Strategic Lead: Education Improvement
2 days ago
Are you ready to lead transformational change in education? We are seeking an exceptional leader to join our forward-thinking Education Division. This is a unique opportunity to shape and drive countywide strategic priorities focused on improving education standards, attendance, and behaviour—delivered through fully integrated, area-based teams around schools.
As a key member of the Education leadership team, you will report directly to the Head of Education: Inclusion and Partnerships. You will lead the development and delivery of our strategy for high-quality, inclusive education across the county, with a particular focus on coordinating our area-based teams to secure better outcomes for children and young people.
In this pivotal role, you will lead the strategy for improving education standards, attendance, and behaviour through three integrated, area-based teams. You'll have the opportunity to build strong, collaborative partnerships across education, children's services, schools, health services, and families—creating a joined-up approach that delivers lasting impact. Working closely with school leaders, you'll drive improvement through our well-established, school-led system, while also playing a key role in shaping strategic planning and managing change across the division. This is an exciting chance to influence outcomes at scale and make a real difference to the lives of children and young people.
We're looking for someone who brings:
- Proven leadership experience in education.
- Expertise in using data to evaluate performance and drive improvement.
- Confidence and skill in challenging underperformance and securing better outcomes.
- Experience leading large, multi-disciplinary teams.
- Energy, drive, and resilience to make a lasting impact.
- Integrity and a strong moral purpose to work collaboratively with partners.
- A track record of improving outcomes for children and young people.
Interested? If you have the vision and expertise to lead our area-based teams into their next phase of development, we'd love to hear from you.
To apply for this role, please follow the 'Apply Now' button above and upload your CV and a Supporting Statement. We will be using your Supporting Statement to shortlist so please be sure to address how you meet all the criteria in the person specification, drawing on any relevant work/life experience, education, or personal interests.
For guidance on how to write an application see our how to apply page.
Please download the Job Description & Person Specification for more information.
Interviews will be held in person on Wednesday 07 January 2026 at County Hall in Lewes and will include:
- A formal interview panel
- An introductory meeting with Elizabeth Funge: Assistant Director, Education
- Opportunities to meet key colleagues
Candidates who meet certain criteria are given priority when we shortlist. See our priority status page for details.
For an informal conversation prior to applying, please contact Gemma Paveley, PA to Katie Ridgway – Head of Education: Inclusion and Partnerships, on
We offer a diverse range of benefits to help and support you during your employment. More information can be found on our benefits page.
For work that makes a difference, choose East Sussex
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