An exciting opportunity to shape inclusive excellence

Chatham Grammar is seeking to appoint an ambitious, passionate and experienced leader to establish and lead our Specialist Resource Provision (SRP) for pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), which is scheduled to open in September 2026. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to design and grow a provision from its inception, beginning with a cohort of 5 pupils in September 2026 and developing over time into a centre of excellence supporting up to 30 pupils. The Teaching and Responsibility Payment for this role is set at TRP 2b on appointment and will increase incrementally on an annual basis to TRP 1b over a five-year period, in line with the phased growth and development of the provision.

The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping inclusive practice across the school, ensuring that pupils with autism are supported to thrive academically, socially and emotionally within a mainstream environment. The role requires a clear vision for inclusive education, a strong commitment to high standards, and the ability to lead and inspire both staff and students. 

As Head of SRP, you will lead the strategic development of the provision, establishing effective systems, structures and practice that enable pupils to succeed. You will create a safe, structured and nurturing environment with high expectations for behaviour and achievement, while ensuring that pupils are supported to access the mainstream curriculum wherever appropriate. You will oversee specialist teaching, develop personalised learning plans and targeted interventions, and work closely with families and a range of external professionals, including Educational Psychologists, Speech and Language Therapists and Occupational Therapists.

The role also includes responsibility for line managing and developing SRP staff, contributing to whole-school improvement, and promoting a strong culture of inclusion across the school through training and collaboration. There is an initial teaching commitment of approximately 50%, which will reduce as the provision grows.

We are looking for a highly effective classroom practitioner with experience of working with pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorder and a strong understanding of SEND legislation and EHCP processes. You will bring leadership experience, excellent communication skills, and the ability to build strong relationships with students, families, colleagues and external agencies. You will be committed to inclusion, have high expectations of all learners, and be motivated by the opportunity to develop and grow a new provision. Additional qualifications or training in SEND or autism would be advantageous but are not essential.

Chatham Grammar (CG) is a selective girls’ academy for students aged 11-19, with a mixed sixth form, sponsored by the University of Kent. From September 2026, CG will begin its transition to a fully coeducational academy by welcoming boys into Year 7. Driven by ambition, CG is committed to inspiring every student to achieve their full potential. As part of the University of Kent Academies Trust, students enjoy unique opportunities with the University, including mentoring from student ambassadors, campus visits, tailored curriculum programmes, international links, and a wide range of enrichment activities that support both academic and personal development.

Benefits of Working for UKAT

At UKAT we are committed to supporting the well-being, development, and professional fulfilment of all our staff.

• Professional and Workplace: Apple technology and equipment*, comfortable workspaces, competitive salary with generous pension, relocation support, employee referral scheme, and access to Trust-wide professional development and leadership pathways.
•  Financial Wellbeing: Retirement planning, budget support, and interest-free loans
•  Health and Lifestyle: On-site gym, free Benenden Health cover, yoga, cycle-to-work, and eyecare schemes
•  Mental Health and Emotional Support: Free counselling, mindfulness courses, hypnotherapy, talking therapies, and on-site Mental Health First Aid
•  Community and Social: Staff groups, clubs, and Trust-wide events that foster a strong sense of community

How to Apply

Your application should be completed after reading the job description and person specification. Please use the application form to demonstrate how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role, and why you believe you are a strong candidate. We are committed to attracting top talent to our inclusive Trust and welcome applications from all members of the community, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, disability, gender reassignment, age, or sexual orientation.

Please note that CVs will not be accepted. 

We reserve the right to interview and appoint candidates prior to the closing date.

Early applications are strongly encouraged.

The University of Kent Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.  Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).  In addition, the Trust will carry out an online search, once, as part of our due diligence on shortlisted candidates.  This is intended to help us identify any incidents or issues that have happened and are publicly available online.  The selection panel will then explore such items with the candidate during interview.  The Trust’s HR Team or another member of staff trained in safer recruitment, will use Google.com to conduct each search and no adverse judgement will be formed for applicants with limited or online footprint.