At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and enhance teaching and learning for pupils with complex needs.
- Company: St Giles School, a specialist school in Croydon dedicated to inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive staff, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a caring community committed to safeguarding and promoting student welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of exceptional pupils and drive educational excellence.
- Qualifications: Minimum three years of senior leadership experience in teaching and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 62677 - 72009 £ per year.
St Giles School, Croydon is a specialist school for pupils aged 2–19 with complex health needs, physical disabilities and associated learning difficulties. The school delivers education across PMLD and SLD pathways, through pre‑formal, semi‑formal and formal learning approaches, underpinned by high expectations, consistency and first‑class teaching for all pupils.
This is a key Senior Leadership role with strategic responsibility for Teaching & Learning and Inclusion. Working closely with the Headteacher and Deputy Headteacher, the post holder will drive and secure consistently high-quality teaching across the school, ensuring that all pupils benefit from highly effective, inclusive practice and a strong Total Communication approach.
We are seeking an exceptional and experienced leader. Applicants must demonstrate a minimum of three years’ senior leadership experience with a proven track record of securing measurable improvements in teaching and learning and/or inclusion. This post requires a leader who is confident in holding others to account, able to secure consistency across teams, and committed to ensuring that teaching is consistently strong or better across all pathways.
Applications are welcomed from colleagues in both specialist and mainstream settings who can demonstrate expert-level pedagogical knowledge, a deep understanding of inclusive practice, and the ability to translate this into consistently high-quality provision for pupils with complex needs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and embed first‑class teaching across all phases and pathways
- Secure a consistent approach to teaching and learning school‑wide
- Champion and embed a Total Communication approach and provide strategic oversight of all areas of inclusion
- Use evidence and data to evaluate impact and drive improvement
- Support staff development through coaching and professional learning
- Ensure equality of access to learning for all pupils
- Monitor the impact of inclusion strategies on pupil outcomes
Leadership, Behaviour and Safeguarding:
- Provide leadership oversight of student behaviour, promoting calm, safe and purposeful learning environments
- Ensure safeguarding is embedded in daily practice and systems
- Support the day‑to‑day leadership and management of the school
- Work collaboratively with SLT and middle leaders to ensure coherence and shared accountability
We Are Looking for a Leader Who:
- Is passionate about transforming children’s lives
- Is an excellent classroom practitioner with strong SEND experience
- Has proven leadership impact in teaching and learning and/or inclusion
- Understands and champions Total Communication
- Values consistency, clarity and high expectations
- Is reflective, forward‑thinking and committed to professional development
We Offer:
- The opportunity to make a real difference to exceptional pupils
- A welcoming, supportive and skilled staff team
- A committed and knowledgeable governing body
- A bespoke programme of high‑quality CPD
- A caring and inclusive school community
The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The school follows safer recruitment procedures. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure via the Disclosure & Barring Service.
How to Apply:
Please complete an application form and submit a supporting statement addressing the job description and person specification. Email: Margaret Booker on mbooker2.306@lgflmail.org
Closing date: 09:00 am, Thursday 21 May 2025
Interviews: Friday 22 May 2025
Assistant Headteacher – Teaching and Learning/Inclusion in Croydon employer: Stgiles
St Giles School in Croydon is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where dedicated professionals can truly make a difference in the lives of pupils with complex needs. With a strong commitment to professional development and a collaborative leadership team, staff are empowered to drive high-quality teaching and learning while benefiting from a bespoke programme of continuous professional development. The school's recent 'Good' Ofsted rating reflects its ambition for excellence, making it an ideal place for passionate educators seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Headteacher – Teaching and Learning/Inclusion in Croydon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, especially those who know St Giles School. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info or even a recommendation that could give you the edge.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the school's ethos and values. Show us how your vision aligns with their commitment to high-quality teaching and inclusion. Bring examples of your past successes to the table!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend or mentor to do a mock interview with you. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and boost your confidence when it’s time to shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Headteacher – Teaching and Learning/Inclusion in Croydon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Supporting Statement:Make sure your supporting statement directly addresses the job description and person specification. Highlight your experience in teaching and learning, as well as your commitment to inclusion. We want to see how you can make a real difference at St Giles School!
Showcase Your Leadership Experience:Since this is a senior leadership role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your proven track record in leading teams and driving improvements. Share specific examples of how you've secured measurable outcomes in teaching and learning or inclusion. We love a good success story!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and passion for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our community at St Giles School. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Stgiles
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the role of Assistant Headteacher – Teaching and Learning/Inclusion. Familiarise yourself with St Giles School's ethos, their approach to Total Communication, and how they support pupils with complex needs. This will help you demonstrate your passion and alignment with their values during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past leadership roles that highlight your impact on teaching and learning or inclusion. Be ready to discuss measurable improvements you've achieved and how you’ve held others accountable. This will show that you have the experience they’re looking for.
✨Engage with the Interview Panel
Don’t just answer questions; engage in a dialogue. Ask insightful questions about the school's future plans, their approach to professional development, and how they measure success in teaching and learning. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if the school is the right fit for you.
✨Reflect on Your Values
Think about how your personal values align with those of St Giles School. Be prepared to discuss your commitment to inclusivity, high expectations, and professional development. Sharing your reflections will help the panel see you as a candidate who not only fits the role but also shares their vision for the school.
