At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance and were putting wellbeing first.
Thats why were proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, where you can work one day less each week (or equivalent hours), while still receiving your full-time pay.
Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW and others are preparing to roll it out as soon as they reach full staffing. Job Title: Pastoral Manager
Abbey Gardens School, Bury St Edmunds, IP32 6SA
Salary: Up to 30,000 per annum depending experience (Not pro rata)
5 hours per week | Monday to Friday | 08:15 - 15:45
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
At Abbey Gardens School, part of Acorn Education, were not just building a new school were building a new future for the young people who walk through our doors. Many of our pupils have faced complex challenges, and were here to provide the stability, care, and structure they need to thrive.
Now were looking for a Pastoral Manager who is compassionate, confident, and committed to making a real impact in the lives of children and young people.
This isnt just a pastoral role its a chance to be a consistent, caring presence for young people who need it most.
As Pastoral Manager, youll lead the way in creating a school environment where every pupil feels respected, heard, and supported. From day-to-day pastoral care to behaviour planning and emotional regulation, youll be a vital part of every young persons journey.
Youll work hand-in-hand with the Head of Education, teaching staff, and therapists to shape a nurturing space built on trust, encouragement, and positive relationships.
Leading daily pastoral care across the school, ensuring every pupil feels safe and supported
Supporting young people in crisis, helping them regulate emotions and re-engage with learning
Guiding staff on effective inclusion strategies and positive behaviour support techniques
Building strong, trusting relationships with pupils, families, and external professionals
Collaborating with the Head of Education to maintain a safe, therapeutic, and inclusive school environment
Championing wellbeing, dignity, and inclusion at every level of school life
Helping pupils grow emotionally, socially, and academically both inside and outside the classroom
A passionate pastoral leader with experience supporting children or young people ideally in a SEN, SEMH, or trauma-informed setting
A genuine belief that every child deserves a fresh start and the opportunity to thrive
Full UK Driving Licence
Abbey Gardens is an exciting new addition to the Acorn Education family, set to open its doors in March/April 2026. Designed to support students aged 11 to 18, the school will offer a nurturing and inclusive learning environment tailored to meet the diverse needs of its pupils.
As part of Acorn Education, Abbey Gardens will benefit from a strong foundation of expertise in delivering high-quality education and support, helping pupils thrive both academically and personally.
Acorn Education is the UKs leading independent provider of specialist education. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in setting and delivering new approaches that provide measurable outcomes for those in our care.
Why join Acorn Education?
We place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, so youll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact on the lives of others.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
Life Assurance
Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions
Your Wellbeing Matters access to a wide range of first-class mental health support services and physical health checks
And a market-leading benefit offering through our Flexible Benefits Platform, Vista, enables you to choose the package thats right for you, including:
~ A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits
~100s of discount options valid in the UK and abroad
~ Cycle to Work Schemes
~ Electric Car Purchase Scheme
~ Critical illness cover
~ Family Growth Support - inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support.
4DWW will be rolled out within our school, when we have a full complement of staff so theres never been a more exciting time to join us #teamOFG!*
Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.