At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead initiatives to improve educational outcomes for vulnerable children and young people.
- Company: North Yorkshire Virtual School, dedicated to championing educational achievement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a passionate team committed to inclusion and safeguarding.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and young people across North Yorkshire.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and leadership experience in education required.
The predicted salary is between 45900 - 56100 £ per year.
- Grade: Soulbury 4-7 +3 SPA
- Location: Harrogate or Scarborough, North Yorkshire (hybrid working opportunities)
- Make a Difference for Children and Young People Across North Yorkshire
North Yorkshire Virtual School is seeking an ambitious, innovative and child-centred Assistant Head to join our highly regarded team.
This is an exciting opportunity to influence strategic developments and improve outcomes for some of the most vulnerable children and young people in our county.
About us
The Virtual School champions educational achievement, attendance, inclusion, wellbeing and positive transitions for children in care, previously looked after children and other cohorts identified within the Virtual School's expanded remit.
We are looking for a leader who shares our commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive and achieve their potential.
About the Role
As Assistant Head, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across key areas of the Virtual School's work.
Working closely with the Virtual School Head and Assistant Head SENCO you will lead initiatives that drive educational progress, improve attendance and engagement, and strengthen partnership working with schools, social care teams, health services and other stakeholders.
You will play a pivotal role in
- Supporting the delivery of the Virtual School's strategic priorities, statutory duties and service development, including deputising for the Head of Service when required.
- Promoting high aspirations and driving improvements in attendance, attainment, engagement and educational outcomes through the analysis of performance data, effective use of Pupil Premium Plus and targeted interventions.
- Leading and developing strong relationships with schools, academies, alternative provision settings and partner agencies to promote high expectations and inclusive practice.
- Leading on SEND, inclusion and trauma-informed practice, providing advice and guidance on EHCP processes, assessment and provision planning.
- Providing challenge, support and quality assurance to education providers, including auditing Personal Education Plans (PEPs) and monitoring the impact of educational provision.
- Delivering training, consultation, guidance and professional development to Headteachers, Designated Teachers, SENCOs, social workers, carers and other professionals across the local authority and school system.
- Supporting vulnerable learners through key transition points and periods of change, ensuring continuity of education and positive outcomes.
- Overseeing complex casework, supervising staff and coordinating support for children at risk of exclusion, poor attendance, placement instability or disengagement from education.
- Developing bespoke educational packages and innovative provision for children and young people with the most complex needs.
- Ensuring the voice of the child is central to planning, decision-making and advocacy, securing the best possible opportunities and outcomes for every learner.
About You
- We are looking for an experienced and inspirational education leader who:
- Holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
- Has leadership experience within education.
- Has a strong understanding of inclusion, safeguarding and educational outcomes for vulnerable learners.
- Understands the statutory responsibilities relating to children in care and other vulnerable cohorts.
- Can influence and build positive relationships across a wide range of agencies and stakeholders.
- Demonstrates excellent communication, analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Is passionate about championing the voices, experiences and aspirations of children and young people.
- Has a proven track record of improving outcomes through strategic leadership and partnership working.
Experience of working within a Virtual School, local authority service or a role supporting vulnerable learners would be advantageous.
If you are an experienced educational leader with a passion for improving outcomes for vulnerable children and young people, we would love to hear from you.
- Interview date
- 16 th October 2026 (County Hall)
Enhanced Level DBS Disclosure is required for appointment to this post.
NYC are committed to directly recruiting staff and will not accept applications nor services from agency suppliers in respect of our vacancies.
We are committed to meeting the needs of our diverse community and aim to have a workforce reflecting this diversity.
We are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Assistant Head – North Yorkshire Virtual School in Harrogate employer: Applefields School
Whitby School is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inspiring environment for both students and staff. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, mental health support, and continuous professional development, we empower our employees to grow in their careers while making a meaningful impact on the lives of young people. Located in the heart of the Whitby community, our school embodies values of ambition, courage, character, and endeavour, ensuring that every day offers new challenges and rewards.
