Work where it matters most, achieve what matters more 

Be part of a team where passion meets purpose, as we work together where the challenge is greatest to change the lives and build the futures of children and young people. 

We are now looking to recruit an additional and exceptional individual to join our highly successful SEND team and help shape and develop provision and practice in SEND to secure better outcomes for over 30,000 pupils.

This is a very exciting time to join our team. Inclusion is at the heart of OAT’s ethos and values and, within that, outstanding provision and practice in SEND is pivotal to achieving success for all. The National Director of AP and Special Academies leads SEND across all key stages and is currently supported by the Senior Lead Practitioner for SEND and regional SEND Lead Practitioners who work together across our five regions.

This is a senior strategic role, and as a result, our expectations are high. Working directly with the Senior Lead Practitioner for SEND, you will provide advice, support and guidance to secondary school principals, SENCOs and leadership and inclusion teams across your regions.

You will be responsible for academies in the East Region, working with academy staff to co-ordinate, promote and deliver best practice in SEND.

The role will ensure that each academy provides an inclusive education, with a focus upon identification and assessment, high-quality teaching and interventions, funding and provision mapping, assistive technologies, access arrangements, statutory assessment and the SEND legal framework.

Other activities will include regional and national work including carrying out academy reviews, leading SENCO network meetings and delivering training and guidance for staff at all stages of their career from ECTs to SLTs.

About you

If you are passionate about making a difference to provision and outcomes for pupils with additional needs, this is the role for you!

We are looking for someone who has been a highly successful leader of SEND and/or SENCO, with extensive experience in inclusive best practice, statutory frameworks and national guidance. You will show a strong commitment to embedding current evidence-based approaches and keeping SEND provision aligned with ongoing national developments.

The successful candidate will have a proven track record in school improvement and delivering high quality training to inspire, motivate and challenge staff. Using exceptional communication skills, you will be able to demonstrate flexibility, creativity, and innovation to help schools achieve ambitious targets.

Why work for Ormiston? 

Our vision is to create a school system where every child thrives, regardless of background. Our people are at the heart of our approach – they are our greatest asset.  

We exist to provide the best learning opportunities every day, in every school for every child. It is the people and teams in our Trust who make this a reality and ensure we have the greatest impact. If you join us at Ormiston, whatever your role, your work will have purpose and meaning.

Ormiston, where every member of staff enjoys… 

• The opportunity to build on the legacy of those who came before – being part of one of the longest standing Trusts, created with the sole purpose of enabling children and young people to thrive 

• Working for a Trust nationally recognised for its impact on disadvantaged children – a rewarding, stimulating career where staff are challenged to be the best they can be, for the pupils we are proud to serve 

• Being part of a team and community where you belong – being part of a well-resourced and ambitious network of experts and professionals that work at the heart of communities 

• A supportive environment to grow your career – an extensive professional development programme, alongside flexible working arrangements and generous benefits 

Benefits that care for you 

We value your hard work and dedication, and we’re committed to ensuring you feel supported, both professionally and personally so that you are in the best position to make the most impact for the children and young people in our schools. 

When you join us at Ormiston, you can be certain that your work will have purpose and meaning. You can also expect robust and holistic support from us to enable you to excel in your role.

You will have access to an attractive benefits package including:

• School Teachers Pay and Conditions
• Teachers’ Pension Scheme
• Access to health and well-being programmes, including counselling service.
• Discounts on retail, travel, and leisure through our benefits platform. 
• Free and confidential legal, tax and health 24/7 helpline.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Automatic pay progression.
• Flexible working arrangements.

And much more as part of a leading multi-academy trust. 

Please contact the recruitment team recruitment@ormsitonacademies.co.uk with any queries about the role.

Please submit your application by 9am on 6 May, interviews will take place on 11th May. Within your personal statement, please explain why you would be an exceptional candidate for this position and how you meet the person specification.

Early applications are encouraged as we reserve the right to close the vacancy early should a suitable candidate be found.

Ormiston Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment. Ormiston Academies Trust embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity.  Flexible working opportunities will be considered. 

All successful appointments will be subject to suitability checks in accordance with KCSIE, including identity, Right to Work, qualifications, online searches, prohibition check, two references and enhanced DBS check including Children’s Barred List.

The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974. Guidance on the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the Exceptions Order 1975, which provides information about which convictions must be declared during job applications and related exceptions, can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/new-guidance-on-the-rehabilitation-of-offenders-act-1974