Head of Learning - Adult Skills and Business Development

Job Posted: 12 February 2026

• Contract Term: Permanent
• Location: Isle of Wight
• Contract Type: Full time
• Salary: £47,846 - £57,105
• Industries: Education Management & Executive Miscellaneous

Head of Learning – Adult Skills & Business Development

Isle of Wight College

Full-time | 39 hours per week | AP14 - £47,846 - £57,105 | Newport campus | Job share possibility 

 Wellbeing Support - Free Breakfast Items in staff rooms, Staff awards to recognise staff demonstrating the College values, Special celebrations to support staff such as summer Buffett and Christmas lunch, onsite salon offering a variety of hair and beauty treatments discounted for staff, onsite Starbucks, free parking, generous staff development support, blue light, Cycle to work scheme, family friendly policies to support staff 

Are you a bold, creative leader with a passion for transforming adult education?
Ready to shape the skills future of the Island and build powerful employer partnerships?
If you’re excited by innovation, thrive on challenge, and love seeing learners succeed — this might be your next big adventure.

Why This Role Matters

Adult education is changing fast — and so are we. At The Isle of Wight College, we’re expanding our adult skills and employer-responsive curriculum, and we need a Head of Learning who can bring energy, ideas and strategic strength.

You’ll lead a high-performing area where curiosity, creativity and coaching are central to how we work (). This role has real influence: shaping curriculum, building employer links, driving growth, and ensuring outstanding teaching and learning.

This isn’t a “keep the ship steady” job. It’s a “take the wheel and chart the course” opportunity.

What You’ll Lead

As our new Head of Learning, you will:

• Drive an ambitious adult skills & business development curriculum that meets community and employer needs
• Inspire and coach talented staff, nurturing a culture of innovation and continuous improvement
• Champion outstanding teaching, learning and assessment across your area
• Grow provision and revenue, designing both funded and commercial opportunities
• Build strong employer partnerships and shape responsive training offers
• Ensure excellent student outcomes, from retention to progression
• Represent the college with confidence, collaboration and an entrepreneurial mindset

If you’ve got ideas, we want to hear them.
If you’ve got drive, we want to see it.
If you’ve got passion, we’ll help you turn it into impact.

What You’ll Bring

We’re looking for someone who is:

• A confident leader with experience managing curriculum areas to a high standard
• Skilled in designing innovative, employer-responsive programmes
• A natural collaborator who thrives on building relationships with staff, students, partners and stakeholders
• Data-savvy, strategic and able to turn insights into action
• A coach at heart — supportive, reflective, and able to bring out the best in others
• Highly organised, positive, and ready to drive meaningful change

You’ll also hold relevant teaching and leadership qualifications or be willing to work towards them

What we can offer:

Employees at the Isle of Wight College enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that enhances their work-life balance and wellbeing. Staff are entitled to 35 days of annual leave in addition to bank holidays, and benefit from a Christmas Shutdown Holiday Allowance. The college offers an excellent pension scheme under the Local Government Scheme, providing long-term financial security.

For those keen on environmental sustainability and fitness, there’s a Cycle to Work Scheme. Employees also enjoy Wightlink discounts for travel, discounted treatments in the Hair and Beauty departments, and free access to the on-site gym. Convenience is provided with free onsite parking, and the campus boasts an on-site Starbucks & Restaurant for all your refreshment needs.

Health and wellbeing are taken seriously, with an Eye Care Scheme for Display Screen Equipment users, access to the Public Benefit Scheme (Kaarp), and additional Maternity/Adoption and Sickness Benefit Schemes. The college also provides Free Counselling and Wellbeing Support, ensuring employees have access to mental health resources.

Professional growth is encouraged through CPD days, offering opportunities for mentorship and coaching, including staff development days. The college also promotes a healthy work environment with Well-being days & activities, ensuring that staff wellbeing is a priority.

Ready to Apply?

Please ensure your CV and cover letter are uploaded to your application via Isle of Wight Jobs.

You can also submit your CV and Cover Letter by emailing [email protected]

The Isle of Wight College is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or age. We believe that a diverse workforce enhances our ability to provide high-quality education and fosters a culture of mutual respect and understanding. Join us in our mission to promote equality and inclusivity in education.

Please be aware that the Isle of Wight College may close the vacancy earlier than anticipated if a sufficient number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, it is recommended to submit your CV promptly.

The Isle of Wight College is a Disability Confidential Employer.

The successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check. This is to ensure the safety and well-being of our students and staff. The Isle of Wight College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment