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- Tasks: Lead and support students' social, emotional, and mental health needs in a dynamic school environment.
- Company: Join West Heath School, where we transform lives through education and foster resilience in students.
- Benefits: Enjoy term-time only work, free lunches, training opportunities, and fun social events.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while working in a supportive and fulfilling team culture.
- Qualifications: Must have QTS or equivalent, with experience in special educational needs and effective behaviour management.
- Other info: This role involves safeguarding responsibilities; an Enhanced DBS check is required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Can you make a difference in the lives of our students? Do you enjoy being challenged and are you solution-focused? Are you interested in joining our SEMH school? If so, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
About West Heath School
West Heath School is a challenging yet rewarding environment where our dedicated staff rebuild lives through education. We emphasize teaching respect, encouraging responsibility, building relationships, and developing resilience among our students. Our committed, dynamic, and resourceful team finds working here highly fulfilling.
Role Overview
We are seeking a Head of Lower School to join our team. The Head of School will develop and manage a comprehensive range of services tailored to the social, emotional, and mental health needs of our students. Responsibilities include:
- Overseeing offsite provisions
- Mentoring students reluctant to learn
- Leading assemblies and tutor sessions
- Collaborating with stakeholders and multi-agency teams
- Managing staff and tutor teams
Candidate Requirements
- Hold, at minimum, QTS or an equivalent relevant degree
- Previous experience teaching children with special educational and emotional needs in a secondary setting
- Knowledge of effective behaviour management strategies and their implementation
Our Commitment
We prioritize the development of life skills and social development alongside academic achievement. Our goal is to help students reintegrate into mainstream learning and prepare for adulthood.
Benefits
- Term-time only working
- Free lunches
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Charity Discount Scheme
- Summer and Christmas social events
- Free onsite parking
- Access to swimming pool
- Excellent internal and external training opportunities
Additional Information
Working at West Heath School involves close contact with vulnerable groups, including children, and is a regulated activity. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Applicants must be willing to undergo safeguarding screening, including an Enhanced DBS check. Management positions require a 128 Check.
Head of Lower School employer: School & College
Contact Detail:
School & College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Lower School
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students in SEMH settings. Understanding the unique challenges they face will help you demonstrate your commitment and ability to make a difference during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of special educational needs. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to connect with others who share your passion, as this can lead to valuable insights and potential referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in managing teams and mentoring students. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've successfully implemented behaviour management strategies in your past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Research West Heath School's ethos and values thoroughly. Tailor your approach to align with their mission of rebuilding lives through education, which will show your genuine interest in becoming part of their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Lower School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the Head of Lower School. Reflect on how your experience aligns with the role's requirements, especially in managing services for students with social, emotional, and mental health needs.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, particularly in teaching children with special educational needs. Emphasise any leadership roles or initiatives you've undertaken that demonstrate your ability to manage staff and mentor students.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for education and your commitment to making a difference in students' lives. Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate your problem-solving skills and ability to work collaboratively with multi-agency teams.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in an educational setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at School & College
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Make sure to express your genuine passion for working with students, especially those with special educational and emotional needs. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your commitment to making a difference in their lives.
✨Demonstrate Behaviour Management Strategies
Be prepared to discuss specific behaviour management strategies you have successfully implemented in the past. Provide examples of how these strategies helped students overcome challenges and foster a positive learning environment.
✨Highlight Collaborative Skills
Since the role involves working with multi-agency teams and stakeholders, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Discuss any previous experiences where teamwork led to successful outcomes for students.
✨Prepare Questions About the School's Vision
Research West Heath School's mission and values, and prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in their approach to education. This demonstrates your alignment with their goals and your eagerness to contribute to their vision.
