Assistant Head Teacher

As Assistant Head Teacher at Oversands School, part of the Witherslack Group, you’ll have the chance to lead and shape our school and deliver the kind of education you always wanted to.  Working as part of the senior leadership team, you will help to set the vision for the future of the school, ensuring we have the right people and plans in place to see that our young people – whatever their needs – leave the school feeling proud of what they’ve achieved and what they’re capable of. And with the backing of the broader management team, a range of supporting specialists and a plan to greatly enhance our school environment, we know we’re all set for a bright future.

That’s why we’re looking for someone who’s pretty unique. Experience as a SENCO is desirable and we are also keen to recruit an outstanding teacher specialising in Maths, English or Science who can continue to model this to colleagues in our setting through your teaching commitment. A genuine passion and working knowledge of SEN in terms of practice and also legislative frameworks is desirable, however, applications from candidates working in mainstream education are welcomed and any successful applicants will receive full training and development. We are also keen to take people forward to interview who can evidence that they have experience of closing the gaps in learning in learners experiencing challenge, particularly in core learning areas. As importantly, you’re someone who is resilient, innovative and has the type of enthusiasm that’s infectious, so that you bring about change in a positive way. You’re also sensitive, respectfully challenging, patient and kind: just the type of leader our students, staff and community can relate to.

For children and young people with complex, challenging needs, the level of care and education must go above and beyond. That’s what drives us, here at Oversands School and Witherslack Group. We are a leading provider of specialist education and care for children and young people with social, emotional and mental health needs, communication difficulties (autistic spectrum conditions, Asperger’s Syndrome, speech, language and communication needs), complex learning needs and challenging behaviours.  We have a reputation for excellence and of achieving the highest possible outcomes. We also have the highest standard of safeguarding practice and any successful candidate MUST be willing to promote and model this ethos in their work with adults and young people.

Oversands School is an independent, specialist residential and day school in rural Cumbria, providing high quality education for girls and boys aged 8 to 19.  The school meets the needs of a diverse group of pupils with challenging behaviours, alongside a range of other associated conditions which can hinder academic progress.

Reward

We know you’re going to do great things. For your hard work and commitment, we want to reward you with a salary and benefits package that’s among the best in our sector. You’ll receive a competitive salary, Teacher Pension Scheme or a range of flexible pension options to suit personal circumstances(where applicable) and comprehensive induction and ongoing training, as well as extensive Group staff benefits such as Medicash Health Plan/Employee Assistance and Cycle to Work Scheme. Witherslack conducts DBS Enhanced checks and covers the costs for all new employees.

For an informal discussion about the role please contact Helen Park – Office Manager on 015395 52604.

The Witherslack Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of its young people. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. We are an equal opportunities employer welcoming applications from all sections of the community.

For a full job description and person specification, please see the attached document.