Lead practitioner for SEND (North/West)

About the role:

This is a very exciting time to join our team. Inclusion is at the heart of OAT’s ethos and values and, within that, outstanding provision and practice in SEND is pivotal to achieving success for all. The Director of inclusion leads SEND across all key stages and is currently supported by two regional SEND Lead Practitioners who work together across our four regions. We are now looking to recruit an additional and exceptional individual to join our highly successful SEND team and help shape and develop provision and practice in SEND to secure better outcomes for over 30,000 pupils.

The support and guidance you offer our staff will be vital in ensuring that all our pupils in all academies achieve success. You will use your passion, expertise, and extensive experience to drive forward improvements in the teaching and learning of pupils with SEND and in their access to and success with wider curriculum and enrichment opportunities. The role will involve working closely with SENCOs and academy staff at all stages of their career to develop practice and pedagogy and regular travel to Trust academies in our north and west regions will be necessary to do this. You will also be required to attend occasional team meetings in Birmingham or Peterborough.

This is a senior strategic role and as a result, our expectations are high.

The successful candidate will:

• be passionate about making a difference to provision and outcomes for pupils with additional needs
• be a highly successful SENCO and teacher of pupils with SEND in primary, secondary or specialist settings
• have extensive knowledge of best practice in SEND provision and practice and statutory frameworks
• have a proven track record in school improvement and delivering high quality training to inspire, motivate and challenge staff
• have exceptional communication skills and be able to demonstrate flexibility, creativity, and innovation
• be dynamic and enthusiastic with the vision and energy to help schools achieve ambitious targets

About the Trust:

Ormiston Academies Trust (OAT) is one of the largest not-for-profit multi-academy trusts in England. Our aim as a charity, alongside our schools, is to help provide local children with a great education. We educate over 30,000 pupils across five OAT regions in over 40 schools – currently 32 secondary schools, six primary schools, four alternative provision schools and one special school. We are one of the longest established Trusts and have been sponsoring academies since 2009. Our vision is for all young people to have access to the highest academic, social and practical skills required to achieve their full potential, whether going on to study at a leading university or entering the world of work. Our mission is to become the Trust that makes the biggest difference, both inside and outside the classroom. 

OAT is a great organisation to work for. In return for your commitment to us we offer:

• Excellent career prospects in a supportive environment.
• Commitment to your continued professional development.
• Membership of the Teacher Pension Scheme.
• Generous staff discounts on hundreds of well-known retail and leisure brands and gym memberships.
• Access to GPs and medical specialists.
• Counselling services for emotional support.
• Health cash plan for cash back on the costs of essential healthcare services (dentist, optician, etc.)

How to apply:

For more information please see the job description and person specification attached. 

Please contact Sara Peck, PA to Jane Nolan, Director of Inclusion, if you would like to arrange an informal discussion about the post at sara.peck@ormistonacademies.co.uk

To apply, please submit your completed application form using the online link. Within your letter of application, please explain why you would be an exceptional candidate for this position and how you meet the person specification. Please ensure you complete applications by 12pm Monday 26 September 2022.

Interviews will be held at a central location in Birmingham on Tuesday 4 October 2022. 

OAT is committed to safeguarding children; successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.