Complex Needs Leader MPS/UPS + SEN + TLR2

The Role

Oak Wood Secondary is a broad spectrum special school for pupils aged 11-19. Due to the school’s expansion, we are going through an exciting phase of development and are keen to develop our leadership team. In order to provide the very best provision for our pupils, we are establishing a new Complex Needs Department. We wish to appoint an experienced teacher to lead this department. The successful applicant will be passionate about providing the very best opportunities for pupils with SLD, PMLD and complex communication difficulties, many of whom have a diagnosis of Autism. The department will initially consist of 3 classes but this may grow as the complexity of learning need in the school increases over time. This is an ideal opportunity for an established leader or an experienced teacher of who is keen to take their first step into leadership through a new role in a supportive school.

Here’s what some of our staff think about working at Oak Wood Secondary:

“It is a joy to come into work at Oak Wood. The staff teams support each other, the pupils make excellent progress and you feel as if you make a real difference to their lives - not just in their education but with their life skills. Our aim is to provide a great education and give them the tools to get a job or to live the best life they can!”

“Every day is a new and exciting challenge at Oak Wood. Our team strives to make opportunities that are inclusive for all. It’s a friendly workplace where you can have a laugh with colleagues and fun with the pupils.”

“I love working at Oak Wood Secondary School and for me, the joy is in watching the pupils blossom, grow in confidence and achieve things they did not think they could achieve.”

“The staff are welcoming throughout, from our cleaners and caretakers right through to SLT and management. There is always a door open with a friendly ear. I have felt this throughout the school. There are opportunities to further my own development and skills. SLT and management are always available to listen and talk should you need it, no matter how busy they are themselves.”

“It is a lovely place to work and our young people always give you a reason to smile every day.”
“I laugh every single day and never get that 'Sunday night work anxiety'. My class colleagues are like my little family.”

Key Requirements

We are looking for someone who:

• Is an Outstanding classroom practitioner, who is dedicated to the learning and development of pupils with complex learning and communication difficulties.
• Has an optimistic, ‘glass-half-full’, outlook and is able to influence others in a positive way through collaboration.
• Has a forward-thinking approach to providing the very best education and care possible.
• Understands that behaviour is a form of communication and can work proactively to provide a nurturing and safe environment for all.

We can offer you:

• A school in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, within easy commuting distance of Birmingham, Solihull, Coventry and Leicester.
• A dedicated and welcoming staff team who are deeply committed to broadening the horizons of their young people.
• A supportive and enthusiastic leadership team, who listen, see the best in individuals and are committed to staff wellbeing.
• An ongoing programme of professional development, as well as opportunities to partake in personalised development opportunities.
• The opportunity to work as part of a small but strong Multi Academy Trust.
• Commitment to Oak Wood Schools’ core values of Nurture, Harmony and Communication.
• A new and exciting challenge and the opportunity to be the first leader to work in this new role.

Additional Information & How to Apply

If you would like an application pack, please email Julie Walters at jwalters@centralengland.co.uk.

Visits to the school are strongly encouraged and will be completed in line with the school’s Covid-19 Risk Assessment.

If you would like to visit or chat to our Headteacher, Kara Robinson, about the role and the school, please contact Julie Walters on 024 7674 0901 and we will happily to arrange this for you.

All completed applications should be returned by the closing date to Julie Walters on the above email.

Central England Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people and expects staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Posts subject to an Enhanced DBS Disclosure.

Closing Date: Thursday 13th May 2021
Interview Date: Thursday 20th May 2021

Supporting documents
Job Description & Person Specification
Application Form