Do you have the passion, expertise and strategic vision to lead inclusion at whole-school level and ensure every learner thrives?
Job type: Full-Time
Contract Type: Permanent
Closing: 10:00, 15/04/2026
Interview: 22/04/2026
Carleton High School is looking for an outstanding senior leader to join our team as Deputy Headteacher (SENDCO). This is a fantastic opportunity to lead and elevate our SEND provision, keeping the school at the forefront of inclusive practise through a dynamic, whole-school strategy.
The role also includes strategic leadership of our brand-new Integrated Resource Provision, opening in April 2026, supporting students with communication and interaction needs, including autism.
About the role:
* Strategic leadership of SEND, inclusion and personalised learning across the school
* Oversight and quality assurance of the Integrated Resource Provision
* Key member of the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to whole-school improvement and decision-making
* Coaching, developing and line managing staff, including the Associate Assistant Headteacher (Integrated Resource Lead), Deputy SENDCO and Assistant SENDCO.
* Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead responsibilities
* Deputise for the Headteacher when required
We're looking for someone who:
* Has proven senior leadership experience and expert knowledge of SEND
* Is an outstanding practitioner with a track record of improving outcomes for learners with additional needs
* Can inspire, motivate and challenge others to deliver excellence
* Is strategic, reflective, resilient and committed to inclusive education
* A forward-thinking school and Trust with a strong commitment to inclusion
* The opportunity to shape a brand-new Integrated Resource from the ground up
* A highly supportive and ambitious Senior Leadership Team
* Permanent 1 FTE contract
* To start 01 September 2026
About Carleton High School
Carleton High School is a warm, welcoming and high-performing school with a strong community feel. We have a five-year track record of exceptional academic outcomes, placing us among the top schools in Wakefield. Our 2024 Ofsted inspection recognised us as "Good Improving", highlighting the significant progress we continue to make.
Our culture is built on improving life chances for every student, driven by our core values of respect, responsibility, determination, and excellence. We are proud to offer a modern, multi-million pound building with state-of-the-art facilities - making this an exciting time to join us.
As part of Pontefract Academies Trust, recently awarded the Trust Value Award for Excellence in the 2025 Edurio Awards, staff wellbeing and satisfaction are central to our work. At Carleton High School, 88% of staff said they would recommend us as a great place to work - well above national benchmark.
What We Offer
Be be part of a team that values your wellbeing, development and work-life balance. As a member of our school community, you'll benefit from:
* Exciting career and leadership pathways supported by outstanding CPD opportunities
* Everyday Development (EDD) Framework: a simple, personal and flexible goal-based approach to continuous learning, career growth and wellbeing.
* For the 2025-26 academic year, we have provided staff with three Everyday Development (EDD) days, the next is on Monday 20 July 2026. These development days offer self-directed time away from the workplace to recharge and reflect on your personal and career goals.
* Energise and Engage Weeks throughout the year, where no meetings take place before or after school. These dedicated weeks prioritise personal professional development, support work-life balance, and allow for an early finish.
* Laptop
* Fantastic family friendly policies with a focus on employee work-life balance
* Cycle to work scheme, Blue Light card, discounted gym membership
* Employee wellbeing programme (including physiotherapy, personal or professional concerns on legal, health, finance, wellbeing, and other matters)
* Discounts at numerous retailers including 02
* Free flu vaccinations
About Pontefract Academies Trust
Pontefract Academies Trust is a cross-phase multi-academy trust comprising of nine schools; seven primary and two secondary, committed to providing the very best education for our children and young people.
We are also excited to be merging with Ark Schools on 1st September 2026. This partnership will strengthen the support we offer our pupils and staff, while creating new opportunities for collaboration and professional development across both trusts.
We are proud of the positive culture across our schools. In the 2025 Edurio Staff Survey, we were ranked in the top 10 trusts nationally for staff satisfaction and received several awards recognising our supportive and values-driven working environment. Our staff tell us they feel valued, listened to and part of a team that makes a real difference every day.
Further Information and School Visits
Candidates are strongly encouraged to contact our Headteacher, Mrs Shariff, for an informal conversation about the role.
Potential candidates are also welcome to visit our school. This is a great opportunity to explore our facilities, meet our dedicated staff and get a feel for the vibrant community we have built. We look forward to welcoming you and answering any questions you may have.
To arrange either of these, please contact recruitment@carletonhigh.patrust.org.uk or call 01977 781555.
Key Dates
* Interviews to be held: Wednesday 22 April 2026
Application Process
* Complete an application form at pontefractacademiestrust.org.uk
* Complete the examinations results form that is required for this role.
* Attach the document in the 'Additional Information and Documents' section of your application within SAMPeople Recruit.
We are an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applications from everyone.
The Pontefract Academies Trust is wholly committed to the safeguarding of all children and young people whilst promoting their welfare.
Any offer of employment will be subject to receipt of a satisfactory DBS Enhanced Disclosure and pre-employment checks (including online checks). Shortlisted applicants will also be asked to provide a self-declaration form.
#J-18808-Ljbffr