SEND Officer

Outwood Academy City Fields is an 11–16 academy based in the friendly cathedral city of Wakefield. The Academy was rated Good by Ofsted in March 2022. We joined the Outwood Family of Schools in 2018. Excellent teaching and the highest standards of behaviour are at the heart of everything we do, and we champion innovation in all aspects of learning.

We were delighted that in its latest report, Ofsted noted ‘Outwood Academy City Fields is a school where leaders want the very best for pupils. Their motto of putting ‘students first’ is something that directs and guides leaders’ actions each day. Because leaders set such a strong example of their high ambitions for pupils, other staff mirror these aspirations’.

We know that the ingredients of a great school are an inclusive, broad and balanced curriculum, high-quality teaching and learning, positive behaviours which promote engagement and great pastoral support, which, when combined, can create a great culture where we raise standards and transform lives. At the heart of everything we do is excellent teaching and the highest standards of behaviour. We champion innovation in all aspects of learning while striving to develop a school-wide mindset based around mutual respect and acceptance.

At Outwood Grange Academies Trust, we are a family of schools that strive to raise standards and transform lives. Outwood Academy City Fields is excited to offer this opportunity to work as a SEND Officer. The successful applicant will provide classroom support and out-of-class support to our amazing children, timetabled and planned by our Inclusion department. You will be empowered with the knowledge to support the learning of our well-rounded children. We are looking for an individual who has high aspirations for children, is committed and passionate about learning, and who has the skills and determination to make a significant difference to the lives of our children and shares our goal of ‘Students First’.

Outwood Academy City Fields places students at the centre of everything it does, with a focus on creating a culture of success, a positive climate for learning and increased student attainment, achievement and social and emotional development. As a key figure in our 'family', you will be expected to contribute to the daily support of the school and ensure all our pupils are catered for during their time in our setting. Your team will consist of a SENDCO and 12 Teaching Assistants at varying grades. We are seeking to appoint a SEND Officer with the drive to contribute to an atmosphere of respect, recognition, and mutual support within the academy. Promoting equality and supporting the values and diversity of the school community are essential to our ethos. Our SEND Officer will support our SENDCo to ensure the Academy identifies and addresses the needs of our students, who may be in receipt of an EHCP or on the pathway to explore the needs for additional high-needs funding.

The successful candidate needs to be extremely well organised and will have the ability to prioritise workload, ensure strict deadlines are met and adhere to the SEND Code of Practice. Working with the most vulnerable children in society, it is fundamental that you can deal with challenges that students present with and work with parents and external agencies in a professional, prompt and confidential manner. The ability to work on your own initiative, be a role model to others and effectively manage others is essential. You will have a good understanding of the SEND Code of Practice and Looked-After Children guidance. Experience of working with students with SEND is essential, as is the ability to produce strategies and interventions to assist our more vulnerable students in achieving their full potential.

Outwood Grange Academies Trust provides a high-quality learning and cultural environment that inspires and motivates children.

To view the job description, please click here.

To view the person specification, please click here.

If you are considering this role, the chances are that you already have a passion for supporting children during their time in school, and we would welcome the opportunity for an informal conversation or for you to come and see our warm, inclusive setting. For further information, please contact Ann Jarrett, Business Manager, via a.jarrett@cityfields.outwood.com.

For more information and to apply online, please click the apply button.

Closing date: Midday on 18 August 2024.

Interview date: 22 August 2024.

We reserve the right to close advertisements early. Advertisements will therefore close the day the decision has been taken to close the advertisement early.

Outwood Grange Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are made in accordance with safer recruitment practices and the statutory guidance in Keeping Children Safe in Education. Online checks will be carried out on all shortlisted candidates, and all appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and checks regarding suitability to work with children.