Interim Principal Designate and Transitions Lead

About the school:

The Vanguard School based in Lambeth is an exciting new school which will support the National Autistic Society vision, to create a society that works for autistic people. The aim of the school is to help prepare young students to make a successful transition into adulthood with the confidence and the necessary skills to live independently, gain paid employment and participate in their local community. We aim to deliver the highest level of education to ensure the best life chances become a sustainable reality for every young person. Together, we will create a safe, positive and structured environment in which every young person is respected and encouraged to achieve independence (through academic, employment and personal skills development).

Who we are looking for:

We are seeking to appoint an Interim Principal Designate and Transitions Lead to prepare the school for opening in January 2020. You will be responsible for  supporting the planning of the school, recruitment of staff, developing true community links with employers, a range of local partnerships, community groups, parents and local authorities. 

You will support the Principal in the Autumn Term 2019 through to completion of the building and mentor and support them through the first term of operation, Spring term 2020. 

This is a fixed term role for 2 Academic Terms starting from 01 April 2019. The temporary base until the school opens will be Flexible.

About us:

The National Autistic Society is here to transform lives, change attitudes and create a society that works for autistic people. We transform lives by providing support, information and practical advice for the 700,000 autistic adults and children in the UK, as well as their three million family members and carers. Since 1962, autistic people have turned to us at key moments or challenging times in their lives, be it getting a diagnosis, going to school or finding work. We change attitudes by improving public understanding of autism and the difficulties many autistic people face. We also work closely with businesses, local authorities and government to help them provide more autism-friendly spaces, deliver better services and improve laws.

We have come a long way, but there is still so much to do to, together we can help create a society that works for autistic people.

Hours of work:

You are contracted to work 195 days per annum including 190 pupil days in accordance with your school terms and work programmes, and a maximum of 1265 hours as reasonably directed by the Director of Education. Normal hours may be varied to meet the changing needs of the school. There may be occasions when additional hours are necessary to meet specific or special requirements.

What we can offer you:

• Excellent induction, training and development programme including Autism specific interventions and National Autistic Society conference opportunities
• Reflective supervision, mentoring and coaching
• 24 hour access to online training
• Online staff discount scheme for a range of benefits (e.g. cycle to work schemes)
• Season ticket loans
• Access to a 24 hour Employee Assistance counselling programme
• Teachers’ Pension scheme
• Annual leave entitlement of 12 weeks inclusive of bank holidays
• Career progression opportunities

How to apply:

• To apply for this role please click the “Apply” button below
• When completing the supporting statement, please refer to the job description and person specification and highlight any information that shows your suitability for the role.
• For more information about this job please email Director of Education Development, Dr Jacqui Ashton Smith, Jacqui.AshtonSmith@nas.org.uk

Applications for this role are sought from anyone who is suitably qualified and experienced for the role but particularly welcome from those with a diagnosis of autism or Asperger syndrome. We are an equal opportunities employer.

Closing date: 09/11/2018
Interview date (w/c): 10/12/2018

The NAS and NAS ACADEMIES TRUST is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and adults who use our services and as such expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to complete the relevant safeguarding checks.

NAS Charity number 269425 (England and Wales); SC039427 (Scotland)
NAS ACADEMIES TRUST Company number 7954396 (A charity by statute) 

The National Autistic Society
Until everyone understands
VAT registration number: 653370050; registered as a charity in England and Wales (269425) and in Scotland (SC039427) © The National Autistic Society 2016

Job reference: 003211