Job title and organisation: Federation Assistant Headteacher (Inclusion Lead) - Federation of Crigglestone & The Castle Nursery Schools
Salary: L1–L5
Hours: Full Time
Contract: Permanent - Term Time Only
Location: Crigglestone & The Castle Nursery Schools, Wakefield
Closing Date: Wednesday 10 December
Start Date: 23rd February 2026 or ASAP
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Assistant Headteacher with responsibility for Inclusion and SEND to join our forward-thinking leadership team.
This senior leadership role requires a qualified and practising (or recently practising) SENDCo holding the National Award for SEN Coordination and with substantial experience leading inclusion within an early years or primary setting.
About Us
We are two vibrant, inclusive maintained nursery schools working in strong partnership to provide high-quality early education for children aged 2–4.
Our ethos is rooted in nurture, inclusion, and curiosity. Inspired by The Curiosity Approach, our environments celebrate awe, wonder, and independence—helping every child to explore, question, and thrive.
Our vision: Nurture Children’s Natural Curiosity
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Lead the Federation’s strategic direction for Inclusion, SEND, and medical needs.
- Act as Federation SENDCo, ensuring statutory compliance and exemplary practice.
- Oversee The Garden Room (enhanced SEND provision for communication & interaction), ensuring exceptional, individualised support.
- Contribute to Federation-wide strategic planning and improvement as part of SLT.
Safeguarding & Pastoral Care
- Serve as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), promoting a strong safeguarding culture.
- Oversee behaviour, attendance, and pastoral systems to ensure children feel safe, valued, and ready to learn.
- Monitor attendance and outcomes for vulnerable and disadvantaged children, addressing barriers to engagement.
Staff Leadership & Development
- Lead and support teaching assistants and support staff, including The Garden Room team.
- Ensure staff are confident and well-trained in inclusive, adaptive practice.
- Foster teamwork and professional growth through coaching and reflective supervision.
Curriculum & Teaching
- Champion inclusive, ambitious teaching that meets diverse needs.
- Support staff in delivering a rich, inspiring curriculum aligned with The Curiosity Approach.
- Model outstanding, child-centred practice.
School Improvement & Evaluation
- Lead SEND and inclusion within the school development plan.
- Use data and evidence to evaluate impact and drive improvement.
- Work effectively with external partners to secure the best outcomes for children and families.
- Report regularly to governors on outcomes for SEND and vulnerable groups.
Essential Skills & Qualities
- Qualified teacher with the National Award for SEN Coordination.
- Recent experience as a SENDCo (EYFS experience is desirable).
- Strong knowledge of inclusion, SEND, safeguarding, and early years pedagogy.
- Experience as DSL or senior safeguarding leader.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Proven ability to inspire and develop teams.
- Commitment to reflective, evidence-informed practice.
- Passion for The Curiosity Approach and inclusive education.
- Integrity, optimism, and a belief in every child’s potential.
We Offer
- A warm, collaborative, and forward-thinking Federation community.
- Skilled, supportive staff teams committed to inclusion and lifelong learning.
- Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth.
- Enthusiastic children who love to learn in curiosity-rich environments.
- A unique opportunity to lead and further develop The Garden Room SEND provision.
Further Information
Base: Across both Crigglestone & The Castle Nursery Schools
Closing Date: 10th December 2025
Interviews: Week commencing 15th December 2025
Applications: Please visit here to apply
Email completed application forms to:
kquinn@crigglestonecastle.wakefield.sch.uk
Visits warmly encouraged – come and see our inclusive and curiosity-driven practice in action! Please contact The Castle 01924 664787 or Crigglestone 01924 251151 to arrange a visit.
The Federation of Crigglestone and The Castle Nursery Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references.
The above post is not a Leeds City Council vacancy and has been advertised on behalf of the relevant organisation. To apply please follow their application instructions.
#EXT #LI-DNI
