Head of School of Education

Manchester Metropolitan University – School of Education

About Us

We have been proudly driving progress for more than two centuries. As one of the UK's largest and most popular universities, we're a force for good, dedicated to delivering outstanding research and excellent education. Much more than a university, we are a place where ambitious people unite as a diverse and inclusive community to make meaningful connections. Where world-class facilities combine with exceptional minds to improve lives through innovation. We welcome those who are committed, talented, and hardworking. People who believe in our values and are as driven as we are to achieve shared goals.

Our community of over 5,100 colleagues work in close partnership every day to bring about positive change regionally, nationally, and globally.

Build a role with purpose, in an environment designed to unlock your potential. Be part of Manchester Met. Be Manchester Met proud. Let's transform lives together.

The Opportunity

As part of our Faculty of Health & Education, the School of Education is home to a diverse, inclusive, and innovative academic community, with a long history of expertise and practice in the field of education. We are at the forefront of innovation in education research, knowledge exchange and education practice.

Our extensive portfolio includes undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in the fields of education, early years and childhood studies, special and inclusive education and educational leadership. We also run initial Teacher Education Programmes, including a Primary undergraduate programme with Qualified Teacher Status and a PGCE Primary programme, along with a wide variety of Secondary PGCEs.

Research underpins all that we do. We are world leading in the power of our research (Rank 9th for Research Power, REF 2021), and this is embedded into our academic portfolio and in our teaching as we prepare our students to make meaningful change and improve the educational outcomes of children and young people, regionally, nationally and beyond.

The role

We are now seeking an exceptional individual to lead this vibrant and outward-facing School into its next exciting chapter. As Head of School, you will play a central role in shaping strategic direction, driving excellence in research and education, and championing a culture of collaboration and inclusion.

This is an outstanding opportunity for a motivated and visionary leader with a track record of academic leadership. We expect you to ideally be a current Professor, with a personal commitment to research and pedagogic innovation. You will also bring with you a clear and ambitious vision for the School, and an ability to inspire colleagues and students alike. You'll be an active contributor to the Faculty Executive Group, helping shape the wider Faculty's priorities and partnerships, while working closely with university leadership.

We welcome applicants with a strong mindset and a desire to break new ground, whether in reshaping curriculum, building community connections, expanding international collaborations, or developing our research profile in REF and beyond. You'll lead a talented academic team, support career development, foster innovation, and ensure an exceptional student experience.

Further information and how to apply

*Please do not apply for this vacancy via the university website*

Further information, including a detailed role description and person specification, along with information on how to apply, can be found through our executive recruitment advisors (Perrett Laver) via this link - https://plusportal.perrettlaver.com/VacancyDetail/d55b0abf-8a55-6439-eefb-3a1fe93d2ca9 (reference 8324). For an informal discussion, please contact Daniel Munks at Daniel.Munks@perrettlaver.com.

Deadline for submission of applications is Sunday, 19 April 2026 at 23:59 GMT.

Interviews to be held on campus in Manchester on Tuesday, 9 June 2026.