About the College
Northumberland College is Ofsted Outstanding and is currently building a multi-million, state of the art, new college campus in Ashington, due to open in 2026. The successful candidate will be based at the new college where a purpose-built construction, housing, advanced manufacturing and engineering centre will be located.
Curriculum spans technical, vocational further and higher education and includes large apprenticeship provision and dedicated centres for young people with SEND.
The College has two main campuses in Ashington, and Ponteland, and as part of the college group Education Partnership Northeast, it also has a significant number of satellite delivery centres across the region
Served by easy road links, and the new train station in Ashington, when Northumberland College opens its new Department for Education backed campus at Wansbeck Business Park, the college will boast a national trailblazer both in architectural design and operation. This major £52 million+ investment comes on top of the College recently driving £14million into new facilities and resources at its existing sites.
Please see the following link to our 2024 Ofsted Report, in which we were graded as being Outstanding across all areas -
Ofsted-Report-Outstanding
Our Journey & Values
As an employer, we prioritize cultivating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, where our staff can thrive and grow. We recognize that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are deeply committed to investing in their professional development and overall wellbeing.
About the Candidate
We are seeking an inspiring and forward-thinking horticulture professional who embodies our college values of courage, respect, authenticity and excellence. You will be passionate about making a difference for learners and committed to being a change maker in the land-based sector. With strong technical knowledge and experience in horticulture, you will be able to engage and motivate both young people and adults through high-quality, hands-on teaching and curriculum leadership. You will be adaptable, student-centred and inclusive in your approach, fostering confidence and progression across all levels of study. Experience of supporting SEND learners would be an advantage, and you will demonstrate professionalism, innovation and a genuine passion for horticultural education and sustainability.
About the Role
This is a full-time position based at our land-based college at Kirkley Hall, home to extensive grounds and a historic walled garden, cared for in partnership with the college's estates department. As Programme Leader for Horticulture, you will lead and deliver engaging programmes across Level 2 and Level 3 Technical qualifications, as well as introductory Entry and Level 1 courses that inspire learners to explore horticulture. You will ensure the delivery of high-quality, industry-relevant teaching and learning, support student progress and wellbeing, and collaborate with colleagues and employers to enrich the curriculum. This is a rewarding opportunity to shape the future of horticultural education and nurture the next generation of skilled professionals within a dynamic and supportive land-based environment.
Role Responsibilities
- Plan, prepare and deliver high quality, sequenced learning through career focused schemes of learning
- Provide an excellent experience to students through exemplary learning, teaching and standards of assessment
- Teach students to high standards using appropriate and varied student - centred approaches, embracing learning technologies to enhance the student experience.
- Actively engage in reflective practice and contribute to the wider professional development programme.
- Liaise effectively with the wider support team to ensure appropriate and high-quality academic support is provided as required.
- Participate in college recruitment and marketing events where required.
Qualifications
- Level 5 Diploma in Education and training or equivalent
- L3 qualification in Horticulture
- Level 2 Mathematics
- Level 2 English Language
Essential Skills & Experience.
- Experience of taking ownership of a study programme
- Experience of planning and delivery of inclusive learning sessions
- Experience of keeping records of student progress against achievements
- Experience of managing a programme of study
Desirable Skills & Experience - (Optional)
- Experience of working with SEND students
What's in it for you?
Join EPNE and you'll be part of a culture that prioritizes your development and wellbeing, which is why all employees receive an extensive benefits package.
- Enjoy a generous holiday allowance (35-48 days per year, plus public holidays).
- Generous family leave and flexible working options (dependent on role)
- LGPS or Teacher Pensions Scheme, (dependent on role 15.7% - 28.68%)
- Access to myLifestyle benefits platform providing retail discounts and more.
- We offer dental, eye care & health cash plans.
- Extensive wellbeing support through a digital Wellbeing Hub that offers a broad range of support for physical, mental, and financial wellbeing.
- Free parking on most campuses.
- Free Gym access available at Bede Campus
Due to the nature of this post, you will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure Check.
We believe in equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
We are committed to PREVENT and safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.
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