Interim Head of Initial Teacher Education

What makes Goldsmiths unique?

Goldsmiths is a world-renowned university that has a reputation for rigorous and innovative academic work; creativity has long been our hallmark. Academic excellence and imaginative course content combine to make a place where creative minds can thrive.

About the Department

The successful candidate will be a highly qualified and experienced educator with QTS (or equivalent) and a strong background in Initial Teacher Education (ITE). They will demonstrate extensive knowledge of ITE policy, governance, compliance and inspection frameworks, including experience of Ofsted preparation and quality assurance, alongside a proven track record of leading programmes, managing teams, and delivering strategic objectives. The postholder will bring expertise in research-informed practice, partnership working, mentor development, and innovative teaching, supported by excellent communication, organisational, and digital skills, as well as a clear commitment to equity and social justice.

About the Role

This is a temporary short-term cover role that is primarily focused on team management and Ofsted preparation, 14 hours per week (ASAP to October 2026). The role-holder will primarily contribute to leadership, planning, and teaching across PGCE programmes, ensuring the smooth running of school visits, assessment of students, and mentor provision.

About the Candidate

The ideal candidate will hold QTS (or equivalent) and a master’s degree (or above) in education or a related discipline. They will have significant recent experience in university-based ITE programmes and a strong understanding of ITE policy, governance, compliance, and Ofsted frameworks.

They will demonstrate experience in programme and strategic leadership, including self-evaluation and improvement planning, as well as team management, partnership working, mentor development, and research-informed practice.

Excellent communication, organisational, and digital skills are essential, along with a clear commitment to equity, inclusion, and social justice.

Benefits

We have generous benefits – an agile working environment, 28 days’ annual leave (pro-rata) plus 6 paid closure days (4 at Christmas and 2 at Easter) plus all Bank Holidays, great transport links, a defined benefit pension scheme, support for professional development and a broad range of wellbeing initiatives such as staff choir, running club and creative writing classes.

Equality Diversity and Inclusion

At Goldsmiths, University of London, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion shape how we lead, learn, and work. We are committed to building an inclusive and respectful environment, removing barriers and addressing inequalities so that everyone in our community can belong and thrive.