Assistant Director Education Improvement

Assistant Director - Education Improvement (Interim) - 6 month contract. Start ASAP (1-2 weeks). Daily rate £600 - £700. Inside IR35 (via umbrella). Hybrid working.

This is a high impact interim opportunity for a credible system leader ready to step into a challenging and visible role. As Assistant Director - Education Improvement (Interim), you will report to senior leadership, lead a wide education portfolio and manage four senior direct reports across school improvement and Early Years, taking ownership of improvement at pace, providing stability, grip and direction during a critical period for services, schools and families.

You will be trusted to operate at scale from day one, working directly with headteachers, system leaders and partners, while balancing improvement priorities with financial realities. This role is about influence, delivery and making confident decisions where they matter most.

Your role as Assistant Director - Education Improvement (Interim):

• Strategic leadership across School Improvement, Early Years, SEND, safeguarding and alternative provision
• System wide improvement, aligning practice to the Ofsted Education Inspection Framework
• Financial oversight, supporting schools facing budget pressures and contributing to recovery plans
• Data led decision making, improving outcomes for vulnerable and disadvantaged cohorts
• Senior people leadership, managing, coaching and holding to account four experienced direct reports

Your previous experience as an Assistant Director - Education Improvement (Interim):

• Assistant Director level experience (or equivalent) within a Local Authority setting
• Proven school improvement track record, including SEND and Early Years leadership
• Strong financial acumen, with experience of school finance, managing deficits and recovery planning
• Workforce restructuring experience, including consultation, redesign and delivery at pace
• Credible inspection experience, working confidently with Ofsted and DfE frameworks

Our clients are committed to building diverse workforces and recruit based on experience and skills. Any reasonable adjustments will be fully supported throughout the application and hiring process.