Your career #EMATters! East Midlands Academy Trust is seeking an inspirational and skilled SEN Department Lead and Teacher to lead high-quality provision for learners with additional needs while continuing to deliver outstanding teaching.
This is a key role within the school, combining strategic leadership with classroom practice. You will lead the development of SEND provision, drive high expectations, and ensure excellent outcomes for pupils with a range of additional needs.
We are looking for a leader who can inspire staff, improve practice, and ensure inclusive, high-quality teaching across the department, while working closely with senior leaders, families, and external agencies.
At EMAT, we value inclusion, ambition, and impact. We are proud of our diverse workforce and are committed to ensuring every child receives the support and challenge they need to thrive.
About EMAT
EMAT is an exciting, innovative, and growing organisation where we strive to do things differently, aligned with our core purpose: that every child deserves to be the best they can be.
Our Trust includes schools across Northampton, Milton Keynes, Oxfordshire, and Leicestershire. We are committed to collaboration, high standards, and continuous improvement across all settings.
By joining EMAT, you will benefit from:
- Continuous professional development and leadership training
- Career progression opportunities across our growing Trust
- 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme
- Teachers’ Pension Scheme
- Eye care plan and flu jabs
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Health and wellbeing support (including online GP access)
- Lifestyle savings platform
- Generous family leave
About the Role
The SEN Department Lead and Teacher will lead and deliver high-quality SEND provision while maintaining a strong teaching commitment within the classroom.
You will play a key role in shaping provision, improving outcomes, and ensuring consistently high-quality teaching and learning for pupils with additional needs.
You will play a key role in:
- Leading and developing SEND provision across the department
- Delivering outstanding teaching to pupils with additional needs
- Improving outcomes for pupils with SEND and additional vulnerabilities
- Supporting and developing staff through coaching and modelling
- Monitoring progress and using data to inform intervention and support
- Ensuring high-quality, inclusive teaching and learning across the department
- Working closely with senior leaders on school improvement priorities
- Supporting EHCP processes, reviews, and multi-agency working
- Strengthening parental engagement and communication
- Contributing to whole-school inclusion, safeguarding, and behaviour systems
About You
We are looking for a passionate and skilled teacher and leader with a strong commitment to inclusion and improving outcomes for children with additional needs.
You will have:
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- Strong classroom teaching experience
- Experience working with SEND learners
- Strong understanding of inclusive teaching strategies
- Ability to lead, support, and develop staff
- Good understanding of assessment and progress tracking
- Excellent communication and organisational skills
- A strong commitment to safeguarding and high expectations
Desirable:
- SENCO qualification (NASENCO)
- Experience in a SEND leadership role or responsibility
- Experience working within specialist provision or inclusion settings
Why Join EMAT?
At EMAT, you will be part of a Trust committed to inclusion, ambition, and excellence. As SEN Department Lead and Teacher, you will have the opportunity to shape provision, lead a team, and make a lasting difference to the lives of children and families.
For more information or to arrange an informal conversation, please contact Hannah Fajemiyo, HR Business Partner, at hannah.fajemiyo@central.emat.uk.
A Note for Recruitment Agencies
We have an internal recruitment team and advertise directly to attract candidates. Any speculative CVs will not be accepted.
EMAT reserves the right to close this advert early if a suitable candidate is appointed.
EMAT is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals regardless of background.
EMAT encourages a “Speak Up” culture where concerns can be raised safely and without fear of blame or recrimination.