Be part of something bold. Build inclusion from the ground up.
Position: Associate Assistant Headteacher - SENCO
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time
Pay Scale: L7-L11
Start Date: 1st June 2026 (subject to employer approval)
Lyde Green Community School is opening in September 2026 - and we’re looking for a passionate SENCO to help shape a school where every learner belongs and thrives.
This is a rare opportunity to lead SEND provision in a brand-new school, with the chance to design systems, build culture, and influence practice from day one. In the first year, you’ll also take on wider leadership responsibilities beyond SEND, including subject leadership and whole-school development.
What you’ll lead:
• Strategic development and implementation of the school’s SEND policy
• Day-to-day coordination of provision for pupils with SEND or disabilities
• Professional guidance and training for staff on inclusive practice
• Relationships with families, external agencies and the Local Authority
• Monitoring and evaluation of SEND provision and impact
• Contribution to whole-school leadership and development
This role is for you if you:
• Want to help shape a school from the ground up
• Are passionate about inclusive education and SEND provision
• Thrive in a fast-paced, start-up environment
• Can build systems, lead teams and work collaboratively with families and professionals
In return, we offer:
• A once-in-a-career opportunity to shape SEND provision in a new school
• A supportive, forward-thinking Trust with a strong commitment to professional growth
• A vibrant community and a values-led approach to education
Please see the Applicant Pack and Job Description for full details.
To apply please complete the application form and use the supporting statement to explain your vision for inclusion at Lyde Green Community School – and your role in delivering it.
Application Deadline: 9am on 9th January 2026
Interviews: 3rd February 2026
Although visiting the school is not currently possible due to ongoing construction, we warmly encourage applicants to arrange a Teams call with Tom Hill (Headteacher). Contact details can be found in the attached information pack.
Our Philosophy as an employer
Our overarching aim and vision is for our schools to deliver an exceptional education for children and young people, ensuring that students have access to the highest standards of teaching, resources and learning opportunities.
We are ambitious for our academies. We live in a demanding educational landscape that brings with it challenges, but also opportunities. We are excited by the opportunities for talented and inspirational educators to make an impact and create a powerful legacy.
We seek applicants who align with our vision and bring the drive and determination to deliver it. We support our schools with leadership, school improvement, legal, financial, administrative, admissions, marketing, premises, safeguarding and HR expertise.
We believe these roles are exciting and rewarding, supported by the expert Olympus team. We’re inspired by our academies’ journey and consider it a privilege to help shape 21st-century education. We welcome your ideas and aspirations and seek staff who will deliver exceptional education to our learners.
Benefits
• Pension Scheme
• Annual pay progression opportunities
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Corporate membership of Bristol Zoo/Wild Place at reduced rates
• Free onsite parking
• Coaching/Counselling services
• Termly and annual staff recognition and awards scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
The Olympus Academy Trust – Lyde Green Community School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants will be required to undergo security and vetting processes appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and an enhanced disclosure through the Disclosure & Barring Service. We have a suite of safeguarding procedures, policies, and guidance for all our staff and volunteers to ensure we actively promote the welfare and safety of children and young people. Moreover, as part of the safer recruitment process, we will conduct online searches during the recruitment process. Details of online accounts will be requested at the application stage.
We apply Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at all stages of recruitment. We shortlist, interview and select without regard to age, disability, gender reassignment, marital status, pregnancy, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation. Applicants with disabilities meeting the minimum criteria will be shortlisted, and reasonable adjustments made. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates.
We offer flexible working patterns where possible to support a work-life balance and welcome applications from individuals wishing to work on a part-time or job-share basis for all roles, including full-time positions. We are happy to discuss flexible working from day one.
Lyde Green Community School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff and volunteers to understand and share this commitment. We have a shared commitment to develop a culture of respect, where discrimination is not tolerated. We welcome all applications, including those from under-represented groups including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.