About us
Circles has been providing supportive alternative education for children and young people for 18 years. We combine a nurturing approach with clear, consistent boundaries, helping learners build confidence, develop positive relationships and access opportunities that meet their individual needs.
Our East Bergholt site is set in woodland and welcomes primary and secondary school-aged learners. Through bushcraft, animal care, cooking and other practical and vocational activities, we help young people develop skills, independence and a renewed enthusiasm for learning.
We are looking for an experienced, resourceful and compassionate Site Manager to lead our team and oversee the day-to-day running of the outdoors provision.
The role
You will help create a safe, welcoming and well-organised environment where learners and staff can thrive. Combining practical leadership with a strong focus on safeguarding and wellbeing, you will ensure that the site runs smoothly and that our learners receive consistent, high-quality support.
You will directly manage a team of eight Group Leaders, supporting them to deliver engaging learning activities and qualifications, while developing learners’ social skills, confidence and independence.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Leading the daily operation of the site, coordinating staffing, activities and administration.
- Maintaining strong safeguarding practice, ensuring concerns are recorded, reported and acted on promptly in line with Circles’ procedures.
- Coaching and supporting Group Leaders, setting clear expectations, identifying training needs and addressing performance concerns constructively.
- Supporting staff to respond calmly and consistently to learners’ emotional and behavioural needs.
- Liaising with referring schools, local authorities, other professionals, parents and/or carers regarding attendance, progress and learner wellbeing.
- Welcoming prospective learners and their families, conducting site tours and supporting positive transitions into the provision.
- Representing Circles at relevant professional meetings, including Child in Need meetings and learner progress reviews.
- Overseeing health and safety, fire safety and risk assessments, ensuring that the woodland setting and practical activities are managed safely.
- Maintaining accurate records and helping improve the quality and effectiveness of the provision.
About you
You will have experience managing a team within an education, care or community setting, alongside experience supporting children and young people with additional needs or barriers to learning.
You will understand the importance of positive relationships, clear boundaries and consistent support. You will be supporting staff to meet a range of special educational needs and disabilities, including social, emotional and mental health needs in our young people.
We are looking for someone who:
- Leads by example and combines a supportive approach, that sets clear expectations and accountability.
- Is organised, proactive and confident making day-to-day decisions, while recognising when to seek advice or escalate concerns.
- Has a sound working knowledge of safeguarding and understands how to put policies and procedures into practice.
- Communicates clearly and compassionately with learners, families, colleagues and professionals.
- Remains calm under pressure and responds thoughtfully to difficult situations.
- Is comfortable working in an external environment in all weathers and be willing to get assist learners and staff in practical work on site.
- Takes pride in their team, their surroundings and the quality of the provision they lead.
Above all, you will recognise the potential in every young person and be committed to helping them feel safe, valued and able to succeed.
How to apply
To apply, please send your CV and a supporting statement explaining your relevant experience and why you would like to join Circles and we will send an application pack back by reply. If you want any more information, or an informal conversation about the role, please contact [email protected].
Safeguarding
Circles Alt Ed C.I.C. is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
This role involves regular work with children and young people. Appointment is subject to satisfactory references, an enhanced DBS check with a Children’s Barred List check, and other relevant pre-employment checks.
The role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, subject to the rules on protected convictions and cautions. It is an offence for anyone barred from regulated activity with children to apply for this role.
Pay: £40,000.00-£43,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Company pension
- On-site parking
Experience:
- Management: 2 years (preferred)
Language:
- English (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
- Drivers Licence (preferred)
Work Location: In person