An opportunity has arisen for a Phase Leader at JRS within Maiden Erlegh Trust. This role combines high-quality classroom teaching with leadership and management of an allocated phase. The postholder will lead with a positive, solution-focused approach, ensuring strong pupil outcomes, high standards of teaching, and effective implementation of school and Trust priorities. The role includes line management of colleagues, oversight of phase provision, and a clear focus on improving outcomes for all pupils.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and secure high-quality teaching and learning across the phase, ensuring strong pupil progress
• Line manage teachers within the phase, including performance management and professional development
• Monitor curriculum implementation and pupil outcomes, using assessment data to inform interventions
• Promote high expectations of behaviour, attendance and pupil wellbeing
• Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) and support effective safeguarding practice
• Lead pastoral support and inclusion, including responsibility for vulnerable pupils and Looked After Children
• Coordinate transition processes and support pupils across key stages
• Contribute to whole-school improvement priorities and uphold Trust policies and ethos
• Maintain effective communication with families, colleagues and external stakeholders
• Support a positive, collaborative culture within the phase team

The ideal candidate

• Qualified Teacher Status
• Strong understanding of effective teaching and learning, including early years pedagogy
• Proven ability to lead, support and develop colleagues
• Ability to use assessment and data effectively to improve outcomes
• Strong behaviour management and commitment to high expectations
• Experience of pastoral support and inclusive practice
• Effective communication and collaboration skills
• Strong organisational and planning skills
• Commitment to safeguarding, equality and the welfare of children and young people

 About John Rankin School

The school where you grow and learn. Our job is not to prepare learners for something; our job is to help learners prepare themselves for anything. Life always bring challenge – we will develop brave and resilient individuals prepared for any every-changing world. Our vision and values are at the core of everything we do. They underpin our teaching and learning and provide an environment which prepares our pupils as confident, happy citizens. Please see link to school website  John Rankin School

At the core of everything we do is our values, Courage, Creativity, Curiosity, Compassion and Composure.

 About Maiden Erlegh Trust

Maiden Erlegh Trust is a growing community of schools across Berkshire and Oxfordshire, working together to deliver the best possible education for every child and young person. With around 800 staff and 5,000 students across eleven schools, including primary, secondary, special and alternative provision, we are proud of the diversity that shapes our expertise.

We Aim High, Be Inclusive and Work Together. These values drive our focus on high-quality education for all through collaboration, inclusion and continuous improvement.

Through the Maiden Erlegh Institute, colleagues access high-quality professional learning at every stage of their career, supported by mentoring, leadership opportunities and our annual MET Staff Conference, a day that brings colleagues together to share best practice and learn from one another.

Joining our Trust means being part of a community that invests in people and values expertise, playing a direct role in shaping the lives and outcomes of young people.

Further information about working with us, and insight from colleagues across the Trust, can be found here on our website.

Benefits of Working with Maiden Erlegh Trust

Staff wellbeing and professional development are central to how we work. Colleagues benefit from a wide range of opportunities and schemes, including :

Pension Scheme – Generous employer contributions through the Teachers’ Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme

Annual Leave – Generous entitlement, increasing with length of service

ME Day – One additional day’s leave each year for a significant personal event

Professional Development – Extensive CPD through the Maiden Erlegh Institute, annual Trust Conference and apprenticeship opportunities

Hybrid Working – Flexible working arrangements for eligible roles

Perkbox – Discounts, wellbeing resources and monthly perk points

Wellbeing and Health – Free flu vaccinations and eye tests (where eligible)

Employee Assistance Programme – 24/7 support and discount schemes

Mental Health First Aid Support

Recognition and Community – Celebrating achievements and milestones across #TeamMET

Employee Referral Scheme

Working for our Trust means contributing to something larger by supporting the education and life chances of children and young people every day.

Additional Information

If you believe this is an environment where you can thrive, develop and make a meaningful contribution, please contact recruitment@maidenerleghtrust.org for an informal discussion.

Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as we reserve the right to close the advert and interview at any time.

Maiden Erlegh Trust is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references