The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership for all aspects of inclusion and SEND. The strategic oversight of EAL students, pupil premium provision, and educational provision for all vulnerable learners is encompassed within this role. Central to this leadership position is the ability to deliver high quality CPD to staff on the effective teaching of vulnerable learners. You will work closely with senior leaders, the SENDCo, and curriculum teams to ensure that our inclusive ethos is evident in every classroom and embedded across all policies, systems and practice. This role offers the opportunity to shape whole‑school strategy, lead high‑impact staff development, and ensure our provision for vulnerable learners continues to be of the highest standard. We are a leading secondary comprehensive with results that place us amongst the highest performing schools in the county. Building on our "Outstanding" judgement (Ofsted 2023), we are continually developing and improving the educational experience for all learners. Our dynamic and inspirational team of staff delivers a high‑quality learning experience where every student has the opportunity to excel.
Responsibilities
* Provide strategic leadership for SEND and Inclusion, ensuring statutory compliance and best practice.
* Lead the development of high‑quality adaptive teaching and inclusive practice across all curriculum areas.
* Oversee interventions, monitor their impact, and ensure a robust graduated response.
* Line‑manage the SENDCo and other leaders, promoting a culture of high expectations.
* Lead on transitions, particularly Year 6 to 7, ensuring strong early identification and support planning.
* Drive effective use of SEND, pupil premium and intervention funding to secure maximum impact.
* Produce clear and high‑quality reports for governors, Ofsted, and external partners.
* Lead, develop and evaluate staff CPD on SEND, inclusion and behaviour for learning.
* Ensure robust quality assurance systems including learning walks, book studies, case reviews and data analysis.
* Be a highly visible and positive presence around school, modelling inclusive values and behaviours.
Essential Qualifications
* Qualified Teacher Status.
* Proven experience as a Head of Department or equivalent.
* A strong track record in leading inclusive practice and improving outcomes for SEND and vulnerable learners.
* Deep knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice, KCSIE, national curriculum, and evidence‑based inclusive strategies.
* Experience of using data to drive improvement and evaluate impact.
* Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate, challenge and support staff.
* A strong belief in inclusion for all and a commitment to high standards.
Desirable
* Experience in more than one school setting.
* Evidence of successfully leading whole‑school improvement initiatives.
* Experience of staff recruitment and induction.
* Additional professional qualifications related to SEND or leadership.
Why Join Us
* A positive, values‑driven school with a strong culture of inclusion.
* A supportive and collaborative Senior Leadership Team.
* A real opportunity to lead meaningful change and directly improve life chances for young people.
* Commitment to staff wellbeing, development and career progression.
* Have high expectations of themselves and the people they work with.
* Are committed to our Trust values.
* Show initiative and are responsive to change.
* Have strong interpersonal skills with the ability to inspire and motivate others.
* Are creative in their approach to problem solving.
* Are able to influence effectively, whatever their role.
* Are team players.
About the Trust
Areté Learning Trust currently has 11 schools and educates over 7,000 young people in and around North Yorkshire from ages 2-18. Our learners are at the heart of everything we do. At Areté Learning Trust we work together and collaborate to ensure that all of our learners and our staff team have the chance to reach their potential. Our Trust is committed to promoting:
* Health, happiness and wellbeing
* A safe, disciplined and supportive environment
* A love of learning through a passionate and committed approach
* High standards and expectations
* Integrity, kindness and good manners
* Respect for individuality and difference
* Collaborative working to secure excellence
#J-18808-Ljbffr