Alternative Provision Setup Consultant

About the role

The role is to take the POFAS vocational Alternative Provision from a detailed draft model to a fully operational, commissioner‑ready service for 14‑16 year‑olds. You will audit, challenge and complete the existing Master Provision Pack and related policies, ensuring all educational, safeguarding and quality‑assurance elements are fit for launch. The project runs on a fixed‑fee, deliverable‑based basis with a start date in September‑October 2026.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct a comprehensive audit of the current provision model, Master Provision Pack and supporting policies.
• Identify and close gaps in education, safeguarding, SEND, quality‑assurance and commissioning compliance.
• Strengthen and finalise curriculum sequencing, qualification pathways, assessment arrangements and mapping.
• Develop referral, admissions, learner suitability and placement‑review processes.
• Design baseline assessment tools, Individual Learning & Progress Plan templates and progress‑monitoring systems.
• Review and enhance SEND, reasonable‑adjustment and safeguarding implementation.
• Produce attendance, behaviour, incident and re‑engagement records and reporting templates.
• Establish commissioner‑facing reporting, prospectus and information packs.
• Complete a final pre‑opening readiness audit and handover report.

Required profile

• Senior or specialist experience in Alternative Provision leadership, setup or consultancy.
• Demonstrated expertise in education inclusion, SEND leadership or AP commissioning.
• Background in vocational education for 14‑16 year‑olds, preferably hair and beauty or related awarding bodies.
• Proven track record of auditing, quality assurance and compliance in non‑school settings.
• Experience with safeguarding, DSL responsibilities and safer recruitment processes.