Head of PRU

Job Title: Head of PRU

Location: Derbyshire, UK
Employment Type: Permanent
Salary: £55k - £75k per annum

Link3 Recruitment is a reputable recruitment agency specialising in the education sector. We are dedicated to connecting exceptional leaders with schools and educational provisions across the UK. We are currently seeking an inspirational & forward-thinking Head of PRU (Pupil Referral Unit) to lead a well-established provision in Derbyshire.

This is a unique opportunity for a highly motivated leader to shape the vision, culture, and curriculum of a PRU that supports some of the most vulnerable and at-risk young people in education.

We are looking for an innovative and strategic Head of PRU who can articulate and implement a clear vision for success. The successful candidate will lead with passion, empathy, and resilience, ensuring high standards of teaching, behaviour, and personal development for every pupil.

You will be responsible for:

• Leading, inspiring, and developing the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and staff, fostering a culture of collaboration and professional growth.

• Embedding a progressive and relationship-centred approach to behaviour management, underpinned by theoretical frameworks and trauma-informed practice.

• Designing and implementing a creative, innovative, and engaging curriculum that meets the needs of all learners, ensuring education is meaningful, inclusive, and aspirational.

• Building strong relationships with stakeholders, including parents, local authorities, and partner organisations, to deliver the best outcomes for pupils.

• Ensuring a safe, supportive, and aspirational environment for staff and pupils alike.

• Proven experience in building, developing, and leading effective Senior Leadership Teams.

• A collaborative leadership style that earns trust, respect, and buy-in from staff.

• A track record of improving standards and driving sustainable school improvement.

• A clear & innovative vision for behaviour management where quality relationships are at the centre.

• The ability to communicate what a positive culture of behaviour “looks and feels like” in practice.

• Strong theoretical understanding of behaviour frameworks and how they are applied in real-life contexts.

• A commitment to trauma-informed practice and an understanding of how it shapes a school’s ethos and environment.

• A clear vision of what a best-in-class, creative, and engaging curriculum should be.

• Practical examples of making education meaningful for pupils, particularly those disengaged from mainstream education.

• Clear principles on classroom “do’s and don’ts” to maximise engagement and learning.

• Substantial leadership experience within a PRU, alternative provision, or similar educational setting.

• Proven track record of improving behaviour, engagement, and attainment in challenging contexts.

• Relevant teaching qualification or significant senior leadership experience in alternative provision.

• Up-to-date safeguarding knowledge and a commitment to pupil welfare.

• All applicants must undergo an enhanced DBS check (Child Workforce) prior to working if not already in possession of one that is registered to the update service. The cost of a DBS would be put forward to the applicant. Link3 Recruitment is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

If you meet the experience and leadership qualities outlined above and have the vision to lead an outstanding PRU, we would love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your leadership philosophy and relevant experience to (url removed).