Head of Learning (Academic)

We are seeking an exceptional and passionate Head of Learning (Academic) to join our senior leadership team and drive the strategic development of our academic curriculum. This is a pivotal role for an experienced practitioner who thrives in a nurturing, therapeutic environment and is committed to ensuring that pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs receive a highly personalised, ambitious, and accessible education. The successful candidate will lead on curriculum design, quality assurance, assessment, and staff development, while modelling outstanding teaching practice. With a 50% teaching load, you will remain closely connected to the classroom, ensuring your leadership is grounded in the lived experience of our pupils and staff. What You'll Be Doing

• Lead the design, implementation, and ongoing evaluation of an adapted SEMH-focused academic curriculum.
• Monitor and quality-assure teaching and learning through observations, work scrutinies, and pupil voice.
• Oversee assessment systems and analyse data to track progress and inform curriculum improvements.
• Set ambitious academic targets for individuals and groups based on data insights.
• Manage academic resources and budget to support high-quality curriculum delivery.
• Mentor and support subject leaders to ensure consistency and progression across all curriculum areas.
• Model outstanding, adaptive, trauma-informed teaching with a 50% teaching commitment.
• Support staff development through coaching, mentoring, and identifying training needs.
• Contribute to whole-school strategic planning and improvement, particularly around academic standards.
• Collaborate with external agencies, uphold safeguarding, and communicate effectively with parents and stakeholders.
  
  QTS or relevant vocational teaching qualification required
• Experience leading or contributing to curriculum development, assessment, and data-driven improvement.
• Proven ability to support, mentor, or lead staff, or clear readiness to step into a leadership role.
• Demonstrated success in raising achievement for pupils with complex needs.
• Deep understanding of SEMH needs, trauma-informed practice, and their impact on learning.
• Strong curriculum and pedagogical expertise, including effective assessment methods.
• Excellent interpersonal and relational skills, with the ability to build trust with pupils, families, and professionals.
• Resilient, adaptable, and proactive leader who motivates others and remains calm under pressure
• Driving licence required
  
  Bricklehurst Manor School is a brand-new, co-educational SEMH school located in Wadhurst, East Sussex, for pupils aged 11-16. The school will cater for up to 60 pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and associated additional needs.
This is a unique opportunity to join the school at its inception, helping to shape the culture, ethos, and learning environment. With small class sizes and a strong focus on personalised support, Bricklehurst Manor School provides a nurturing, inclusive setting where every pupil can build confidence, resilience, and achieve their full potential. Acorn Education offers rewarding careers and meaningful challenges while making a real difference in young people's lives. As a leading UK provider of specialist education for children and young people with special educational needs, and part of Outcomes First Group, we deliver innovative, evidence-based approaches that support measurable progress and lasting impact. We are really proud to say that in 2025 Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a 'Great Place to Work' for the sixth year running.

We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
• Life Assurance
• Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
• "Your Wellbeing Matters" - mental health support and physical health checks
• Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including:
+ Health, wellbeing and insurance benefits + Hundreds of UK and international discounts + Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme + Critical illness cover + Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support