Alan Nixon

Skills

Senior Leadership in FE & Skills Sector – Over 18 years’ experience driving performance across apprenticeships, adult learning, and work-based learning programmes.

Quality Assurance & Compliance – Expert in QIPs, SARs, inspection readiness (Ofsted, Awarding Bodies, EPAOs), and funding compliance (ESFA).

Curriculum Design & Innovation – Proven success in developing responsive, high-quality apprenticeship standards across engineering, science, digital, and leadership.

Teaching, Learning & Assessment – Strong track record in improving learner outcomes through coaching, mentoring, and rigorous QA processes.

Strategic Planning & Team Development – Experienced in building high-performing teams, managing budgets, and aligning delivery with institutional priorities.

Data-Driven Performance Management – Skilled in interpreting and presenting data to inform decisions, track KPIs, and support continuous improvement.

Apprenticeship Operations – Extensive experience managing large-scale apprenticeship provision, including employer engagement and subcontractor oversight.

Digital & Operational Excellence – Proficient in Smart Assessor, e-portfolios, and digital tools for quality assurance and curriculum delivery.

Inclusive Learning & Support – Experienced in managing ALS, SEN, and additional learner support across diverse cohorts.

External Quality & End-Point Assessment – Active EQA and EPA for multiple Awarding Organisations with deep insight into national standards.

About

I am an experienced Senior Manager with a proven track record in the education and skills sector. My extensive expertise spans quality assurance, compliance, curriculum development, team management, management of business development and inspection readiness across apprenticeships, curriculum, welfare-to-work, and work-based learning programs.

I am a goal-oriented, analytical problem-solver skilled in budget planning, staff oversight, and educational program management. Using my relationship-building talents and diplomatic communication style, I forge long-lasting connections to enhance operations.

Throughout my 18-year career in education, I have demonstrated success as a Curriculum Director, motivating staff and optimizing program operations. I excel at organizing facilities, supplies, and educators to handle wide-ranging needs. As a highly organized, resourceful, and forward-thinking leader, I drive continuous improvement and consistently improved learner outcomes, quality, and exceeded national benchmarks and KPIs. I have developed deep knowledge of quality assurance, funding and compliance, quality processes, and end-point assessment.

As a Group Quality Assurance Manager/Director with over 18 years of experience in further education, I specialize in curriculum development, quality management, and compliance. At The Bedford College Group, I contribute to ensuring high standards in apprenticeship delivery, focusing on aligning programs with quality frameworks and strategic goals. My role emphasizes fostering collaboration, developing Quality Improvement Plans (QIPs), and supporting compliance with key educational benchmarks.

Previously, as Curriculum Director at East Durham College, I partnered with leadership teams to drive improvements in adult and work-based learning, achieving measurable progress in learner outcomes and program quality. Known for a strategic and data-driven approach, I champion continuous improvement, inspection readiness, and staff development to maximize organizational impact.