Job Overview
Oak Lodge School is seeking an Assistant Head to lead personal development for learners with learning disabilities, autism and complex needs. The role involves shaping whole‑school strategy as part of a small Senior Leadership Team and designing innovative work‑experience and enrichment programmes that support strong post‑19 outcomes and help students move toward meaningful, fulfilling futures.
Responsibilities
- Design and deliver an accessible work‑experience programme tailored to students’ needs.
- Lead enrichment and club provision to ensure inclusive and engaging opportunities.
- Oversee intervention groups and educational visits.
- Ensure excellent post‑19 outcomes through effective preparation‑for‑adulthood planning.
- Support staff development in SEND best practice (autism, communication approaches, adaptive teaching).
- Embed positive regulation support across the school through proactive strategies, de‑escalation techniques, SCERTS and trauma‑informed practice.
Qualifications and Experience
- Demonstrable experience working with young people with learning disabilities, autism and complex needs.
- Strong skills in person‑centred planning and multidisciplinary collaboration.
- Deep understanding of communication, sensory and regulatory needs.
- Commitment to inclusive practice, high expectations, and an empathetic, resilient and flexible approach.
- Knowledge of supporting student regulation, alternative communication methods and SEND legislation.
- Experience or strong interest in work‑experience, enrichment or preparation‑for‑adulthood programmes.
- Desirable: experience in a secondary special school and specialist qualifications in autism, learning disabilities or therapeutic approaches.
What the school offers its staff
The role offers the opportunity to shape whole‑school strategy as part of a small, dynamic Senior Leadership Team, leading innovative work‑experience and enrichment programmes designed for learners with SEND and making a meaningful impact on post‑19 outcomes and life chances.
Work in a person‑centred environment with high staff‑to‑student ratios, supported by excellent professional development through Barnet Special Education Trust’s network of SEND specialists.
We offer a collaborative and supportive leadership team, extensive professional development opportunities, a strong commitment to staff wellbeing, and the chance to contribute to a rewarding, inclusive school community where every achievement is celebrated.
Safeguarding
Barnet Special Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Offer of a position is subject to receiving satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS Clearance. An online search will be undertaken on all shortlisted candidates. This search does not form part of the shortlisting process and you will have the opportunity to discuss any issues of concern that may arise from this search at the interview.
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