Assistant Headteacher (Pastoral Support and Inclusion) Full-time |Location:EAST FINCHLEYStart date: SEPTEMBER About the Role We are seeking an inspirational and strategic Assistant Headteacher to lead and develop pastoral support and inclusion across the school. This is a key leadership role focused on ensuring that every pupilregardless of need or circumstancecan access learning, feel safe, and thrive. You will shape whole-school systems, lead inclusive practice, and drive initiatives that have a lasting impact on pupils and their families.Main Purpose of the RoleLead and develop the schools pastoral support provision with a strong focus on inclusionEnsure all pupils, including those with additional needs, are fully supported and included in school lifeDesign, implement, and evaluate whole-school strategies that promote wellbeing, engagement, and access to learningWhy This Role MattersPastoral care and inclusion are central to our ethos. This role ensures that vulnerable learners are not only supported but actively enabled to succeed. You will lead systems that directly improve attendance, engagement, emotional wellbeing, and educational outcomes.Key Areas of Responsibility You will provide strategic leadership across the following areas:Parental Engagement Strategy Strengthen home-school partnerships to support pupil wellbeing and progressSupport for Anxiety-Related Absence Develop accessible curriculum pathways and re-engagement strategies, including remote learningPersonalised Timetables Oversee provision and casework for pupils requiring highly individualised supportRegulation Support Plans Lead implementation and staff coaching to ensure consistent practiceSensory Environment Adaptations Improve and coordinate inclusive learning environmentsPSHE and RSE Curriculum Leadership Ensure statutory, inclusive and accessible curriculum deliverySocial Understanding Curriculum Develop provision supporting social communication and emotional literacySCERTS Framework Implementation Lead training and embedding of SCERTS across the schoolTransitions Support Improve support for micro-transitions and major pupil transitions between phases or settingsLeadership ResponsibilitiesContribute to whole-school leadership and improvement planningDeputise for senior leaders when requiredEngage with governance and Trust-level leadership, providing data-informed reportingLead and develop staff through coaching, CPD, and performance managementSupport recruitment, induction, and professional development of staffModel inclusive and therapeutic approaches to teaching and learningSafeguarding and Pastoral SystemsEnsure safeguarding is embedded across all pastoral and inclusion workLead systems for assessment, monitoring, and intervention planningTrack pupil progress through person-centred plans and EHCP targetsWork closely with families and external agencies to support holistic outcomesCollaboration and External WorkingBuild strong partnerships with familiesWork with multidisciplinary and external professionals to support complex needsContribute to multi-agency approaches to pupil wellbeing and inclusionPolicy, Data, and ResourcesDevelop and implement inclusion and pastoral policiesUse data effectively to monitor impact and inform decision-makingManage and oversee budgets linked to pastoral and inclusion provisionPerson Specification QualificationsQualified Teacher Status (QTS)Relevant professional development in SEND, inclusion, pastoral care, or SCERTSLeadership training (desirable)ExperienceExperience teaching in a school settingLeadership of pastoral and/or inclusion initiativesExperience supporting pupils with SEND, including sensory and anxiety-related needsExperience working with families and external agenciesExperience developing curriculum areas such as PSHE/RSE and remote learningExperience coaching and supporting staffSkills and KnowledgeStrong understanding of SCERTS and therapeutic approachesKnowledge of inclusion, differentiation, and sensory-informed practiceAbility to lead curriculum development and inclusive provisionStrong leadership, communication, and organisational skillsAbility to use data to drive improvementUnderstanding of safeguarding requirementsFinancial and budget management capabilityPersonal QualitiesCommitment to inclusion and high expectations for all pupilsEmpathy, patience, and a person-centred approachCollaborative and solution-focused mindsetResilience and professionalism under pressureCommitment to reflective practice and ongoing developmentEssential Role-Specific ExperienceLeading parental engagement strategiesSupporting pupils with anxiety-related absence or school avoidanceManaging complex casework and personalised timetablesDeveloping and implementing regulation support plansLeading sensory/environmental adaptationsLeading PSHE and RSE curriculum developmentImplementing SCERTS or similar frameworksSupporting transitions across settings and phasesCoaching staff in inclusive and therapeutic approachesDesirable ExperienceSenior or middle leadership experience in pastoral or inclusion rolesExperience in specialist SEND or special school settingsTraining in SCERTS, trauma-informed practice, or sensory integrationSafeguarding Statement We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced safeguarding checks. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of background or protected characteristics.JBRP1_UKTJ