Strategic Head of Education & Belonging

Rochdale is ambitious in its plans to support the inclusion, aspiration and potential of all children and young people.

Rochdale has a relational approach; we are proud about our culture and partnerships. We are pioneering in making a difference for children and families. We are looking for a Strategic Head of Education and Belonging to drive forward our vision. We are looking for a candidate who is ambitious for our children and who is willing to work hard to support all children in reaching their full potential.

As Strategic Head of Education and Belonging you will join us in shaping an exceptional future for children and young people across Rochdale. This is a unique opportunity to influence borough-wide education strategy, champion excellence, and work in close partnership with schools, Multi Academy Trusts, and local, regional and national partners to secure the very best outcomes for our children and young people.

The post holder will lead a highly dedicated service at a time of ambition, innovation and transformation. You will be central to driving forward the Rochdale Education and Skills Strategy, developing a new Raising Rochdale Belonging Strategy and in delivering on the priorities of the Children and Young People’s Plan.

What You’ll Bring

This is a Senior Leadership role. We are looking for an experienced strategic, solutions-focused leader who thrives on collaboration, influence and impact. The post holder must be familiar in working within a Local Authority environment and have significant experience of leadership across the education system. You will be confident working with senior education leaders, adept at navigating a complex policy landscape, and motivated by a deep commitment to inclusion and equity. Your expertise will help steer the improvement journey of schools across the borough, ensuring that every childregardless of backgroundhas access to high-quality education and the opportunity to achieve their full potential.

What You’ll Do

In this senior leadership role, you will:

Drive educational excellence through strong, evidence-informed strategic leadership.

Build and maintain purposeful partnerships with schools, MATs, and external agencies.

Lead coordinated intervention and improvement strategies for schools requiring additional support.

Oversee and inspire a range of teams within the Schools, SEND and Inclusion Service, ensuring high performance and a culture of continuous improvement.

Support financial sustainability and create successful business models for the Local Authority.

Shape and implement impactful frameworks for school improvement, inclusion, and trauma-informed practice.

Provide expert advice on education policy and practice to senior leaders and elected members.

Deputise for the Assistant Director of Schools and Inclusion, contributing to corporate and strategic priorities.

Why Join Rochdale?

Rochdale Borough Council is award winning, proud, passionate and pioneering. Under our Raising Rochdale pledge, we are committed to making a real difference in the lives of our children and families, and we’re looking for someone who shares our drive and values. This role offers:

A borough-wide remit with the opportunity to drive meaningful change

Strong political and corporate support for education and inclusion

A collaborative environment where innovation is encouraged

A leadership role that directly shapes outcomes for thousands of young people

This is your opportunity to lead with impact, champion excellence, and help shape a bright future for the borough’s children. If you are a dynamic, forward-thinking education leader with the passion and skill to make a significant difference, we would love to hear from you.

If you have completed the GM Elevate (Leadership Development) Programme, please indicate this within the ‘About You’ or ‘Supporting Statement’ section of your application.

To apply please demonstrate how you meet the essential requirements of the person specification

Please include reference to your qualifications that are specified on the person specification within your application.

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role