At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop SEND provision to improve outcomes for over 30,000 pupils.
- Company: Join Ormiston Academies Trust, a leader in inclusive education.
- Benefits: Flexible working, professional development, and health programmes.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive community dedicated to educational excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with additional needs.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in SEND and experience in inclusive best practices.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 88000 £ per year.
About This Role
Work where it matters most, achieve what matters more. Be part of a team where passion meets purpose, as we work together where the challenge is greatest to change the lives and build the futures of children and young people. We are now looking to recruit an additional and exceptional individual to join our highly successful SEND team and help shape and develop provision and practice in SEND to secure better outcomes for over 30,000 pupils. This is a very exciting time to join our team. Inclusion is at the heart of OAT's ethos and values and, within that, outstanding provision and practice in SEND is pivotal to achieving success for all.
The National Director of AP and Special Academies leads SEND across all key stages and is currently supported by the Senior Lead Practitioner for SEND and regional SEND Lead Practitioners who work together across our five regions. This is a senior strategic role, and as a result, our expectations are high. Working directly with the Senior Lead Practitioner for SEND, you will provide advice, support and guidance to secondary school principals, SENCOs and leadership and inclusion teams across your regions. You will be responsible for academies in the North and West Regions, working with academy staff to co-ordinate, promote and deliver best practice in SEND.
The role will ensure that each academy provides an inclusive education, with a focus upon identification and assessment, high-quality teaching and interventions, funding and provision mapping, assistive technologies, access arrangements, statutory assessment and the SEND legal framework. Other activities will include regional and national work including carrying out academy reviews, leading SENCO network meetings and delivering training and guidance for staff at all stages of their career from ECTs to SLTs.
About You
If you are passionate about making a difference to provision and outcomes for pupils with additional needs, this is the role for you! We are looking for someone who has been a highly successful leader of SEND and/or SENCO, with extensive experience in inclusive best practice, statutory frameworks and national guidance. You will show a strong commitment to embedding current evidence-based approaches and keeping SEND provision aligned with ongoing national developments. The successful candidate will have a proven track record in school improvement and delivering high quality training to inspire, motivate and challenge staff. Using exceptional communication skills, you will be able to demonstrate flexibility, creativity, and innovation to help schools achieve ambitious targets.
Why work for Ormiston?
Our vision is to create a school system where every child thrives, regardless of background. Our people are at the heart of our approach - they are our greatest asset. We exist to provide the best learning opportunities every day, in every school for every child. It is the people and teams in our Trust who make this a reality and ensure we have the greatest impact. If you join us at Ormiston, whatever your role, your work will have purpose and meaning.
Benefits that care for you:
- The opportunity to build on the legacy of those who came before - being part of one of the longest standing Trusts, created with the sole purpose of enabling children and young people to thrive.
- Working for a Trust nationally recognised for its impact on disadvantaged children - a rewarding, stimulating career where staff are challenged to be the best they can be, for the pupils we are proud to serve.
- Being part of a team and community where you belong - being part of a well-resourced and ambitious network of experts and professionals that work at the heart of communities.
- A supportive environment to grow your career - an extensive professional development programme, alongside flexible working arrangements and generous benefits.
We value your hard work and dedication, and we're committed to ensuring you feel supported, both professionally and personally so that you are in the best position to make the most impact for the children and young people in our schools. When you join us at Ormiston, you can be certain that your work will have purpose and meaning. You can also expect robust and holistic support from us to enable you to excel in your role.
School Teachers Pay and Conditions, Teachers' Pension Scheme, Access to health and well-being programmes, including counselling service. Discounts on retail, travel, and leisure through our benefits platform. Free and confidential legal, tax and health 24/7 helpline. Cycle to work scheme. Automatic pay progression. Flexible working arrangements. And much more as part of a leading multi-academy trust.
Lead Practitioner for SEND (North & West Region)EDV/2026/OAT/27272 employer: Ormiston Academies Trust
Ormiston Academies Trust is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values flexibility and teamwork. With opportunities for professional growth and automatic pay progression, employees can thrive in a dynamic environment dedicated to maintaining high standards within the Academy. The role of Site Assistant not only provides meaningful work but also allows for a balanced lifestyle with flexible hours.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Practitioner for SEND (North & West Region)EDV/2026/OAT/27272
✨Join Medical Networks
Get involved in local and national medical associations, like the Royal College of Physicians. These networks can help you connect with mentors and colleagues who might know of openings, plus they're great for staying updated on the latest in medicine and clinical practices.
✨Attend Healthcare Conferences
Make it a habit to attend medical conferences and seminars. These events are fantastic for networking and often feature job boards where hospitals and clinics post their openings. Plus, it’s a good way to get your face recognised in the industry.
✨Leverage Your Medical School's Resources
Don’t forget to use your medical school’s career services! They usually have great connections with hospitals and clinics looking to fill full-time physician positions and can help you with mock interviews or networking events.
✨Apply Directly Through Hospital Websites
When you're ready to apply, make sure to check the careers section of hospital websites directly. Hospitals like Ormiston Academies Trust often post their job openings there first, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other applicants.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Practitioner for SEND (North & West Region)EDV/2026/OAT/27272
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Credentials:When applying for a physician role, make sure to highlight your medical qualifications and any special certifications you have. We want to see your medical degree, residency training, and any additional certifications that set you apart, like specialised training in paediatrics or geriatrics. Don’t leave out those all-important letters after your name!
Tailor Your CV to Medicine:Your CV should reflect your experience and skills as a doctor. Be specific about your clinical rotations, medical practice, and any research work you've done – we love seeing quantifiable impacts, so mention how you've improved patient care or led successful treatment plans.
Craft a Personal Statement with Heart:In your cover letter, let us know why you chose medicine and what drives your passion for patient care. Personal stories about transformative experiences—like a memorable patient encounter or a moment that defined your career path—can really make you shine. Remember, we're looking for someone who genuinely cares about their patients!
Demonstrate Continuous Learning:In the medical field, showcasing your commitment to continuous learning is essential. Mention any recent courses, workshops, or conferences you’ve attended, and highlight your willingness to stay updated on medical advancements. This shows us that you’re not just a physician; you're a lifelong learner, ready to adapt and grow.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ormiston Academies Trust
✨Get Clinical Knowledge Sharp
Brush up on your clinical knowledge, particularly in areas relevant to the role at Ormiston Academies Trust. Expect questions about diagnosis, treatment plans, and patient management. Be ready to discuss case studies or even do some role-playing with hypothetical patient scenarios for a more practical assessment.
✨Know Your Procedures and Protocols
Familiarise yourself with the latest procedures and protocols that are specific to the field of medicine you’re applying to. Whether it’s surgical techniques or patient care protocols, being able to discuss these confidently can really set you apart in the interview at Ormiston Academies Trust.
✨Show You're a Team Player
In the medical field, collaboration is key. Have examples ready that showcase your teamwork and communication skills. Talk about how you've worked with nurses, specialists, or other doctors in the past to provide the best care for your patients. This shows you're ready to integrate into the team at Ormiston Academies Trust.
✨Stay Current with Medical Trends
Make sure you’re clued up on the latest medical trends, research, and innovations. Not only does this prepare you for technical questions, but it also shows your passion for the field. Be ready to discuss how these trends might affect your practice at Ormiston Academies Trust.
