Policy which means colleagues can usually work from home up to 2 days per week, subject to business needs. In addition to salary, we offer good conditions including 35 days' annual leave plus Christmas closure days and a defined benefit pension scheme. Salary and benefits are pro-rata for part-time applicants. Further details can be downloaded from our website via the button below where applicants will be able to complete an online application on our recruitment portal. Closing date is mid-day Wednesday 14 January 2026. We welcome applications from individuals seeking part-time, job-share or other flexible working arrangements. THE UNION IS FUNDAMENTALLY COMMITTED TO EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES IN ITS POLICIES AND PRACTICE
Dec 22, 2025
Full time
SENIOR REGIONAL SUPPORT OFFICER Based in the NEU South West Region (Exeter, EX2 7FW) Permanent, full-time Commencing salary £58,983 per annum The National Education Union is a powerful force for change in education, representing 500,000 teachers, lecturers, support staff, and leaders. As we undertake an extensive staffing review, this is an exciting time to join us on our journey to becoming a more agile, strategic, and powerfully coordinated trade union-ready to meet the challenges of the future and drive lasting change in education. We are seeking to recruit a Senior Regional Support Officer (SRSO) who will contribute to the strength of the Union and to the priorities for supporting, engaging and involving members, through the management of a team of regional support officers in the region. Having oversight and responsibility for the assessment and allocation of casework referrals and acting as an escalation point for complex casework and complaints to regional support officers. We are looking for applicants who can motivate, develop and support a team individually and as a group; deal with escalated issues and complaints; assist in relevant areas of research on priority issues for the Union regionally; undertake casework research, support and management up to a hearing; and manage personal injury casework. The role of Senior Regional Support Officer is an office-based role, and the NEU also operates a Blended Working Arrangement Policy which means colleagues can usually work from home up to 2 days per week, subject to business needs. In addition to salary, we offer good conditions including 35 days' annual leave plus Christmas closure days and a defined benefit pension scheme. Salary and benefits are pro-rata for part-time applicants. Further details can be downloaded from our website via the button below where applicants will be able to complete an online application on our recruitment portal. Closing date is mid-day Wednesday 14 January 2026. We welcome applications from individuals seeking part-time, job-share or other flexible working arrangements. THE UNION IS FUNDAMENTALLY COMMITTED TO EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES IN ITS POLICIES AND PRACTICE
SENIOR REGIONAL SUPPORT OFFICER Based in the NEU Eastern Region (Newmarket, CB8 8GY) Permanent, full-time Commencing salary £58,983 per annum The National Education Union is a powerful force for change in education, representing 500,000 teachers, lecturers, support staff, and leaders. As we undertake an extensive staffing review, this is an exciting time to join us on our journey to becoming a more agile, strategic, and powerfully coordinated trade union-ready to meet the challenges of the future and drive lasting change in education. We are seeking to recruit a Senior Regional Support Officer (SRSO) who will contribute to the strength of the Union and to the priorities for supporting, engaging and involving members, through the management of a team of regional support officers in the region. Having oversight and responsibility for the assessment and allocation of casework referrals and acting as an escalation point for complex casework and complaints to regional support officers. We are looking for applicants who can motivate, develop and support a team individually and as a group; deal with escalated issues and complaints; assist in relevant areas of research on priority issues for the Union regionally; undertake casework research, support and management up to a hearing; and manage personal injury casework. The role of Senior Regional Support Officer is an office-based role, and the NEU also operates a Blended Working Arrangement Policy which means colleagues can usually work from home up to 2 days per week, subject to business needs. In addition to salary, we offer good conditions including 35 days' annual leave plus Christmas closure days and a defined benefit pension scheme. Salary and benefits are pro-rata for part-time applicants. Further details can be downloaded from our website via the button below where applicants will be able to complete an online application on our recruitment portal. Closing date is mid-day Wednesday 14 January 2026. We welcome applications from individuals seeking part-time, job-share or other flexible working arrangements. THE UNION IS FUNDAMENTALLY COMMITTED TO EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES IN ITS POLICIES AND PRACTICE
Dec 22, 2025
Full time
SENIOR REGIONAL SUPPORT OFFICER Based in the NEU Eastern Region (Newmarket, CB8 8GY) Permanent, full-time Commencing salary £58,983 per annum The National Education Union is a powerful force for change in education, representing 500,000 teachers, lecturers, support staff, and leaders. As we undertake an extensive staffing review, this is an exciting time to join us on our journey to becoming a more agile, strategic, and powerfully coordinated trade union-ready to meet the challenges of the future and drive lasting change in education. We are seeking to recruit a Senior Regional Support Officer (SRSO) who will contribute to the strength of the Union and to the priorities for supporting, engaging and involving members, through the management of a team of regional support officers in the region. Having oversight and responsibility for the assessment and allocation of casework referrals and acting as an escalation point for complex casework and complaints to regional support officers. We are looking for applicants who can motivate, develop and support a team individually and as a group; deal with escalated issues and complaints; assist in relevant areas of research on priority issues for the Union regionally; undertake casework research, support and management up to a hearing; and manage personal injury casework. The role of Senior Regional Support Officer is an office-based role, and the NEU also operates a Blended Working Arrangement Policy which means colleagues can usually work from home up to 2 days per week, subject to business needs. In addition to salary, we offer good conditions including 35 days' annual leave plus Christmas closure days and a defined benefit pension scheme. Salary and benefits are pro-rata for part-time applicants. Further details can be downloaded from our website via the button below where applicants will be able to complete an online application on our recruitment portal. Closing date is mid-day Wednesday 14 January 2026. We welcome applications from individuals seeking part-time, job-share or other flexible working arrangements. THE UNION IS FUNDAMENTALLY COMMITTED TO EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES IN ITS POLICIES AND PRACTICE
