Curriculum Lead – Foundation Learning

Role overview

Merton College is seeking a Curriculum Lead to oversee the teaching, learning and development of programmes built around the needs of learners with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. This role combines curriculum leadership with hands-on teaching and team coordination.

What you will do

You will coordinate the delivery team, teach across Entry Level 1 to 3 provision, and help shape curriculum content with a strong emphasis on independence, employability, and student progression. You will also guide staff, support learners effectively, and make sure the programmes use resources efficiently while contributing to future planning.

Teaching and curriculum focus

The postholder is expected to bring current teaching experience across academic and vocational settings, with the ability to embed maths, English, employability and life skills within learning. You will also teach on the Foundation Learning and Pathways course for up to 18 hours each week.

Essential knowledge and experience

Applicants should have up-to-date understanding of curriculum development within Foundation Learning and know how inclusive learning strategies support progression in Further Education, especially for learners with SEND. A solid grasp of accreditation and assessment within the Preparing for Adulthood framework is required, along with experience in vocational curriculum development in Further Education, including RARPA.

Working with the team

You should be confident in motivating individuals and teams toward shared targets and experienced in developing and delivering a range of vocational programmes. The role requires collaborative leadership and the ability to support high-quality student learning and support.

Employment notes

The appointed candidate will be eligible for any pay rise linked to the annual cost of living review for the new academic year. Applications close on 5 July 2026, and interviews are scheduled for 8 July 2026.

Benefits

The package includes 40 days of annual leave, plus up to 8 extra days over Christmas and New Year, and an additional 5 wellbeing days. There is also a strong pension arrangement with employer contribution (Teachers Pensions or Local Government Pension Scheme), access to subsidised sports facilities, professional development and training, and a salary sacrifice cycle-to-work scheme.

Equal opportunities and safeguarding

South Thames Colleges Group is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. The organisation welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and protects equality of opportunity regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, and marriage or civil partnership.

Pre-employment checks

Successful candidates will need to pass an enhanced DBS check, provide satisfactory references, complete an online search, and show proof of eligibility to work in the UK.

About the college group

South Thames Colleges Group includes Carshalton College, Kingston College, Merton College and South Thames College, which came together on 1 August 2017. It is one of London’s largest providers of post-16 education and training and plays an important role in supporting local communities. The group aims to keep student success at the centre of its work.

Candidate profile

The college is looking for committed, collaborative professionals who are ready to help challenge students to progress and achieve.