Deputy Headteacher (with SENCO responsibilities) at Holy Cross Primary Catholic Voluntary Academy in Hucknall

Holy Cross Primary Catholic Voluntary Academy is a vibrant, welcoming school community where our mission and motto, 'Loved, Valued, Challenged', underpins every aspect of school life. Rooted in a strong Catholic tradition dating back to 1939, our faith, inspired by the teachings of Jesus, shapes our ethos, curriculum and daily practice. We have high expectations for all and are committed to ensuring that every child is happy, safe and supported; develops a lifelong love of learning; and is well prepared for the challenges of the 21st century. Our caring, family ethos enables children to flourish academically, socially and spiritually.

We are seeking to appoint an inspiring Deputy Headteacher, who will also assume the role of SENDCo, to play a key role in the next phase of our school's development. Working closely with the Headteacher, Governors and CMAT, the successful candidate will provide strategic leadership while remaining highly visible and actively involved in teaching and learning. This is a reserved position, and applicants must be practising Catholics with a strong faith commitment and a clear vision for Catholic education.

The role includes a teaching commitment, alongside leadership responsibilities and SENCO release time, and the successful candidate will model consistently high-quality teaching and learning. You will join a dedicated team of enthusiastic staff, supportive parents and a committed governing body, all working in partnership to ensure the very best outcomes for our children. This is a permanent, full-time position, starting 1 September 2026.

As Deputy Headteacher and SENDCo, you will:

• Provide inspirational leadership as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team
• Lead the strategic development of SEND provision, overseeing both policy and day-to-day practice to raise SEN pupil achievement
• Champion inclusive practice across teaching, learning, behaviour, attendance and pastoral care
• Coordinate and line-manage the Pastoral and Inclusion Team and support staff, including the deployment of resources and targeted interventions
• Work closely with families, external agencies and professionals to deliver personalised support
• Monitor and analyse pupil progress, using data to inform strategic decisions and improvement planning
• Support teaching, learning and curriculum development across the school
• Model outstanding classroom practice and promote consistently high standards of behaviour and safeguarding
• Lead the implementation of the school's Behaviour Policy, providing guidance and training for staff and liaising with key stakeholders where required
• Contribute to whole-school self-evaluation and improvement planning

You will:

• Be a practising Catholic with a strong faith commitment and clear vision for Catholic education
• Be a resilient, experienced leader with a proven track record of raising standards
• Hold the NASENCo qualification (or be willing to work towards it) and demonstrate a strong understanding of the SEND Code of Practice
• Be passionate about ensuring that every child fulfils their unique potential
• Be a confident, positive and visible leader who builds strong relationships with pupils, staff, parents, Governors and external partners
• Build and lead effective teams and work collaboratively
• Be adaptable, reflective and committed to continuous improvement

This is a key role for someone with the drive, vision and commitment to lead across the school, strengthen inclusive provision and help shape our long-term future.

What's in it for me?

• A salary of £61,534 - £67,898 per annum (Leadership Scale points 8 - 12)
• Enthusiastic, motivated children who are keen to learn
• A talented, committed staff team within a supportive working environment
• Nationally agreed terms and conditions for teachers
• Excellent benefits, including: Teachers' Pension Scheme, High-quality CPD tailored to your development, Employee Assistance Programme (emotional, financial and legal support), Staff benefits including discounts and Cycle-to-Work scheme
• A welcoming and values-driven CMAT community

Visits to the school are warmly welcomed. Please contact the school office on 0115 9534577 to arrange a visit.

How to Apply: Prior to applying, applicants are encouraged to contact Paul Tibble, Headteacher, via email (PTibble@holycross.notts.sch.uk) to discuss the role. Alongside your supporting statement, please include one side of A4 summarising the impact of your leadership in current and/or recent roles.

Closing date: Monday 11 May 2026 at 9.00am

Interviews: To be confirmed

Start date: 1 September 2026

Holy Cross Primary Catholic Voluntary Academy is part of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Multi-Academy Trust, serving 36 Catholic primary and secondary schools across Lincolnshire, Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS and pre-employment checks. Our Trust is committed to creating a supportive, inclusive and respectful working environment where every member of staff feels valued and able to fulfil their potential.