How would you like to get paid for five days, but only work four? At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance - and we're putting wellbeing first. That's why we're proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, where you can work one day less each week (or equivalent hours), while still receiving your full-time pay. Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW - and others are preparing to roll it out as soon as they reach full staffing. So, whether it's already in place or just around the corner, now's the perfect time to join . Job Title: Family Liaison Officer (FLO) / Attendance Support Location: Bricklehurst Manor School, Stonegate, East Sussex, TN5 7EL Salary: Up to £31,500.00 per annum dependent on experience ( not pro rata ) Hours: 37.5 hours per week Monday to Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm (including one 5:00 pm finish) Contract: Permanent, Term Time Only Start: February 2026 UK applicants only - this role does not offer sponsorship At Bricklehurst Manor School, we believe that strong relationships between school and home are key to every child's success. We're looking for a passionate, proactive, and empathetic Family Liaison Officer / Attendance Support professional to join our friendly, dedicated team and make a lasting impact in our thriving school community. This is a truly rewarding role where you'll help families overcome challenges, support children to flourish, and ensure every pupil is fully engaged and thriving in their education. About the Role As our Family Liaison Officer, you'll be the vital link between home and school - offering practical guidance, emotional support, and advocacy for families who may be facing challenges. You'll work collaboratively with pupils, staff, and external agencies to ensure every child feels safe, supported, and ready to achieve their full potential. This is more than a job - it's a chance to make a genuine difference in the lives of our pupils and families every single day. Your Key Responsibilities Build trusted relationships with families to promote positive engagement with Bricklehurst Manor School Act as the main point of contact for families needing advice, guidance, or support Identify and address barriers affecting attendance and wellbeing, creating tailored plans of action Liaise professionally with external agencies such as Social Care, NSPCC, Early Intervention Teams, Police, Housing, and Health Services Carry out home visits when required and maintain regular communication with families Attend and contribute to multi-agency meetings, ensuring coordinated and effective support for pupils Support senior leaders in identifying and addressing attendance concerns or patterns of absence Monitor and review pupil progress, attendance, and wellbeing data to inform interventions Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL), keeping safeguarding knowledge and training current Maintain accurate and confidential records, including case studies, reports, and referrals Who We're Looking For We're seeking a compassionate, confident communicator who thrives on helping others and building strong, positive relationships. You'll be someone who genuinely cares about making a difference - not just for pupils, but for their families and the wider school community too. You will bring: GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths Experience supporting children, young people, or families in a school or community setting A strong understanding of safeguarding, confidentiality, and child protection procedures The ability to work collaboratively with teachers, families, and multi-agency professionals Excellent organisational and communication skills with a calm, empathetic approach A proactive, solution-focused mindset and a genuine passion for helping children succeed At Bricklehurst Manor, you'll be part of a close-knit, forward-thinking team that values creativity, wellbeing, and collaboration. This isn't just a teaching job - it's a chance to help build something extraordinary from the ground up. 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. We are part of Acorn Education and can offer plenty of challenges along with a wide range of opportunities to develop your career. Acorn Education is the UK's leading provider of specialist education for children and young people with special educational needs. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in creating and delivering innovative approaches that achieve measurable outcomes for those in our care. We are really proud to say that in 2024, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a 'Great Place to Work' for the fifth year running. Why join Acorn Education? We place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, so you'll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact on the lives of others. 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. Benefits Your health and wellbeing are important to us, so you'll get an exceptional reward package including: Life Assurance Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions "Your Wellbeing Matters" - access to a wide range of first-class mental health support services and physical health checks And a market-leading benefit offering through our Flexible Benefits Platform, Vista, enables you to choose the package that's right for you, including: A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits 100's of discount options valid in the UK and abroad Cycle to Work Schemes Electric Car Purchase Scheme Critical illness cover Family Growth Support - inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. You'll work 80% of your contractual hours for 100% of your pay, giving you more time to do the things that make you happy. 4DWW is subject to successful completion of probation and is not a contractual benefit 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.
