Middle Leader

We are seeking an inspiring, experienced SEND practitioner to lead our Ruby Pathway to start in January 2027. We are willing to be flexible with start dates for the right candidate. The Ruby pathway is designed for pupils with multisensory impairments / profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD) who are developing early communication, sensory awareness, and foundational interaction skills. This highly specialised, sensory-focused curriculum prioritises responsive environments, intentional communication, and holistic development. Pupils explore the world through tactile, auditory, and visual experiences while learning to anticipate routines and express preferences. As a Middle Leader, you will not just teach; you will shape the strategic direction of the pathway, mentoring staff and ensuring our "Plan-Do-Assess-Review" cycle delivers exceptional outcomes for every pupil. What can we offer?

• A school which values you as a professional and commits to your wellbeing.
• A commitment to a learning culture where teachers are respected as leaders of their classrooms and have the autonomy to shape provision.
• Daily time with the class team of support staff for planning, reflection, training, and professional discussions (everyday 8:30-9:15 in addition to your PPA time). Pupils arrive at 9:15-9:30am.
• Commitment to bespoke Continuing Professional Learning and access to middle and senior leadership training.
• Designated leadership time in addition to your PPA time, Lead, manage, and enhance the Ruby Pathway to ensure a cohesive, creative curriculum.
• Model high-quality teaching and "coach-in-the-moment" to enhance the teaching practice of staff.
• Use specialist frameworks (e.g. MAPP/Evidence for Learning) to ensure progress is captured and celebrated.
• Have an impact on the educational progress and outcomes of pupils in the Ruby Pathway.
  
  Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with significant experience in a SEND environment
• Proven track record of mentoring teachers and/or leading whole-school curriculum projects.
• Expertise in using specialised AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) systems, sensory integration strategies, therapeutic integration and responsive teaching methodologies.
• Proficiency in using specialist assessment frameworks.
• Knowledge and understanding of special educational needs through experience in the classroom
• Passion for creating positive climates of learning
• A collaborative mindset showing a commitment to working in partnership directly with colleagues, families and specialists (e.g. Educational Psychologists, CAMHS, or Occupational Therapists)
• Reflecting the values of our school: Inclusive, Nurturing, Inspiring
  
  Swiss Cottage School is a world-renowned, community-maintained special needs school based in the London Borough of Camden for pupils aged 5-19 with complex needs. We are dedicated to challenging marginalisation through innovation, research, and a deeply inclusive "Culture of Learning." We are a school, not an academy, focused on the professional agency of our staff. https://swisscottage.camden.sch.uk