Head of Centre – Acorn Exeter

Who are Acorn Alternative Provision? 

Exclusion from school is a growing problem across the UK. Persistent disruptive behaviour is the most recorded reason for exclusion, but in many cases, there are underlying factors that have been or are traumatic and have played a significant part in the story.  These include poverty; unsafe family environment; poor mental health; special educational needs and gaps in prior learning.  In the long-term, and without intervention or effective support, excluded pupils are more likely to become unemployed and are significantly over-represented in the criminal justice system. 

At Acorn Alternative Provision we work in partnership with local churches to address the underlying issues that have led to young people facing exclusion or disengagement from school. We do this by delivering trauma-informed educational programmes that rebuild foundations, and by providing wrap-around support to young people and families. 

Acorn Centres are safe places, where some of the most disadvantaged young people in our communities are loved, nurtured and enabled to grow and succeed. They are small, therapeutic learning environments where the Christian values of love, grace, compassion, forgiveness and hope underpin the holistic approach and the needs-led curriculum we deliver during the school day.   Alongside this, the Church brings wider practical and pastoral support to the young people and their families, connecting them into missional activities that already exist to help overcome poverty, loneliness and social injustice. 

About the role 

We are looking for Christians to join our team at our newest Centre – Acorn Exeter. If you are passionate about helping disadvantaged young people grow and overcome barriers and are excited about the difference the Church can make, this could be the job for you. 

The Head of Centre will lead the small staff team locally and manage the effective running of the Acorn Centre in Exeter. This role blends leadership, teaching, and relational skills, with the values of a living and active Christian faith and would suit someone with experience in leading in an education or youth work setting. 

Annual Salary: £30,384 – £36,050 depending on experience.

Post start date: 2nd September 2024.

For full details of the role and how to apply, please read the Job Description and Person Specification.

The closing date for applications is: Friday 8th March 2024

How to apply for the job

Please carefully and prayerfully read through our Job description and Person Specification and if you would like to apply, please fill in our online application form which can be found here.

Shortlisting will take place during the week commencing 11th March.

Interviews will take place at our Acorn Centre in Torquay, during the week commencing 18th March.

Please note – unfortunately, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this role and will require proof of eligibility to work in the UK.

If you have any questions about the role or application process, please email us at HR@acornap.org.uk.