AUM Learning & Skills Quality Assurance Manager

Overview

This is a Learning and Skills Quality Assurance Manager role in a South Wales Public Sector Prison (SWPSP). The main purpose is to ensure learning and skills delivery meets quality standards as outlined in the Integrated Quality Assurance Framework for HMPPS in Wales, ESTYN and Awarding Body expectations. The post is accountable to the Head of Learning and Skills and is based in one of the Public Sector Prisons in South Wales.

This is a non-rotational, non-operational post with line management responsibilities.

• Manage the quality assurance activities in prison Learning and Skills departments in line with the Integrated Quality Assurance Framework for South Wales prisons.
• Work with the Heads of Learning and Skills to continuously improve in line with ESTYN’s five inspection areas:
  Standards;
  Wellbeing and Attitudes to Learning;
  Teaching and Learning Experiences;
  Care, Support and Guidance;
  Leadership and Management.
• Manage the Quality Observation process including standardisation, training and moderation.
• Analyse audit data to identify areas for improvement in the quality systems and prepare improvement plans.
• Monitor and report on the impact of quality activities and development plans.
• Support the completion of the annual Self-Assessment Report and development and monitoring of the Quality Development Plans.
• Provide additional learning and support (mentoring) to staff for quality development and occupation competence.
• Ensure ILPs and other elements of the Learner Journey course folders are completed to an excellent standard.
• Monitor weekly end-of-course learner evaluations from staff in Learning and Skills departments and Industries and input on MIS.
• Ensure all staff are competent to deliver Essential Skills and/or vocational courses and resources/ILPs are effectively utilised according to LLUK/Accreditation Boards’ Standards and delivered in a multi-sensory way as appropriate.
• Maintain and monitor all aspects of Essential Skills in the department to maintain compliance with Quality Mark/Inspectors’ expectations.
• Support the preparation of the Annual Needs Analysis Report and the development and monitoring of related documents.
• Implement all recommendations that focus on quality procedures from inspections and assurance visits.
• Ensure teachers have required marking schemes and Essential Skills information displayed in learning environments; delivery plans are in place and displayed.
• Deliver 300 hours of teaching per year.
• Maintain professional standards and continue CPD through courses, meetings, training events, workshops and seminars to develop yourself and the department.
• Be highly self-motivated and organised.
• Adhere to all HMPPS policies and procedures.
• Line management of admin staff and oversight of contractor staff as required by the Heads of Learning and Skills.

• Teaching qualification, minimum Cert Ed or PGCE.
• Ability to keep up to date with knowledge and working practices in areas of expertise.
• Knowledge of QA tools, concepts and methodologies; strong computer skills including Microsoft Office, QA applications and databases; knowledge of relevant regulatory requirements.

Internal applicants: All newly promoted staff to Band 6 first line manager roles will be expected to complete the New Manager Programme on Civil Service Learning within three years of promotion. Staff who have previously worked at an equivalent level may be exempt.

External applicants: All external staff joining as a Band 6 manager role will be expected to complete the New Manager Programme on Civil Service Learning within three years.

37 hours per week. Hybrid Working arrangements may be available where business needs allow, subject to regular review. Some roles may not be suitable for hybrid working.

The MoJ offers flexible working where possible and provides information on terms and conditions, holidays, pensions and training. Security and identity checks apply to all posts. External candidates are subject to 6 months probation; internal candidates may be subject to probation if not previously served. The Civil Service reform terms and conditions apply to new appointments.

Interview dates:
Expected 17/8/2026 onwards.

• Making Effective Decisions
• Communicating and Influencing
• Changing and Improving
• Leadership
• Managing a Quality Service
• Quality inspection, auditing experience
• Knowledge of QA tools, concepts and methodologies
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office, QA applications and databases
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements

• National security and nationality rules apply; eligibility to work in the UK is required.

Note:

This description reflects the role as currently defined and may be adjusted as required; details will be discussed with the successful candidate.