Dec 05, 2025
Full time
How would you like to get paid for five days, but only work four? At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance - and we're putting wellbeing first. That's why we're proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, where you can work one day less each week (or equivalent hours), while still receiving your full-time pay. Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW - and others are preparing to roll it out as soon as they reach full staffing. So, whether it's already in place or just around the corner, now's the perfect time to join . Job Title: Family Liaison Officer (FLO) / Attendance Support Location: Bricklehurst Manor School, Stonegate, East Sussex, TN5 7EL Salary: Up to £31,500.00 per annum dependent on experience ( not pro rata ) Hours: 37.5 hours per week Monday to Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm (including one 5:00 pm finish) Contract: Permanent, Term Time Only Start: February 2026 UK applicants only - this role does not offer sponsorship At Bricklehurst Manor School, we believe that strong relationships between school and home are key to every child's success. We're looking for a passionate, proactive, and empathetic Family Liaison Officer / Attendance Support professional to join our friendly, dedicated team and make a lasting impact in our thriving school community. This is a truly rewarding role where you'll help families overcome challenges, support children to flourish, and ensure every pupil is fully engaged and thriving in their education. About the Role As our Family Liaison Officer, you'll be the vital link between home and school - offering practical guidance, emotional support, and advocacy for families who may be facing challenges. You'll work collaboratively with pupils, staff, and external agencies to ensure every child feels safe, supported, and ready to achieve their full potential. This is more than a job - it's a chance to make a genuine difference in the lives of our pupils and families every single day. Your Key Responsibilities Build trusted relationships with families to promote positive engagement with Bricklehurst Manor School Act as the main point of contact for families needing advice, guidance, or support Identify and address barriers affecting attendance and wellbeing, creating tailored plans of action Liaise professionally with external agencies such as Social Care, NSPCC, Early Intervention Teams, Police, Housing, and Health Services Carry out home visits when required and maintain regular communication with families Attend and contribute to multi-agency meetings, ensuring coordinated and effective support for pupils Support senior leaders in identifying and addressing attendance concerns or patterns of absence Monitor and review pupil progress, attendance, and wellbeing data to inform interventions Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL), keeping safeguarding knowledge and training current Maintain accurate and confidential records, including case studies, reports, and referrals Who We're Looking For We're seeking a compassionate, confident communicator who thrives on helping others and building strong, positive relationships. You'll be someone who genuinely cares about making a difference - not just for pupils, but for their families and the wider school community too. You will bring: GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths Experience supporting children, young people, or families in a school or community setting A strong understanding of safeguarding, confidentiality, and child protection procedures The ability to work collaboratively with teachers, families, and multi-agency professionals Excellent organisational and communication skills with a calm, empathetic approach A proactive, solution-focused mindset and a genuine passion for helping children succeed At Bricklehurst Manor, you'll be part of a close-knit, forward-thinking team that values creativity, wellbeing, and collaboration. This isn't just a teaching job - it's a chance to help build something extraordinary from the ground up. 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. We are part of Acorn Education and can offer plenty of challenges along with a wide range of opportunities to develop your career. Acorn Education is the UK's leading provider of specialist education for children and young people with special educational needs. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in creating and delivering innovative approaches that achieve measurable outcomes for those in our care. We are really proud to say that in 2024, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a 'Great Place to Work' for the fifth year running. Why join Acorn Education? We place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, so you'll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact on the lives of others. 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. Benefits Your health and wellbeing are important to us, so you'll get an exceptional reward package including: Life Assurance Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions "Your Wellbeing Matters" - access to a wide range of first-class mental health support services and physical health checks And a market-leading benefit offering through our Flexible Benefits Platform, Vista, enables you to choose the package that's right for you, including: A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits 100's of discount options valid in the UK and abroad Cycle to Work Schemes Electric Car Purchase Scheme Critical illness cover Family Growth Support - inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. You'll work 80% of your contractual hours for 100% of your pay, giving you more time to do the things that make you happy. 4DWW is subject to successful completion of probation and is not a contractual benefit 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.
