Assistant Headteacher - SEND and Inclusive Practice

About this Role

The Kingston Academy has an exciting opportunity for an experienced individual to undertake the role of Assistant Headteacher with responsibility for SEND and Inclusive Practice, joining our successful and forward-thinking leadership team. You will play a key strategic role in shaping and leading a truly inclusive culture and ensuring that every student receives the support they need to thrive, both academically and personally.

You will be a passionate and skilled leader with a deep understanding of inclusion and SEND provision, and a proven ability to drive high standards for all learners. As part of the Senior Leadership Team, you will contribute to whole-school improvement planning, while leading a dedicated team of professionals to secure outstanding outcomes for students with additional needs. You will also champion inclusive practice and ensure it remains central to the ethos and vision of the school.

The Kingston Academy is an outstanding Secondary School in North Kingston, which opened for the first time in September 2015 with a cohort of Year 7 pupils. TKA has received a substantial capital grant for the refurbishment of the existing educational facilities and for additional new modern buildings which we have now taken possession of. Our mission is to provide a world-class education for all the young people within our community to ensure that every pupil is safe, happy and succeeds. We now have over 1000 pupils across the seven year groups from year 7 to year 13.

We invite applications from candidates with the following attributes for this role:

• Experience of the role of SENDCO in current or previous role;
• A proven track record of leadership and management;
• National SENDCO Award (or the ambition to undertake this award to commence within 12 months of assuming the role;
• Passionate about making a difference to the lives of children;
• Is resilient, reflective and solution focused.

Benefits of working at The Kingston Academy:

• Generous pay-scales, regularly paying 1% higher than National teacher Pay Scales;
• 2-week October Half Term break;
• Access to subsidised Cycle to Work scheme;
• Weekly Professional Development sessions at whole-school and departmental level;
• Professional support sessions for ECTs;
• Staff Laptop or Chromebook;
• Support with access to NPQH/NPQML/NPQSL qualifications;
• Subsidised study at Kingston University at Masters and Doctorate Level;
• Flexible working arrangements may be considered on request;
• Access to the Employees Assistance Programme, subsidised eye test and flu vaccinations;
• Work in a vibrant, supportive school environment where staff wellbeing is prioritised.

More details on the job description and person specification are provided in the candidate information pack.

Interview Procedure

Our selection procedure will aim to identify with rigour whether the candidate fulfils the requirements of the post and will include the consideration of the candidate's suitability to work with children and young people.

The process will include:

• Teaching an observed lesson to a full class of pupils
• Meeting with a panel of our pupils for informal question and answer session;
• Exercise(s) with members of the Senior Leadership Team and Inclusion Team;
• Panel interview with Head Teacher, Senior Leaders and one additional Trust Board member, in the context of which candidates will be required to deliver a presentation on a pre-specified topic.

Early applications are welcome, and we reserve the right to appoint before the closing date if we find a suitable candidate.

Closing Date for Applications: 8.00 am, Monday 30th June 2025

Interview Date: To be confirmed

Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment Statement

The Kingston Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment and undergo appropriate checks, including enhanced DBS checks (with a barred list check for regulated activity), checks with past employers and eligibility to work in the UK. Identity and qualification documents will be checked prior to any offer being made.

Equal Opportunities

At The Kingston Academy, we believe that diversity enriches our school community and enhances the educational experience for all. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment that respects and celebrates the unique background, perspectives, and talents of our staff and students. We welcome applicants from all walks of life and are dedicated to providing equal opportunities for everyone. Join us in fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion where every individual is valued and empowered to thrive.

We look forward to receiving your application.