Specialist SEMH Trust Lead

Summary:

Specialist SEMH Trust Lead role with strategic leadership opportunities in education and care for SEMH pupils.

About the School:

A school committed to putting the needs of students at the heart of all activities, promoting a growth mindset to enable all pupils to make progress and succeed, regardless of learning difficulties.

The Opportunity:

As a Specialist SEMH Trust Lead, you will provide strategic leadership to ensure the highest quality of education and care for pupils with social, emotional, and mental health needs. This role is critical in maintaining strong provision and positive outcomes during a period of transition and growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership aligned with the Trust’s vision for SEMH provision.
• Support the school during the transition period, working closely with Trust leaders, Local Authority, and existing school teams.
• Contribute to ongoing school improvement and the development of effective systems and practices.
• Ensure readiness for potential academisation and support the leadership team during this process.
• Offer specialist expertise and strategic guidance to strengthen SEMH provision across the Trust.
• Work collaboratively with the Trust Leadership Team to advance SEMH practice across the city.
• Support the development of SEMH strategies and ensure they are implemented effectively.
• Provide leadership and guidance in line with the Trust’s mission and values.

Qualifications & Skills:

Required

• Proven experience in senior leadership within a specialist SEMH setting.
• Strong understanding of SEMH provision and the needs of pupils with social, emotional, and mental health challenges.
• Experience in school improvement and strategic planning.
• Ability to work collaboratively with Trust leaders, Local Authority, and school teams.
• Leadership experience within a school or Trust environment.
• Knowledge of academy processes and requirements.

Preferred

• Experience in headship or aspirations to take on a headteacher role.
• Experience working within the Specialist Schools' Trust or similar multi-academy trust.
• Experience with complex learning difficulties and autism.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience in leading SEMH provision across multiple schools.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary on the Leadership Scale (L17-L22).
• Opportunities for professional development and progression to headship.
• Support from the Trust Leadership Team and access to specialist training.