At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and support a team to enhance educational outcomes for students with SEND.
- Company: Join The Dean Trust, a forward-thinking school dedicated to inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, pension scheme, and access to professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a vibrant community with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Passion for inclusive education and strong leadership abilities required.
The predicted salary is between 35863 - 37677 € per year.
The Dean Trust is seeking to appoint a talented and hard-working Assistant SEND Manager to join our dedicated team at Ashton on Mersey School. This is a senior support role within the secondary school and plays a strategic role in contributing to whole-school planning, improvement, and development. The post holder will work as part of the wider leadership of inclusion, supporting the school’s vision and strategic priorities to ensure high-quality provision and positive outcomes for all students, particularly those with SEND and those who are Looked After (CLA).
The post holder will provide leadership and line management for a team of Higher-Level Teaching Assistants (HLTAs) and Teaching Assistants (TAs), ensuring that support staff are effectively deployed across departments and key stages to meet the diverse needs of students. This includes overseeing day-to-day practice, contributing to performance management, supporting professional development, and promoting consistently high standards of support and intervention.
Working closely with, and reporting directly to, the SENDCo, the post holder will play a key role in the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of SEND and CLA provision across the school. The role requires effective collaboration with curriculum leaders, pastoral teams, external agencies, and parents/carers to support inclusive practice and improve student progress, engagement, and wellbeing.
Ashton on Mersey School is in the central hub of The Dean Trust and serves the community of Sale and beyond. As part of our team you can contribute, collaborate and lead on many established areas that shape our school culture. Our school vision has been shaped by every member of our school community.
School features
- An ambitious co-produced curriculum at Key Stages 3 and 4 leading to a full A-Level and vocational qualification offer in Key Stage 5 at our thriving sixth form.
- A reputation for securing year-on-year examination results that are consistently strong.
- Modern, high-quality facilities with the latest technology solutions accessible to all staff and pupils and with sports facilities that rank alongside some of the best in the country.
- An exceptional character and personal development programme which involves a renowned provision of extra-curricular activity with specialism in Sport and Performing Arts.
- A dedicated group of teaching and support staff that lead excellent pastoral care in an inclusive school which maintains a traditional expectation with regards to standards of behaviour.
- Direct access to the Believe Learning Institute (The Dean Trust’s centre for professional learning, including leadership development), Turing NW Maths Hub and SCITT; all based on site.
- World-class opportunities and partnerships forged with national and international partners, including Manchester United Football Club, with whom we have provided an educational package for youth players for over 25 years, and Sale Sharks, with Ashton on Mersey students participating in the ACE league.
Qualifications and qualities
This exciting opportunity will suit a candidate who demonstrates the following qualities, knowledge and skills:
- Has a strong commitment to supporting SEND pupils and inclusive education
- Demonstrates high expectations and leads by example
- Is adaptable, resilient, and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment
- Is enthusiastic, motivated, and proactive
- Can think creatively and inspire others
- Has excellent organisation and time management skills
- Communicates effectively with staff, pupils, parents, and external agencies
- Works well both independently and as part of a team, with leadership capability
- Shows empathy and sensitivity to individual needs
- Has a strong understanding of child development, SEND, and education practices
- Is confident using data and ICT to support learning and improvement
- Has a secure knowledge of relevant policies, curriculum, and legislation
- Is committed to continuous professional development
How to apply
To apply for this vacancy please visit our recruitment page www.careers.thedeantrust.co.uk
Contact and safeguarding
If you have any questions about the role, please contact Maxine Mills HR Assistant on 0161 973 1179 Option 6 or email MaxineMills@aom.trafford.sch.uk
We are an Equal Opportunities employer committed to ensuring inclusion, diversity and equality of opportunity. We welcome applications from a diverse range of candidates including those from underrepresented groups, and/or with protected characteristics. The Dean Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All post holders are subject to pre-employment safeguarding checks, including an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Check.
Application timeline
Application closing date - 08:00 Monday 1 June 2026 at 8.00 am
Interview date - Week commencing Monday 8 June 2026
Thank you again for your interest in working for The Dean Trust. We look forward to hearing from you.
Assistant SEND Manager employer: Trafford Council
The Dean Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises professional development and employee wellbeing. With access to modern facilities, a strong community focus, and partnerships with renowned organisations, staff can thrive in their roles while making a meaningful impact on students' lives. The benefits package, including a local government pension scheme and enhanced family-friendly policies, further enhances the appeal of working at Ashton on Mersey School.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant SEND Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at The Dean Trust on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. 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 that you’re not just another candidate, but someone who genuinely aligns with our mission and vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially around SEND and inclusive education. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through, so rehearse until you feel confident!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows us that you’re truly interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant SEND Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Assistant SEND Manager role. We want to see how you can contribute to our vision and support our students!
Showcase Your Passion for SEND:Let us know why you're passionate about supporting SEND pupils. Share specific examples of your experience in inclusive education, as this will really help your application stand out!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our recruitment page at www.careers.thedeantrust.co.uk. It’s the best way to ensure we receive your application and can consider you for the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Trafford Council
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) before the interview. Understand the latest policies, practices, and how they impact students. Being able to discuss specific strategies for supporting SEND pupils will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Assistant SEND Manager, you'll be leading a team of Higher-Level Teaching Assistants and Teaching Assistants. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on how you supported their professional development and ensured high standards of support.
✨Be Ready to Collaborate
Collaboration is key in this role. Think of instances where you've worked closely with teachers, parents, or external agencies to improve student outcomes. Be prepared to discuss how you can foster effective partnerships within the school community.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Inclusion
The Dean Trust values inclusive education, so it's important to convey your commitment to supporting all students, especially those with additional needs. Share your experiences and ideas on how to create an inclusive environment that promotes engagement and wellbeing for every pupil.
