About the role:
We are currently recruiting for an experienced and inspirational Alternative Provision (AP) Lead to join a specialist educational setting on a full-time, long-term basis starting in September. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate leader who is committed to supporting young people who face barriers to mainstream education. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in leading the day-to-day operation of the Alternative Provision, ensuring that students receive high-quality education, pastoral support, and intervention strategies that enable them to re-engage with learning and achieve positive outcomes.
This role would suit an experienced teacher, middle leader, pastoral leader, behaviour lead, or AP professional with a strong understanding of supporting pupils with SEMH needs, challenging behaviour, and additional learning needs. You will be responsible for developing a safe, structured, and nurturing environment where students are encouraged to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage the day-to-day running of the Alternative Provision, ensuring high standards of education, behaviour, and pastoral care.
- Develop and implement strategies to improve student engagement, attendance, behaviour, and academic achievement.
- Support and mentor staff, promoting best practice in behaviour management, safeguarding, and inclusive education.
- Monitor student progress and oversee the creation of personalised support plans and intervention programmes.
- Build strong relationships with parents, carers, local authorities, and external agencies to ensure effective multi-agency support for students.
- Analyse provision performance data and implement targeted improvement plans where required.
- Ensure all safeguarding, health and safety, and statutory responsibilities are effectively met.
- Lead on reintegration plans where appropriate, supporting students in achieving successful educational outcomes.
- Promote a positive culture that prioritises student wellbeing, resilience, and personal development.
- Contribute to the wider strategic development of the provision and support whole-school improvement initiatives.
Pre-requisites:
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent recognised teaching qualification (preferred).
- Proven experience working within an Alternative Provision, PRU, SEMH setting, or similar specialist environment.
- Strong leadership experience with the ability to motivate and support both students and staff.
- Excellent knowledge of behaviour management, safeguarding procedures, and inclusive educational practices.
- Experience working with vulnerable young people and those at risk of exclusion.
- Strong organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and external professionals.
- Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or willingness to obtain one.