The Director of Vocational Training will be responsible for developing and delivering an ambitious strategy, building on long-term partnerships and forging new relationships. Working across the organisation, we want to be a centre of excellence for vocational learning and training, supporting people to study, work and build their creative lives in Kent. You will bring your knowledge of UK skills frameworks and the higher or further education sector alongside your passion for creating access to careers in the performing arts. A strategic thinker, you will harness opportunities and be able to develop new ideas, creating coherent delivery plans using the expertise within the organisation to deliver best practice in vocational learning. You will strengthen our role on the national landscape through excellent communication, relationship-building, and advocacy. £54,979 per annum full time, permanent A collaborative leader To develop and deliver a strategy for the Marlowe Theatre's vocational training programmes. Through the 'work for us' section of the Marlowe Theatre website by 22 April 2026, 23:59.Job Summary
Job Description
Our current programme includes:
The Marlowe Academy of Performing Arts, an educational programme in partnership with East Kent Colleges Group designed for 16 to 19-year-olds to gain world-class experience in the theatre industry, leading to a UAL Level 3 Qualification
The national home of Matthew Bourne's Cygnet School, a dance training programme for 12-24-year olds
Our award-winning apprenticeship programme, now in its fourth year
Working in partnership with Canterbury Christ Church University to deliver a BA (Hons) Performing Arts Degree
Over 1,000 hours of work experience for Canterbury College students
Schools careers insights through our Shine a Light programme
We want to grow this work and develop a cohesive plan for vocational training, identifying skills gaps across the sector and creating meaningful training opportunities to address them. Harnessing regional and national opportunities, the Director of Vocational Training will drive this work at the Marlowe Theatre, putting us at the forefront of the skills development agenda.Job Requirements
Able to advocate passionately for this work
Inclusive in their approach to developing new programmes
A motivated self-starter
Some knowledge of the creative industry landscape
Good knowledge of safeguarding requirements Knowledge
Excellent project management skills
Advanced written and verbal communication skills
Good people management skills
Good budgeting and financial planning skills
Good problem solver and creative thinker
Good strategic planning skills
Significant experience in the development of vocational qualifications
Previous experience as a senior manager or as a member of a
leadership team
Proven experience of developing effective and strong strategic partnerships
Experience of effectively scoping, resourcing and scheduling vocational
training programmes
Experience of setting and managing budgets
Experience of evaluation and reporting, using data for evidence led programme development and impact measurement.Job Responsibilities
To build upon and develop partnerships with Further Education and Higher Education providers to
co-develop and co-deliver vocational training qualifications.
To champion vocational training at all levels of the organisation, creating a cohesive plan with cross organisation buy in. To represent the Marlowe Theatre's skills development and training work both regionally and nationally, identifying opportunities for development including the national and regional
skills agenda.
To develop and manage the Marlowe Theatre's award-winning apprenticeship programme to deliver high-quality apprenticeships.
To contribute to the development of policy and play a significant role in the strategic direction of the Theatre as a member of the Strategic Management Team.
To drive your own career and skills development, making the most of the opportunities made available to you.How to Apply