Overview
We are looking for a Lead Clinician - Practitioner Psychologist to manage our in-house Clinical Team at Bluebank School based in Derbyshire. The postholder will work collaboratively with both the school's Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and the Regional Clinical Lead. The role will be split between clinically leading the team and holding a therapy caseload. The postholder will deliver bespoke assessment and intervention plans for pupils who may present with complex profiles of need as a result of autism and other types of neurodivergence, developmental trauma and social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs. Meeting the needs of EHCP plans will be a primary focus in this role, target led, via the OFG all, group and individual clinical ways of working, embedded into our clinical practice. They will also be responsible for coordinating the line management of the onsite clinical team and leading on the service development of the clinical school-based service, alongside the school SLT and Regional Clinical Lead. Our Clinical Teams help maintain a person-centred, empowering approach, always putting the pupils we support at the forefront of everything they do. All our settings maintain a strong safeguarding culture, and the pupils we support are heard, respected, and involved in decisions that affect them. We strive for excellence, which is why we are one of the leading service providers in the UK. With this in mind, we are looking for a Lead Clinician who shares our vision to use innovative approaches to enhance the quality of life and outcomes of the pupils we support.
Location: Bluebank School - Derbyshire S41 8LQ – Bluebank School forms part of our Acorn Education brand, and is an independent specialist day school, supporting young people aged 11 - 16. Bluebank School opening Spring 2026.
Responsibilities
* Split role between clinically leading the on-site clinical team and managing a therapy caseload.
* Deliver bespoke assessment and intervention plans for pupils with complex needs (autism, neurodivergence, developmental trauma, SEMH).
* Work collaboratively with SLT and Regional Clinical Lead; coordinate line management of the onsite clinical team.
* Lead service development of the school-based clinical service; embed OFG clinical approaches (all, group, and individual) into practice.
* Maintain safeguarding emphasis and promote pupil involvement in decisions affecting them.
* Ensure alignment with EHCP requirements and school objectives.
Qualifications
* Doctorate or BPS stage 2 qualification; must be a registered psychologist with HCPC.
* Valid and up-to-date professional registration and membership of a professional body (e.g., BPS).
* Experience within the specialist client group; working with autistic individuals and/or those with complex needs.
* Clear and concise report writing related to clinical and research activities.
* Experience in providing supervision and supporting a therapy team.
* Ability to work independently and adapt in a growing clinical service; experience of multi-professional work within the designated specialty is preferred.
* Full UK valid driving licence and access to own vehicle.
Benefits and Conditions
Are you looking for an employer who offers opportunities for growth and development in your clinical career within a friendly multidisciplinary team in a rewarding education setting? You may have opportunities to participate in research projects, special interest groups, and form part of a wider clinical network that meets regularly for training and development. Flexibility and creative delivery of specialist assessments and interventions in an education setting are welcomed. Join an employer recognised as a Great Place to Work for the 5th year running, with options such as four days a week with full pay. Contract: Permanent (term time only, or flexibility around a full-time contract can be discussed).
* Outcomes First Group benefits include life assurance, pension options, wellbeing support, and a wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits.
* You'll work 80% of your contractual hours for 100% of your pay (4DWW; subject to probation).
* Family Growth Support – enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support; Cycle to Work Scheme; Electric Car Purchase Scheme; Critical illness cover.
Other information: We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All successful applicants will be subject to enhanced DBS checks and safeguarding checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. We reserve the right to close vacancies early. Job Ref: 287796
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