Deputy Principal

Addington Valley Academy is special Free School in Croydon for children and young people with autism and learning difficulties. The school opened in 2020 and provides 150 places for children and young people aged 2-19 who have autism and social communication, cognitive, sensory and social, emotional, and behavioural needs.

We are seeking an exceptional Deputy Principal to join our passionate and dedicated team. This is an exciting opportunity for a leader who is committed to excellence in education and has the skills to inspire staff and students alike.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work collaboratively with the Principal to shape and implement the academy’s vision and strategic objectives

• Champion high expectations for teaching, learning, and student outcomes, ensuring the curriculum meets the diverse needs of our students

• Inspire, coach, and mentor staff, fostering a culture of professional growth and innovation

• Engage with families, local authorities, and external agencies to create a strong support network for our learners

• Maintain the highest standards of safeguarding and wellbeing, ensuring all students feel valued and safe

• Oversee the day-to-day management of the academy, including timetabling, resources, and compliance

Key Requirements:

• QTS and evidence of continuous professional development

• Proven success in a senior leadership role, ideally within a specialist or inclusive setting

• Deep understanding of ASD, SEND, and inclusive education practices

• The ability to build positive relationships with students, staff, and stakeholders

• The ability to remain calm under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances with a solutions-focused mindset

• A drive to ensure every learner achieves their full potential

Rewards & Benefits:

• Comprehensive training and development

• In-service teacher training delivered in partnership with Canterbury Christ Church University

• Opportunities to engage with internal professional networks

• Access to counselling advice and support via Health Assured (our employee assistance programme)

• Commitment to wellbeing supported by our occupational health service and mental-health first aiders

• Scope for career progression across nine college centres, 14 academy schools and Central Teams

• Generous annual leave and flexible working schemes in addition to bank and public holidays and a Christmas closure period

• As part of your contract of employment you will enrolled into a pension scheme, the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) or Teachers Pension Scheme (TPS) both of which have life cover and financial protection for your family

• Enhanced parental leave schemes

• Cycle to work scheme

• Season ticket loans

• Employee referral scheme

• Discounted gym membership subscription including digital fitness

• Home electronics scheme

Addington Valley Academy’s strapline is "Where Special Happens", and we believe in creating extraordinary opportunities for our students. This exciting vacancy has arisen because our current Deputy Principal is stepping up into a Principal role at another school within our Trust. Their progression highlights the strength of our professional development culture, and now, we are searching for a visionary leader who can continue making "special happen" for our learners, staff, and community.

Closing date: 12pm on Friday 17th January 2025

Interviews will take place on: week commencing 27th January 2025

Safeguarding Statement

Orchard Hill College and Academy Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Appointments made will be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service.

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.