Assistant Headteacher / Strategic SENCo
Contract: 1.00 fte [0.8 fte will be considered]
Start Date: January 2026
Salary: Leadership Pay Range L10-L14
Opportunity
Are you a passionate and visionary leader with a deep commitment to inclusive education? Do you have the strategic insight and drive to shape and lead outstanding SEND provision across a vibrant and diverse secondary school?
Helston Community College is seeking an exceptional Assistant Headteacher/Strategic SENCo to join our Senior Leadership Team from January 2026. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of young people, ensuring every student receives the support they need to thrive.
As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will:
• Lead the strategic development of SEND provision across the College;
• Champion inclusive practice and ensure compliance with the SEND Code of Practice;
• Contribute to whole-school leadership and improvement planning;
• Engage, inspire, and build strong relationships with students and staff alike;
• Be a committed team player, supporting colleagues and contributing to a collaborative culture;
• Be a creative thinker, with a positive and enthusiastic approach to work;
• Demonstrate a commitment to raising standards of achievement and furthering the success of the College;
About You:
We are looking for a leader who:
• Hold the National Award for SEN Coordination [or is willing to complete it];
• Has a proven track record of improving outcomes for students with SEND;
• Demonstrates excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills;
• Is committed to equity, inclusion, and high expectations for all learners;
• Brings energy, resilience, and a collaborative spirit to school leadership.
Why Join Us?
• A supportive and forward-thinking leadership team;
• A strong culture of professional development and innovation;
• A school community that values diversity, inclusion, and student voice;
• Opportunities to shape whole-school strategy and making a lasting difference.
“Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) thrive in the school through bespoke support.” OFSTED 2022
Benefits
As a leading Academy Trust, we are able to offer our staff a range of continued professional development opportunities alongside family friendly policies and access to the Local Government/Teachers Pension Schemes.
Closing date: Midnight on Sunday 6th July 2025
Interviews: To be confirmed
The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a Safeguarding Self-Declaration Form as part of their interview process. Successful candidates will be required to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) application as part of their pre-employment administration. The amendments to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (2013 and 2020) provide that when applying for certain jobs and activities, certain convictions and cautions are considered ‘protected’. This means that they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Other pre-employment checks will include receipt of two satisfactory references, evidence of right to work in the UK, proof of any relevant qualifications and completion of a health assessment questionnaire.
Applicants are expected to familiarise themselves with our Safeguarding and Child Protection policy, which can be found via the following link: https://www.helston.cornwall.sch.uk/web/policies/318090