We are seeking an exceptional, values driven Assistant Principal who has leadership experience within the pastoral/SEND areas of school improvement. This could include leading improvements in attendance, behaviour, safeguarding and/or SEND. This is a critical role for a leader with both strategic vision and deep commitment to the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of all learners.

You will provide senior leadership for designated areas of the academy, ensuring that our systems are robust, our culture is nurturing, and every pupil is protected, supported, and able to learn free from harm or disadvantage. You will be committed to ensuring all children develop positive attitudes and behaviours towards their learning and that all thrive.

This is the perfect time to become a part of Team Denes. Our academy has been tenaciously driving improvements for our students and staff and this was recognised in March 2025 when Ofsted rated us “good” in all areas and commented that “staff are highly positive about working here”.

Key Responsibilities could include:

• The role of Designated Safeguarding Lead, driving all aspects of safeguarding policy and culture at the academy.
• Attendance Champion, leading the attendance team, shaping and ensuring the delivery of the academy’s attendance strategy.
• Transition from Year 6-7, ensuring students arrive at the academy ready for secondary education.Leading aspects of SEND and Inclusion so that universal, targeted and bespoke structures, systems and culture enable all to thrive and be successful.

About You:

We are looking for an experienced, values driven leader who:

• Has substantial experience in inclusion, safeguarding, attendance or SEND leadership and can demonstrate impact.
• Demonstrates excellent knowledge of statutory safeguarding frameworks and best practice.
• Builds trust quickly and communicates with clarity, empathy, and authority.
• Can develop and lead teams effectively during both routine practice and high ‑pressure safeguarding situations.
• Is relentless in their belief that every child deserves to feel safe, included, and able to achieve success.

Why work for Ormiston Academies Trust?  Work where it matters most, achieve what matters more

Our vision is for 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, you can be sure of a role with 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 – receiving bespoke and holistic support from 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

At Ormiston Denes Academy we place high value on staff development and with us, you would receive a comprehensive induction and training package, along with:

• Development for staff through nationally recognised training courses.
• Access to a range of resources and opportunities through our Academy Trust.
• Guidance, advice, and support from the senior leadership team who all want to make a positive difference to the education of all students at Ormiston Denes Academy.

If you are looking to work in a vibrant academy which expects high standards from students, places a high value on the professional development of its staff, and feel you have the qualities to meet the demands of this rewarding position then we wish to hear from you. 

We welcome visits to our academy from potential applicants. For further details, to book a visit or for an informal discussion with Charlotte Leeming - HR & Compliance Partner, please email cleeming@ormistondenes.co.uk or call 01502 509921.

Please apply before the closing date stated above, interviews will take place shortly after the closing date. Please note that the Academy withholds the right to withdraw the advert at any time or interview suitable candidates before the closing date.

Ormiston Denes Academy 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.

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 

All the academy policies can be found here: https://ormistondenes.co.uk/key-info/policies