Pastoral Lead Compass School in Southampton

At Compass School, we are a specialist Alternative Provision dedicated to supporting pupils who have been permanently excluded, are at risk of exclusion, or are unable to access mainstream education. Our pupils often face complex challenges that affect their learning and wellbeing. That’s why we place positive relationships, trauma-informed practice, and relational approaches at the core of everything we do. We are committed to helping every young person overcome barriers, feel valued, and achieve success.

Purpose of the Role

As Pastoral Lead, you will take a key leadership role in promoting positive social and emotional wellbeing and fostering a safe, supportive school climate. You will help ensure that all pupils are able to engage meaningfully with learning across the school day. You will also take a leading role in supporting the implementation of our positive behaviour for learning policy and enhancing the culture of respect, aspiration, and belonging at Compass School.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish supportive, caring, and secure relationships with pupils, promoting respect, self-esteem, and a positive, inclusive school ethos.
• Lead and model a restorative practice approach across the school.
• Actively improve outcomes for pupils with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) difficulties, helping them to build confidence and aspiration.
• Lead pupil voice initiatives, ensuring that pupils have meaningful opportunities to shape their school experience.
• Provide a positive presence across the school site, including corridors and outdoor spaces.
• Collaborate with teaching staff to help pupils engage in learning, responding effectively to their individual academic, emotional, and behavioural needs.
• Support pupils through individual and small group interventions, as well as in-class support.
• Monitor and record pupil progress and behaviour outcomes, contributing to the ongoing development of pupil plans.
• Lead purposeful activities during unstructured times of the day, including the coordination of staff.
• Lead whole zone staff meetings to review pupil engagement and plan targeted actions.
• Engage and communicate with parents and carers, providing support to improve pupil engagement and learning.
• Review and implement effective behaviour management procedures.
• Provide welfare support, including administering First Aid and supporting personal/medical needs (training provided).
• Take lead Fire Marshal responsibilities (training provided).

Who We Are Looking For

We are seeking a passionate, proactive and compassionate leader who:

• Has experience working with pupils with SEMH needs and/or within an Alternative Provision setting.
• Demonstrates a strong understanding of trauma-informed and relational practice.
• Has excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to influence and inspire pupils and staff alike.
• Is confident in leading positive behaviour approaches and restorative practices.
• Has a clear commitment to improving outcomes for young people who face barriers to learning.
• Is a team player who can work collaboratively with staff, pupils, families, and external partners.

Why Join Compass School?

• Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable pupils.
• Be part of a highly supportive and values-driven team.
• Benefit from ongoing professional development.
• Help to shape a truly inclusive, aspirational school culture.
• Work in an environment where relationships and wellbeing are at the heart of success.

If you are passionate about helping young people thrive and want to lead meaningful change in a nurturing school community, we would love to hear from you. Apply now and be part of our journey at Compass School.

Any enquiries, please contact Sally Howells on 02380 215320 or via email.