At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead inclusive education initiatives and support students' diverse needs.
- Company: St Mary’s Middle School, part of the Wessex Multi Academy Trust.
- Benefits: Professional development, supportive team culture, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team in a beautiful South Coast location.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives within a vibrant school community.
- Qualifications: Experience in inclusive education and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 47185 - 131056 £ per year.
Are you passionate about inclusive education and making a real difference in the lives of young people? St Mary’s Middle School, part of the Wessex Multi Academy Trust, is seeking an inspiring Assistant Headteacher (Inclusion) to join our vibrant and caring school community from September 2026. As a key member of our Senior Leadership Team, you will lead the strategic development of our SEND provision, champion inclusive practice and ensure that every child receives the support they need to thrive. You will work closely with pupils, families, staff, and external agencies and play a vital role in driving whole-school improvement and supporting our pastoral systems.
About the role:
- To work with the Headteacher as part of the Senior Leadership Team in all aspects of leadership and management, leading on inclusion and working alongside the Deputy Head to develop, lead and improve the quality of teaching, curriculum and assessment across the school.
- To take a central role in assisting the Headteacher to develop our school in accordance with its shared values and our school development plans.
- To develop the school’s SEND provision and oversight of the day-to-day operation of that policy with the aim of raising SEND pupil achievement.
- To develop and embed the school’s Pupil Premium Strategy/Policy and act as Pupil Premium Lead for the school.
- To oversee a Graduated Response in the school, including provision for pupils with EHCPs, applying for a needs assessment, annual reviews, transition reviews and ensuring agreed actions are implemented.
- To provide day-to-day operational and leadership support to our Complex Communications Needs Base (The Bridge).
- To work directly with teachers across KS2 and KS3 to team teach, mentor and support planning to ensure high-quality and inclusive teaching is consistent across the school.
What the school offers its staff:
- A supportive Governing Body and Senior Leadership Team.
- A strong, team ethos and a thriving whole school community.
- A highly committed staff team, who are dynamic, motivated and focussed on improving outcomes for children.
- Extensive professional development opportunities, including access to a school-wide CPD budget.
- Staff wellbeing support and a collaborative staff culture.
- The chance to make a real impact in a welcoming and inclusive middle school setting.
- Involvement in community events and the wider life of the school.
- Free onsite parking.
- The opportunity to live in one of the most beautiful areas of the South Coast.
Commitment to safeguarding: Wessex Multi-Academy Trust is committed to Equal Opportunities and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.
Assistant Headteacher (Inclusion) in Dorchester employer: Teaching vacancies
Contact Detail:
Teaching vacancies Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Headteacher (Inclusion) in Dorchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education, especially those who are already in leadership roles. They might have insider info on openings or even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for inclusion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share specific examples of how you've championed inclusive practices in your previous roles. It’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s values and current initiatives. Tailor your responses to show how your vision aligns with theirs, especially regarding SEND provision and whole-school improvement.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Headteacher (Inclusion) in Dorchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Inclusion: Make sure to highlight your enthusiasm for inclusive education in your application. We want to see how you can make a real difference in the lives of young people, so share any relevant experiences or initiatives you've been involved in.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. This shows us that you’re genuinely interested in the role and understand what we’re looking for.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate well-organised applications that are easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and allows you to keep track of your application status easily.
How to prepare for a job interview at Teaching vacancies
✨Know Your Inclusion Strategies
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest inclusive education practices and strategies. Be ready to discuss how you’ve implemented these in previous roles, and think of specific examples that demonstrate your commitment to supporting SEND pupils.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Assistant Headteacher, leadership is key. Prepare to talk about your experience in leading teams, mentoring staff, and driving school improvement. Highlight any initiatives you've led that have positively impacted teaching and learning.
✨Engage with the School's Values
Familiarise yourself with St Mary’s Middle School’s values and development plans. During the interview, connect your personal educational philosophy with their mission, showing how you can contribute to their vision for inclusive education.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school’s approach to inclusion, professional development opportunities, and how they support staff wellbeing. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the school community.