Assistant Headteacher - SENCo & Inclusion Lead

At OFG, we work smarter so you can spend more time doing what makes you happy!Assistant Head Teacher - SENCo & Inclusion LeadLocation:Strawberry Lane School, Durham,DH6 5BESalary: 43,000 per annum (not pro rata)Hours: 37.5 hours per week | Monday to FridayContract: Permanent, Term Time OnlyStart date: January 2026UK Applicants only. This role does not offer sponsorship.At Strawberry Lane School, we dont just teach we transform lives. Were a specialist setting for young people with Autism and complex needs, and we believe in unlocking every students potential through expert teaching, deep care, and relentless ambition. We are seeking a passionate and experienced Assistant Headteacher for SEND & Inclusion, who will also take on SENCO responsibilities, to join our Senior Leadership Team.About the RoleThis pivotal leadership role supports the Headteacher in delivering a high-quality education service in line with school vision and regulatory standards. As Assistant Headteacher, youll drive the SEND and Inclusion agenda, leading policy and provision that transforms lives. Youll work hand-in-hand with our clinical therapy team and wider stakeholders to raise attainment and deliver personalised, high-quality education.With up to 50% teaching time, youll model exceptional practice and champion safeguarding as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead.Key ResponsibilitiesLead SEND provision, policy, and EHCP oversightensuring full compliance with SEN Code of PracticeChair EHCP and PEP meetings, collaborating with families, carers, and professionalsShape accessible, personalised curriculum pathways for every pupilDeliver staff training and champion best practice in SEND and inclusionDrive school-wide high standards alongside the Senior Leadership TeamUse data strategically to monitor and boost pupil progressLead and manage SEND staff and interventionsPlay a key role in safeguarding as a Deputy DSLSupport smooth transitions for students entering and leaving the schoolBuild strong partnerships with parents, carers, and external agenciesWhat Were Looking ForQualified Teacher Status (QTS) holderSENCo National Award holder or willing to complete itExperienced working with children/young people with Autism and complex needsProven leader in staff training and performance managementExceptional communicator and collaborator with families and professionalsStrategic thinker with excellent organisational skillsCommitted to safeguarding and promoting pupil welfareResilient, adaptable, and confident working independently and in a teamDesirableSenior leadership or SENCo experienceDeputy Safeguarding Lead experienceExperience with young people from challenging backgroundsDriving licenceAbout usStrawberry Lane School, located in Bowburn, Durham, is a brand-new specialist school accommodating 60 pupils aged 1119 with a primary need of Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), communication and language needs, and often additional complex needs.The school is dedicated to empowering every learner and embracing every strength, providing a nurturing and inclusive educational environment where autistic young people can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.For over 16 years Options Autism have provided care and education to pupils, young people and adults with autism, complex needs and learning difficulties. We are a leading provider of education for neurodivergent young people and young adults. 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 careWe are really proud to say that in 2024, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a Great Place to Work for the fifth year running.Why join Options Autism?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 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.BenefitsYour health and wellbeing are important to us, so youll get an exceptional reward package including:Life AssurancePension scheme with options to increase your contributionsYour Wellbeing Matters access to a wide range of first-class mental health support services and physical health checksAnd 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 benefits100s of discount options valid in the UK and abroadCycle to Work SchemesElectric Car Purchase SchemeCritical illness coverFamily Growth Support - inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with 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.#1

Created: 2025-10-12