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- Tasks: Lead a team to support pupils with complex needs and ensure high educational standards.
- Company: New River College, an inclusive environment dedicated to student welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, permanent position, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of students facing challenges.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading alternative provision and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to safeguarding and promoting student welfare.
The predicted salary is between 74479 - 82888 £ per year.
About the role: Co-Head of Centre, Grade L10, salary £74,479‑£82,888, Permanent, Required for April 2026. New River College Secondary, inclusive, supporting pupils with complex needs. The postholder will lead the secondary alternative provision, manage a team of teachers and support staff, implement policies, oversee evaluation and curriculum delivery, ensure high standards for pupils with EHC plans, exclusions, or SEMH challenges. Support external professionals (CAMHS, EPS, Family Support) and oversee their work.
Responsibilities:
- Lead the secondary alternative provision and manage a team of teachers and support staff.
- Implement effective policies and procedures to support high standards of educational achievement.
- Oversee self‑evaluation and curriculum delivery.
- Support pupils with EHC plans, exclusions, or at risk of exclusion.
- Work with external professionals (CAMHS, EPS, Family Support) and oversee their work.
- Maintain presence on site and provide visible leadership.
Qualifications:
- Experience leading secondary alternative provision or a similar role.
- Strong understanding of EHC, exclusions, and SEMH challenges.
- Excellent communication and team management skills.
Application Closing date for applications: Wednesday 25 February 2026, 23:59. Interview dates: Thursday 12 and Friday 13 March 2026. To apply, submit an expression of interest to Nigel Smith via email nigel.smith@nrc.islington.sch.uk. For informal discussion or to arrange a visit, contact Nigel Smith, Executive Headteacher, 020 7504 0534, nigel.smith@nrc.islington.sch.uk.
The successful applicant will undertake an enhanced DBS disclosure. Safeguarding checks required. New River College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An online search to ascertain the suitability of the candidate to work with vulnerable young people will be done for all shortlisted candidates.
Co-Head of Centre (Secondary) employer: Islington Council
Contact Detail:
Islington Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Co-Head of Centre (Secondary)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who have experience with alternative provisions. They might have insider info on opportunities or even recommend you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching New River College and its approach to supporting pupils with complex needs. Show us that you understand their mission and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed teams and implemented effective policies in previous roles. We want to hear about your impact!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at New River College.
We think you need these skills to ace Co-Head of Centre (Secondary)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting pupils with complex needs shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience leading secondary alternative provision or similar roles. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your understanding of EHC plans and SEMH challenges.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This helps us see your qualifications quickly!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your expression of interest via our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Islington Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the role and responsibilities of a Co-Head of Centre. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils with EHC plans, exclusions, and SEMH challenges. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're the right fit for the job.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about times when you've implemented effective policies or improved educational outcomes. Be ready to discuss your approach to managing staff and supporting external professionals like CAMHS and EPS.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, such as supporting a pupil at risk of exclusion. Practise your responses to these scenarios, focusing on your problem-solving skills and ability to maintain high standards in challenging circumstances.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions prepared. This could be about the school's vision for the future or how they measure success in their alternative provision. Asking questions shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
