Job reference:006158

Salary:L1-L4 or L4-L8 depending on experience

Department:Education

Hours Per Week:Not specified

Closing date:16/10/2025

Job Description

Join us in shaping an inclusive future for every student

Are you passionate about inclusion, advocacy, and creating spaces where every student feels seen, heard, and valued?

We are looking for a dynamic and compassionate leader to join our dedicated team in a pivotal role that sits at the heart of our inclusive ethos. This exciting opportunity is ideal for someone ready to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students with a wide range of needs, including ASC, PMLD, and complex learning profiles.

As our new Assistant Headteacher and Inclusion and Advocacy Lead, you will champion the voice and experience of every student. You will ensure they are empowered to thrive both in and beyond the classroom. You will play a key strategic role in embedding inclusive practice across the school – bringing together student voice, family partnerships, cultural responsiveness, curriculum adaptation, and safeguarding excellence.

You’ll lead on:

• Developing and quality-assuring Student Inclusion Profiles and Support Plans.

• Championing student voice and self-advocacy, including for non-verbal and neurodivergent students.

• Driving inclusive classroom practice and equitable staffing support.

• Leading on the school’s “Inclusion and Belonging” culture in line with the 2025 Ofsted framework.

• Acting as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for an allocated cohort, ensuring a holistic and needs-aware approach to safety and wellbeing.

• Building strong, trusting partnerships with families through thoughtful liaison and support.

We are looking for a professional with experience working within specialist settings who also brings creativity, emotional intelligence, and a strong values-led approach to leadership. You’ll be confident using data to spot trends, delivering safeguarding training to staff, and ensuring that inclusive practice is embedded throughout the school.

In return, you’ll be part of a forward-thinking, nurturing school community that values collaboration, innovation, and inclusion. This is your chance to shape practice, support families, and be a trusted advocate for exceptional young people.

If you believe in the right of every student to belong, contribute, and succeed – this role is for you.

Safeguarding Statement:

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and all necessary safeguarding checks in line with statutory guidance.

Our Commitment to Values-Based Recruitment:

We believe that who you are matters as much as what you know. Our recruitment process includes values-based interviews designed to explore how your personal ethos aligns with our inclusive, student-centred culture. We welcome applications from candidates who are committed to equity, advocacy, and creating a sense of belonging for every member of our school community.