Programme Leader – Centre for Educational Leadership

Job Description

About Us

Founded in 1902, the UCL Institute of Education (IOE) has been at the forefront of shaping education policy, practice, and research for over 120 years. Ranked number one globally for education since 2014 (QS World University Rankings by Subject), we are recognized for innovation, collaboration, and impact.

The Department of Learning and Leadership (DLL) is a world leader in Early Years and Primary Education, Educational Leadership, Education Policy, and Initial Teacher Education (ITE). With around 110 academic staff, the department combines cutting-edge research with evidence-based teaching, ensuring real-world impact in education policy and practice.

This role sits within the Centre for Educational Leadership (CEL), based in Bloomsbury. CEL is nationally and internationally recognized for leadership development, research, and consultancy, and has been consistently rated outstanding by Ofsted for its ITE programmes.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Programme Leader to join our Early Career Teacher Development Programme team.

You will:

Take strategic responsibility for areas of our Early Teacher Development programmes (ECF/ECTP).

Oversee programme management systems, processes, delivery, and quality assurance.

Contribute to programme design and support regional Teaching School Hubs.

Collaborate with colleagues to ensure alignment across CEL’s leadership and consultancy programmes.

Work with national and international partners to promote high-quality professional development.

This secondment-based post runs until 31 July 2026 and may require occasional travel.

About You

You will bring:

A strong track record as a successful school leader (e.g., Headteacher, Induction Tutor, or programme facilitator).

In-depth knowledge of teacher and leadership development models, and the Early Career Teacher Framework (ITTECF).

An excellent understanding of education policy at both London and national levels.

The ability to lead people and programmes creatively, with a commitment to equity and diversity.

Your application should clearly address the person specification criteria, numbering each response against the listed requirement

What We Offer

As part of UCL, you’ll have access to an excellent range of benefits, including:

41 days’ holiday (27 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays + 6 closure days, pro rata for part-time staff).

Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme.

Defined benefit pension scheme (CARE).

Cycle-to-work scheme and season ticket loan.

Immigration loan and relocation support (for eligible posts).

On-site nursery and gym.

Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay.

Employee Assistance Programme (Staff Support Service).

Discounted private medical insurance.

Learn more at: UCL Rewards and Benefits

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

UCL is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and fair workplace where everyone belongs. We particularly encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including:

Black, Asian, and minority ethnic candidates.

Disabled people.

LGBTQI+ candidates.

Women (for senior Grade 9 and 10 roles).

The Faculty holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, recognising our dedication to advancing gender equality.