Job Description
Pastoral Leads - September 2026 Opportunities (SEMH & Specialist Settings)East Kent & Surrounding Areas
Are you an experienced OR aspiring Pastoral Lead or Behaviour Lead looking for your next move this September?
We are already working with a number of specialist SEN and SEMH schools across East Kent who are planning their leadership structures for September 2026. As a result, we are keen to speak with experienced pastoral professionals ready to take on a whole-school impact role.
The Opportunities
Our partner schools include SEMH provisions, alternative provisions, and specialist SEN settings supporting pupils with:
* Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs
* Trauma and attachment difficulties
* Autism and complex needs
* Challenging behaviour and emotional dysregulation
Typical responsibilities include:
* Leading behaviour and pastoral strategy across the school
* Embedding trauma-informed and restorative approaches
* Supporting and line managing behaviour/pastoral teams
* Working closely with safeguarding, families, and external agencies
* Driving improvements in attendance, behaviour, and pupil wellbeing
We're Looking For
* Experience in SEMH, alternative provision, or specialist SEN settings
* Previous responsibility for behaviour, pastoral care, or inclusion
* Strong leadership presence with the ability to de-escalate and support high-level behaviours
* A calm, resilient and relational approach
* Ambition to progress within middle or senior leadership
Teaching qualification is welcomed but not essential - we are open to candidates from SEN education, youth work, residential care, and therapeutic backgrounds.
Why Speak With Us?
* Access to September roles before they are widely advertised
* Honest, confidential career advice
* Schools we meet with regularly and know inside out
* Support with CVs, interview preparation, and leadership progression
If you are considering a move for September and want to explore Pastoral Lead opportunities within specialist settings, get in touch for a confidential conversation.
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