At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Head of Year in managing student behaviour and promoting academic progress.
- Company: Join Darwen Vale High School, a community focused on excellence and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and exclusive discounts through our Aldridge Benefits Scheme.
- Other info: We welcome diverse applicants and offer excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while growing your career in education.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths, experience with young people preferred but not essential.
The predicted salary is between 24826 - 26486 € per year.
Location: Blackburn with Darwen, UK
Salary: SPC 11:15 A GBP 24,826 : 26,486.85 (Actual Pro Rata Salary)
Contract Type: Permanent
Education Phases: Secondary
Job Roles: Pastoral Health And Welfare
Working Patterns: Full-Time
Application Deadline: Sunday, 31st May 2026
About The School
Darwen Vale High School is more than its recent Ofsted recognition; it is a community built on shared vision and ambition. Guided by the Aldridge principle of no child left behind, DVHS strives to be a beacon of excellence in Darwen. We champion a safe, inclusive culture of high aspirations and achievement, where everyone is inspired to excel and take pride in all they do. By promoting responsibility, independent thinking and respect for diversity, we prepare learners to thrive as outstanding members of our community.
Our Vale Values
- We Aim High
- We Work Hard
- We Care
About The Role
Join Our Team as an Assistant Head of Year. We are recruiting for 2 Assistant Heads of Year; one is permanent and the other a 12 Month Fixed Term Contract. The aim of the role is to support the Head of Year in managing the year group, promoting high standards of behaviour, attendance, and academic progress. The Assistant Head of Year will contribute to students' personal development and wellbeing, assist in implementing pastoral initiatives, and work collaboratively with staff, parents, and external agencies to ensure a positive and supportive learning environment.
Who We Are Looking For
- Confident, calm, and approachable individuals
- Ability to manage groups of students effectively
- Strong communication and organisational skills
- Previous experience in a school or working with young people is a plus, but not essential
We welcome applications from all sections of the community and particularly encourage applications from underrepresented demographics.
Essential Requirements
- GCSEs in English and Mathematics at level 4 or above
- NVQ Level 3 for Teaching Assistants or equivalent qualification or experience
- Experience of working with young people
- Experience of dealing with challenging students
- Looking to build and grow a career in an educational setting
- Full working knowledge and understanding of the national curriculum and other basic programs/strategic processes and barriers to learning, including behaviour management strategies
- Understanding of the principles of child development and learning processes
Key Benefits Of Working For Aldridge Education
- Aldridge Benefits Scheme: Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts tailored just for you
- Cycle to Work Scheme: Save money and stay fit with our bike-friendly benefits.
- Employee Assistance Programme: Your well-being matters. Access free, confidential support whenever you need it.
- Flexible Working Opportunities: Balance work and life with flexibility that suits you.
- Free On-Spot Parking: No more hunting for parking, we’ve got your spot covered.
- Generous Annual Leave: Start with a great holiday allowance, and it gets even better after 5 years
- Pension Schemes: Secure your future with access to the Teachers Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Refer a Friend Scheme: Know someone who would love it here? Earn rewards by bringing them on board.
Assistant Head of Year in Darwen employer: TipTopJob
Darwen Vale High School is an exceptional employer, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where staff are encouraged to thrive and make a meaningful impact on students' lives. With a strong commitment to professional development, flexible working opportunities, and a focus on well-being through initiatives like the Employee Assistance Programme, we ensure our team feels valued and empowered. Located in Blackburn with Darwen, our school community is dedicated to high aspirations and achievement, making it a rewarding place to work for those passionate about education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Head of Year in Darwen
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Darwen Vale High School on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school's values and recent achievements. Show us how your personal ethos aligns with 'We Aim High, We Work Hard, We Care' during your conversation.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially around behaviour management and student welfare. We want to see your calm and confident side shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our community.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Head of Year in Darwen
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with young people shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives and how you embody our Vale Values.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. We’re looking for confident and approachable individuals, so showcase any past roles or experiences that demonstrate these qualities.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’d be a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly and gives you a chance to explore more about our school and values.
How to prepare for a job interview at TipTopJob
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with Darwen Vale High School's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to high aspirations and inclusivity will help you align your answers with what they stand for.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Even if you don't have direct experience in a school setting, think about any relevant roles you've had working with young people. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've managed groups or dealt with challenging situations, as this will demonstrate your capability.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, the team, and the school's initiatives. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
As an Assistant Head of Year, strong communication is key. During the interview, practice clear and confident communication. Use examples to illustrate how you've effectively communicated with students, parents, or colleagues in the past.
