Head of Sixth Form / Futures

Job Purpose

The Head of Sixth Form / Futures - (UK Curriculum) is tasked with providing strategic and visionary leadership to create a progressive, student-focused learning environment. This position is pivotal in fostering the development of innovative academic programs, operational frameworks, and a vibrant school culture, while ensuring adherence to regulations and sustainable advancement. By promoting creativity, critical thinking, and real-world experiences, the Vice Principal / Head of Futures equips students to become confident, future-ready individuals, all while cultivating a high-performing team and a solid school foundation. The role includes creating pathways for further education and employment that align with students' interests and aspirations through partnerships and work experience opportunities.

Job Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

· Deliver visionary leadership to establish and enhance a high-performing, future-ready learning community.

· Formulate and execute the school’s strategic plan, coordinating academic and operational efforts.

· Assemble, mentor, and motivate a high-performing team dedicated to excellence in teaching, learning, and student development.

· Cultivate the school’s culture, ethos, and values to embody innovation, inclusion, and holistic education.

· Serve as a representative of the school at the Senior Leadership level, engaging with regulators, parents, and the wider community to build trust and credibility.

· Ensure long-term viability by integrating educational excellence with operational and financial planning.

Oversight of Programmes

· Create, implement, and assess enterprise and employability programs in line with the school's strategy.

· Propel significant initiatives such as the Student Careers Fair, university workshops, and faculty-specific programs to enrich student learning and engagement with the real world.

· Infuse entrepreneurial learning throughout the curriculum, enrichment, and co-curricular activities.

· Conduct annual reviews of programs to ensure their relevance, quality, and progression.

Mentoring & Student Support

· Offer individualized and group coaching to students, focusing on practical, real-world learning and its application.

· Aid students in developing soft skills, including communication, confidence, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

· Monitor individual progress through enterprise portfolios, coaching objectives, and structured assessments.

· Establish strong, trust-based relationships with students, families, and staff to provide comprehensive support.

· Guarantee the implementation of effective safeguarding and welfare measures.

· Promote a safe, inclusive, and nurturing atmosphere for all students.

Community Engagement & Partnerships

· Foster connections with entrepreneurs, incubators, higher education institutions, and local/international businesses.

· Organize real-world learning experiences such as visits, panels, projects, and internships.

· Seek and secure sponsorships to bolster student initiatives and enterprise programs.

· Create an alumni network to facilitate mentoring, talks, and work-related opportunities.

Parental & Stakeholder Communication

· Lead parent engagement initiatives that emphasize creativity and a real-world approach.

· Provide clear communication regarding program objectives, student expectations, and future pathways.

· Collaborate with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and staff to ensure unified messaging and integration of enterprise throughout school life.

Marketing, Social Media & Promotion

· Publicize the school’s mission, events, and student achievements through social media and internal communications.

· Highlight impact via platforms such as newsletters, websites, and community channels.

· Work alongside marketing to showcase student enterprise success stories and draw external interest and sponsorship.

Program Expectations & Student Outcomes

· Ensure that all eligible students are engaged in comprehensive programs that combine work experience and business skill development.

· Oversee the development and monitoring of student businesses, projects, and portfolios to track progress and results.

Qualifications

A qualification in business, education, or enterprise leadership (or equivalent).

Experience

A minimum of 12 years in a senior leadership role, demonstrating proven expertise in enterprise, youth entrepreneurship, or future skills education.

Essential Traits

High emotional intelligence and a robust moral compass.

Extensive knowledge of mentoring practices, entrepreneurial culture, innovative educational methods, student agency, and future-focused programs.

Experience in managing budgets, admissions, HR, facilities, and compliance, while balancing operational efficiency with educational quality.

Strong mentoring, coaching, and safeguarding abilities, with an emphasis on soft skills, entrepreneurship, and comprehensive student development.

Capacity to build relationships with parents, staff, boards, and external partners while promoting the school’s mission and achievements.