The role
will drive the development of a whole-school trauma-informed approach, aligning behaviour, safeguarding and wellbeing systems to meet pupils’ needs consistently across both primary and secondary phases.
The postholder will oversee key pastoral processes, including MDT meetings, behaviour and wellbeing tracking, pupil voice and strategies to prevent bullying, discrimination and racism. They will ensure systems are consistent, evidence-informed and focused on improving outcomes for pupils across all key stages.
As a senior leader, the Deputy Headteacher Pastoral will contribute to whole-school improvement and undertake additional duties as directed by the Headteacher
What you'll be doing
1. Provide strategic leadership for pastoral care across the whole school (5–18), embedding a consistent, trauma-informed approach
2. Lead the development and implementation of behaviour, anti-bullying and anti-racism strategies across all phases
3. Chair Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) meetings and coordinate effective support for pupils with complex SEMH needs
4. Oversee behaviour, wellbeing and SEMH tracking systems across the school, using data and pupil voice to inform interventions
5. Quality assure pastoral practice across all key stages, including Form Time, behaviour systems and safeguarding processes
6. Work closely with the Designated Safeguarding Lead to ensure pupils feel safe, supported and included
7. Line manage pastoral staff across primary and secondary phases, ensuring consistency of practice and high standards
8. Oversee examinations (AY 2025/26), pupil transport arrangements and daily staff cover to ensure smooth operational running
9. Contribute to whole-school leadership and model the professional standards expected across the school
What you'll bring
If you are driven by the belief that pastoral excellence transforms lives, and you are ready to lead with empathy, clarity and ambition, we would love to hear from you.
10. Holds QTS and brings significant leadership experience, most likely gained at senior leadership level within a school setting
11. Demonstrates a strong track record of leading and improving pastoral systems at scale
12. Brings expertise in SEMH, trauma-informed practice and behaviour leadership
13. Has experience of leading whole-school pastoral systems across multiple phases (desirable)
14. Thrives in multi-agency environments and can lead complex pastoral systems
15. Is analytical, organised and committed to safeguarding and inclusion
A leadership qualification (NPQSL/NPQH), experience in specialist or alternative provision and familiarity with behaviour-tracking systems are desirable.
About Us
Belmont Secondary School is an independent specialist school in Rawtenstall for boys aged 11–18 with SEMH needs, easily commutable from Bury, Burnley and surrounding areas.
We provide a trauma-informed, nurturing environment where every pupil feels safe, understood, and supported. Small classes, personalised pathways, and on-site therapeutic support help build confidence, resilience, and essential life skills. Our broad curriculum blends academic, vocational, and creative opportunities to prepare pupils for a successful future.
Acorn Education offers rewarding careers and meaningful challenges while making a real difference in young people’s lives. As a leading UK provider of specialist education for children and young people with special educational needs, and part of Outcomes First Group, we deliver innovative, evidence-based approaches that support measurable progress and lasting impact.
We are really proud to say that in 2025 Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the sixth year running.
Why Join Us?
We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to the 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.
16. Life Assurance
17. Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
18. “Your Wellbeing Matters” – mental health support and physical health checks
19. Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including:Health, wellbeing and insurance benefitsHundreds of UK and international discountsCycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase SchemeCritical illness coverFamily Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.
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