Job Title: Site Lead
Location: Aspire Education – Darlaston, Walsall
Contract Type: Full-time
Salary: Dependent on experience and qualifications
Reporting to: Directors / Senior Leadership Team
About Aspire Education
Aspire Education works with young people aged 11–16 who have been excluded from, or are at risk of exclusion from, mainstream education. Many of our learners have SEND needs, including SEMH, ASD, and ADHD, and some have experienced significant adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).
Through our Alternative Provision, we deliver trauma-informed education that is personalised to each learner's needs. Safeguarding and wellbeing are at the centre of everything we do, helping us to create an environment where learners feel safe, supported, and able to achieve their potential.
The Role
We are looking for a motivated and compassionate Site Lead to take responsibility for the day-to-day running of one of our Aspire sites. This is a key leadership role, combining operational management with a strong focus on learner progress, wellbeing, and personal development.
The Site Lead will work closely with the Senior Leadership Team, SENCOs, staff, and external professionals to ensure every learner's academic, social, and emotional needs are met. You will create an environment where both staff and learners can thrive, ensuring the site runs smoothly and to a high standard.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
* Lead the day-to-day management of the site, ensuring a safe, well-organised, and supportive environment.
* Oversee timetables, staffing, and resources to deliver high-quality provision.
* Chair site-based staff meetings and contribute to wider planning and development.
Learner Development and Education
* Monitor and support learner progress, wellbeing, and personal development alongside teaching staff.
* Work with SENCOs to ensure learners' needs are identified and supported through EHCPs, ILPs, and tailored provision.
* Foster a trauma-informed, inclusive, and aspirational learning culture.
Safeguarding and Wellbeing
* Uphold safeguarding procedures at site level, working closely with the DSL.
* Maintain oversight of attendance, behaviour, and pastoral systems.
* Act as the main point of contact for parents, carers, and partner agencies regarding learner progress and needs.
Team Management and Development
* Provide guidance, supervision, and professional development for staff.
* Support training, mentoring, and performance management within the site team.
* Encourage effective behaviour and learning strategies.
* Promote a positive, collaborative staff culture where learners' holistic needs are prioritised.
Quality Assurance and Reporting
* Monitor and evaluate site performance, reporting to Directors and the SLT.
* Support audits, inspections, and reviews to maintain high standards.
* Ensure compliance with safeguarding, health & safety, and educational requirements.
Person Specification
Essential:
* Experience in an educational, pastoral, or leadership role within a school, AP, PRU, or specialist setting.
* Strong understanding of SEND and learner development, particularly SEMH and trauma-informed practice.
* Skilled in working with SENCOs and external agencies to support learners.
* Excellent organisational, leadership, and communication abilities.
* Ability to effectively manage staff, resources, and daily operations.
* Enhanced DBS check (or willingness to obtain).
* Commitment to safeguarding and learner welfare.
Desirable:
* Previous experience as a Site Manager, Pastoral Lead, or equivalent.
* Understanding of alternative provision models and best practice.
* Familiarity with EHCP processes and multi-agency collaboration.
* Experience in safer recruitment.
* Relevant leadership, SEN, or safeguarding qualifications.
Safeguarding Statement
Aspire Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. Staff are expected to adhere to Aspire's Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy at all times.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From £32,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
* On-site parking
Work Location: In person