At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead inclusive practices and support SEND provision in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Join a dynamic East London infant school committed to nurturing and inclusive education.
- Benefits: Enjoy outstanding CPD pathways, career progression, and a supportive staff team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while shaping inclusive excellence in education.
- Qualifications: QTS, experience in primary settings, and a passion for inclusive leadership required.
- Other info: Opportunity for a confidential chat about your career path and potential roles.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
A unique leadership opportunity to shape inclusive excellence in Early Years and KS1.
Salary: Inner London Leadership Scale L4–L8
Location: Barking and Dagenham
Interviews: Week commencing 19th May 2025
This is more than a leadership role – it’s a chance to transform lives. An outstanding East London infant school, part of a dynamic and forward-thinking federation, is seeking an inspiring Assistant Headteacher with a passion for Inclusion. This is a pivotal role in a setting that believes inclusion is not just a policy, it is a way of being.
The successful candidate will lead on all aspects of SEND and inclusive practice, ensuring that every child thrives and achieves, regardless of their starting point. Serving a richly diverse community, the school is renowned for its nurturing ethos, ambitious curriculum, and commitment to professional excellence. It is a place where early education is taken seriously, where emotional literacy and belonging sit at the heart of the learning environment, and where leadership at all levels is cultivated and celebrated.
This role is ideal for an experienced SENCO or senior leader who wants to lead system-wide change and be part of an innovative team driving inclusive practice both within the school and beyond. You will work closely with the senior leadership team and external professionals to lead strategic development of provision for pupils with SEND, EAL, and other vulnerabilities, and will play a key role in shaping culture, policy, and pedagogy.
Are you a leader who can:
- Champion inclusion across the whole school community with vision, integrity, and rigour
- Lead and develop high-quality SEND provision that secures exceptional outcomes
- Empower staff through coaching, collaboration, and professional development
- Foster outstanding partnerships with families, external agencies, and local services
- Work strategically within a values-led federation, contributing to wider school improvement
- Bring deep knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and a commitment to continual learning
You will need:
- QTS and substantial experience in a primary/infant setting
- The National Award for SENCOs (or willingness to undertake it)
- A track record of impact in inclusive leadership and/or SEND coordination
- Emotional intelligence, resilience, and an unwavering belief in every child’s potential
In return, the school offers:
- Joyful, articulate, and curious children who love learning
- A passionate, talented staff team committed to equity and excellence
- Outstanding CPD pathways and support for career progression
- The unique opportunity to shape inclusion in a school with a national and international reach
- A collaborative, forward-looking federation that values innovation and invests in people
This is a career-defining opportunity for a leader who believes that inclusion is the cornerstone of excellence in education. If you're ready to make a genuine difference, we’d love to hear from you.
Curious to know more? Get in touch for a confidential chat. Whether this is the role or one of several exciting next steps, we can explore what’s right for you.
You can:
- Respond to this advert
- Call Elisha on 0203 011 4848
- Or upload your CV via our website
Now is the perfect time to explore the opportunities your experience has made possible.
Assistant Headteacher - Inclusion employer: PARKER SMITH INCLUSION
Contact Detail:
PARKER SMITH INCLUSION Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Headteacher - Inclusion
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the SEND Code of Practice and current inclusive practices. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to inclusion, which is a core value for us.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of inclusion and SEND. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to connect with others who share your passion, as these connections can provide valuable insights and recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've championed inclusion in your previous roles. Highlighting your impact on student outcomes will resonate well with our leadership team.
✨Tip Number 4
Research our school’s ethos and values thoroughly. Understanding our commitment to nurturing and inclusive education will allow you to align your vision with ours during discussions.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Headteacher - Inclusion
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and requirements. Highlight your experience in inclusion and SEND, as this is a pivotal aspect of the role.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your relevant experience in inclusive education and leadership. Use specific examples that demonstrate your impact on SEND provision and your ability to foster partnerships with families and external agencies.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for inclusion and your vision for the role. Address how your values align with the school's ethos and how you plan to contribute to their commitment to professional excellence.
Prepare for the Interview: Anticipate questions related to your experience with SEND and inclusive practices. Be ready to discuss your leadership style and how you empower staff through coaching and collaboration. Prepare examples that illustrate your emotional intelligence and resilience.
How to prepare for a job interview at PARKER SMITH INCLUSION
✨Show Your Passion for Inclusion
Make sure to express your genuine passion for inclusion during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've championed inclusive practices in your previous roles, and discuss the impact these had on students' learning and development.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Highlight your leadership experience, particularly in relation to SEND and inclusive education. Be prepared to discuss how you've empowered staff and fostered collaboration within your team to improve outcomes for all students.
✨Know the SEND Code of Practice
Familiarise yourself with the SEND Code of Practice and be ready to discuss its implications for your role. Show that you understand how to implement its guidelines effectively to support diverse learners in the classroom.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interview panel about their vision for inclusion and how they support staff development. This shows your interest in the role and helps you assess if the school aligns with your values and goals.