At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead SEND and EAL initiatives, providing expert advice and support across multiple 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: We value diversity and encourage applications from under-represented groups.
- Why this job: Be a key player in transforming education for vulnerable and diverse learners.
- Qualifications: Must hold NASENCo/NPQSENCo qualification or equivalent, with strategic experience in SEND/EAL.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 € 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 in Sutton Coldfield 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 students and staff.
Contact Detail:
Academy Transformation Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land National SEND & EAL Lead in Sutton Coldfield
✨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 about the role and the culture, plus it shows our genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into SEND and EAL topics. Brush up on recent legislation and best practices. We want to show that we’re not just knowledgeable but also passionate about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice our responses to common interview questions. Think about how our experiences align with the role’s requirements. We want to highlight our commitment to equity and safeguarding in every answer.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can keep us fresh in their minds and show our enthusiasm for the position. Let’s make sure they remember us!
We think you need these skills to ace National SEND & EAL Lead in Sutton Coldfield
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 in your written application. Share your commitment to equity and inclusion, and how you plan to advocate for pupils and families within the Trust.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. This will help us understand your qualifications and motivations without getting lost in complex wording.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply via MyNewTerm on our website. This ensures your application is received directly by us, making it easier for you to track your progress and for us to review your submission efficiently.
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. Being able to discuss specific legal obligations and how they impact practice will show that you're not just knowledgeable, but also genuinely committed to improving outcomes for vulnerable learners.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with Principals and SEND teams, be ready to share examples of how you've fostered collaboration in previous roles. Highlight any Communities of Practice you've led or participated in, and how those experiences have shaped your approach to continuous improvement.
✨Demonstrate Your Professional Curiosity
Prepare to discuss how you stay informed about best practices in SEND and EAL. Mention any research you've engaged with or professional development courses you've taken. This will illustrate your growth-oriented mindset and commitment to evidence-informed practice.
✨Be Ready to Travel and Adapt
Since the role requires regular travel to different academies, be prepared to talk about your flexibility and adaptability. Share experiences where you've successfully supported teams in various settings, especially during inspections or audits, to show that you can thrive in dynamic environments.
