Overview
Are you a compassionate leader with a "child first" mindset? Do you possess the grit to navigate complex safeguarding challenges and the heart to inspire students to overcome barriers to learning? We are seeking an exceptional Pastoral Lead to join our Senior Leadership Team. This is a unique, split role position designed for a practitioner who loves being in the classroom but is driven to make a systemic impact on student welfare and outcomes. This position is a 50/50 split, offering the perfect balance between strategic leadership and frontline teaching. The role is permanent.
Role Profile
- 0.5 FTE Pastoral Leadership - Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and Designated Teacher for Looked After Children (LAC).
- 0.5 FTE Teaching & Cover - Maintain pedagogical craft by providing high quality PPA and SLT cover across the school.
Key Responsibilities
- Safeguarding & Child Protection (DSL)
- Act as the lead professional for all safeguarding and child protection matters.
- Maintain meticulous records and liaise with external agencies (Social Care, Police, Health).
- Provide expert advice and training to staff to maintain a robust culture of vigilance.
- Pastoral Care
- Monitor student well being and lead the pastoral team to support "at risk" learners.
- Serve as the primary advocate for Children in Care, ensuring their Personal Education Plans (PEPs) are rigorous and effective.
- Be the key point of contact for parents needing additional support and act as the focal point for community engagement.
- Attendance & Engagement
- Lead the school's strategy on attendance, working closely with families and external professionals to reduce persistent absence.
- Analyse data trends to identify and remove barriers to school engagement.
- Teaching & Learning
- Deliver engaging lessons across the curriculum as part of our PPA and SLT cover cycle.
- Model exemplary behaviour management and inclusive teaching practices.
Who You Are
- Experienced or aspiring leader with a proven track record in safeguarding (Level 3 DSL/DDSL trained preferred).
- A champion for the vulnerable, believing every child deserves an advocate who won't give up on them.
- Adaptable and resilient - able to pivot from complex multi agency meetings to leading a Year 6 Maths lesson without missing a beat.
- Data informed - using attendance and behaviour data to tell a story and trigger action.
Why Join Us
- A supportive SLT that prioritises staff well being and professional development.
- A school community that views pastoral care as the foundation of academic success.
- The opportunity to shape the strategic direction of our safeguarding and engagement provision.
Additional Information
Interview date: 22nd May 2026.
