At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead SEND and EAL initiatives, providing expert advice and support across academies.
- Company: Join Academy Transformation Trust, a high-trust organisation dedicated to educational excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy professional autonomy, high-quality development, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Travel across academies and engage with national networks for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be a key player in transforming education for vulnerable and diverse learners.
- Qualifications: Experience in SEND/EAL with relevant qualifications and a commitment to inclusive education.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 65000 £ per year.
Academy Transformation Trust (ATT) is seeking an exceptional specialist to join our central team as National SEND and EAL Lead. This is a unique opportunity to work in expert advisory partnership with Principals, Senior Leaders and SEND teams across all of our academies, helping to continuously refine and strengthen provision for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and those for whom English is an Additional Language. This is a role where expertise, professional curiosity and a genuine commitment to improving outcomes for some of our most vulnerable and linguistically diverse learners sit at the heart of everything you do. You will be a trusted, visible presence across our academies — advising, supporting and challenging colleagues to develop their practice as part of a culture of continuous improvement.
About the role
- Provide expert, evidence-informed advice to Principals, Senior Leaders and SEND teams on all aspects of SEND and EAL provision, as part of the Trust’s continuous improvement agenda.
- Provide clear guidance on SEND law and statutory requirements, supporting academies to fulfil their legal obligations and to advocate confidently on behalf of pupils and families.
- Lead SEND and EAL Communities of Practice, fostering collaborative working and the sharing of best practice across the Trust.
- Build and maintain effective working relationships with external agencies, local authorities and specialist services.
- Represent ATT within national SEND and EAL networks and deliver high-quality external-facing training and professional development.
- Travel regularly to academies across the Trust, providing on-site support including during external inspections, reviews and audits.
Why join ATT?
- ATT is a high-trust, high-accountability organisation where specialist leaders are genuinely valued and empowered.
- You will benefit from a national platform to make a genuine, lasting difference across multiple school communities.
- Genuine professional autonomy within a supportive, expert central team.
- Opportunities to operate within national networks and to deliver external-facing training, building your profile as a sector leader.
- High-quality professional development, peer networks and genuine investment in your continued learning.
- Expert Trust support and a collaborative, values-led working environment.
Who we’re looking for
- You will be an experienced, principled and professionally curious specialist who holds a NASENCo/NPQSENCo qualification or equivalent, and/or recognised EAL expertise.
- Has significant experience of working strategically with schools or academies on SEND and/or EAL.
- Is committed to research-informed practice and brings a professionally inquisitive, growth-oriented mindset.
- Has a secure understanding of SEND law and the confidence to challenge and engage external agencies on behalf of pupils and families.
- Is committed to equity, belonging and safeguarding.
- Brings energy, dedication and a servant leadership approach — genuinely committed to going above and beyond for the pupils, families and colleagues they support.
- Holds a full UK driving licence with access to own vehicle, and is happy to travel regularly across Trust academies.
We particularly welcome applications from candidates from under-represented groups.
How to apply
- Closing date: 9am on Thursday 4 June 2026.
- Interviews: Week commencing 8 June 2026, anticipated Tuesday 9 June.
- Preferred start date: September 2026.
- Apply via: MyNewTerm.
Academy Transformation Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicant will undertake an enhanced DBS criminal record check, and online searches will be carried out in line with KCSIE. We are committed to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion and welcome all applications.
National SEND & EAL Lead employer: Academy Transformation Trust
Academy Transformation Trust (ATT) is an exceptional employer that values its specialist leaders, offering a supportive and collaborative environment where you can make a meaningful impact across multiple school communities. With a strong commitment to professional development and a culture of continuous improvement, ATT empowers its staff to thrive as sector leaders while advocating for vulnerable learners. Join us to be part of a high-trust organisation that prioritises equity, belonging, and the well-being of both pupils and colleagues.
Contact Details:
Academy Transformation Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land National SEND & EAL Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at ATT on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in SEND and EAL. We want to show that we’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the field. Bring some fresh ideas to the table!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend to do a mock interview with you. This will help us articulate our thoughts clearly and confidently when it’s our turn to shine in front of the panel.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. Let’s remind them why we’re the perfect fit for the National SEND & EAL Lead role.
We think you need these skills to ace National SEND & EAL Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of National SEND & EAL Lead. Use specific examples that showcase your expertise in SEND and EAL, and how you've made a difference in previous roles.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for improving outcomes for vulnerable learners shine through. Share stories or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to SEND and EAL, and how you’ve gone above and beyond to support students and families.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. This will help us quickly understand your qualifications and how you can contribute to our Trust.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply via MyNewTerm on our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. Plus, it shows you’re keen to be part of our community!
How to prepare for a job interview at Academy Transformation Trust
✨Know Your SEND and EAL Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest SEND law and EAL strategies before your interview. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and those for whom English is an Additional Language. This will show that you're not just knowledgeable but genuinely passionate about improving outcomes for these learners.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with Principals, Senior Leaders, and SEND teams, be ready to discuss examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Think of specific instances where you’ve fostered teamwork or shared best practices, as this will highlight your ability to build effective working relationships across different teams.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions during your interview. Prepare by thinking through potential challenges you might encounter in the role, such as advocating for a pupil's needs or leading a community of practice. Practising your responses will help you articulate your thought process and demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Continuous Improvement
This role is all about refining and strengthening provision, so be prepared to discuss how you stay updated with research-informed practices. Share any professional development experiences or training you've undertaken that align with the Trust’s continuous improvement agenda, showing that you’re dedicated to your own growth as well as that of your colleagues and students.
