Deputy Principal (Maternity Cover)

Newbridge Lower Academy – Part of Astrum Multi‑Academy Trust
Leadership Scale L14–18 | Part‑time (80%) | Fixed‑term Maternity Cover

Are you an inspiring leader with a passion for transforming the lives of pupils with complex SEND?
Do you thrive in a collaborative, values‑driven environment where innovation, compassion and ambition are at the heart of everything we do?

If so, Newbridge Lower Academy would love to hear from you.

Newbridge Lower Academy is a warm, nurturing and highly specialist school committed to providing exceptional education for pupils with severe and profound learning difficulties, autistic spectrum conditions and associated needs. We are proud to be part of the Astrum Multi‑Academy Trust, a forward‑thinking SEND trust renowned for high‑quality provision, strong professional development pathways and a culture of belonging.

Our team is passionate, reflective and relentlessly child‑centred — and we are looking for a Deputy Principal who shares these values.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced SEND leader to make a significant impact across our school community during a period of maternity leave.

In this key leadership role, you will:

• Work in close partnership with the Principal, CEO and senior leaders to shape and drive the strategic direction of the school
• Model exceptional classroom practice and champion high‑quality teaching and learning
• Lead on key aspects of curriculum, safeguarding (as Deputy DSL), and EHCP/Annual Review processes
• Inspire, coach and develop staff so they can deliver their best every day
• Strengthen partnerships with families, therapists, external agencies and the wider community
• Contribute to the continued growth, innovation and excellence of our Trust

This is a role where your leadership will genuinely change lives.

We’re seeking someone who is:

• An outstanding, reflective practitioner with substantial SEND experience
• A confident leader able to motivate, influence and empower others
• Skilled in curriculum design, assessment and high‑quality provision for pupils with complex needs
• Knowledgeable about national SEND frameworks, safeguarding, and inclusive practice
• Warm, resilient, solution‑focused and deeply committed to children’s wellbeing
• Someone who leads with integrity, compassion and high expectations

If you are ambitious for your pupils, your colleagues and yourself, you will fit right in.

Astrum Vision & Values

At Astrum, our purpose is clear: to improve the life chances of every child and young person by securing the highest standards of teaching and learning. This commitment sits at the core of everything we do, from classroom practice to leadership decisions, communication and community engagement.

Across Astrum, our work is shaped by five core values.

We expect all staff to live these values every day and bring them to life in their leadership, teaching and relationships

Compassion - We act with empathy and understanding, supporting each other through challenges.

·      Collaboration - We work together, valuing every voice and building strong partnerships.

·      Innovation - We embrace creativity and seek new ways to improve and adapt.

·      Ambition - We set high standards and strive for excellence in everything we do.

·      Belonging - We create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

       These values guide how we lead, how we support each other, and how we make decisions that place our pupils at the centre of everything.

Why join us?

• Employee Assistance & Wellbeing Programme
• Generous Pension Schemes
• Family-friendly working policies
• Extensive support and development opportunities
• Refer a friend scheme
• Free onsite parking
• Free tea and coffee
• Great location close to TfL Elizabeth and Central Lines
• And more…

Astrum values diversity, inclusion and equality of opportunity for all staff, and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.    We celebrate and embrace unique individuality, background and heritage.

We are a ‘Disability Confident Employer’ and all our application forms hide your personal information so we can focus solely on your experience, skills and qualities. 

We believe in fostering a work environment that supports work-life balance. We are open to flexible working arrangements, including remote work, flexible hours, and part-time opportunities.

The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to actively share this commitment. All appointments will be subject to pre-employment checks, including an enhanced check with the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS), as well as online searches, in line with Safer Recruitment guidance and the need to maintain a safe culture.

We reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the advert closing date.  With this in mind, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.