Job Description
Academy Team Lead
Alternative Education Provision – Peterborough
Full-time, in person
Make a real difference every day
Do you believe that every young person deserves to be seen, heard and supported to thrive? Are you passionate about inclusive education and supporting children and young people with special educational needs, including autism, to build confidence, skills and independence?
Circles Network is looking for a committed, experienced and inspiring Academy Team Lead to lead our Alternative Education Provision in Peterborough.
This is an exciting opportunity to take a leading role within a values-led organisation where relationships, inclusion and meaningful outcomes sit at the heart of everything we do.
About Circles Network
Circles Network is a UK‑wide voluntary organisation renowned for building inclusive communities, grounded in justice, advocacy, empowerment and friendship.
Our mission is to support disabled and disadvantaged people of all ages in transformational and empowering ways to live fulfilling and inclusive lives.
Our work is delivered through four key areas:
* Circles Community
* Circles Advocacy
* Circles Equine
* Circles Academy
We are a passionate and committed team who place people, families and inclusive practice at the centre of all we do.
Our Values of Inclusion
All our work is underpinned by the Values of Inclusion. We believe that:
* everyone has a voice and the right to be heard
* all people have dreams, aspirations, capabilities and strengths
* people should have power and control over their lives, now and in the future
* diversity strengthens communities
* all people should have the opportunity to lead ordinary, valued lives
* belonging, friendships and relationships matter
* all means all
These values guide how we work with young people, families, staff and partners every day.
The role
As an Academy Team Lead, you will be responsible for leading the day-to-day delivery of high-quality, inclusive and person centred learning within Circles Academy in Rugby.
You will support and guide a small team of staff, ensuring that young people who may have experienced barriers to mainstream education feel safe, valued and inspired to re-engage with learning.
You will play a key role in shaping the learning environment, driving positive outcomes, and ensuring that all provision reflects the Values of Inclusion.
There may also be opportunities to support the development of other Circles Network projects and contribute to wider organisational learning.
Key responsibilities
Leadership and coordination
- Lead and support a small team to deliver high-quality alternative education provision
- Provide day-to-day guidance, supervision and modelling of best practice
- Contribute to staff development, induction and ongoing support
- Delivery of learning
- Oversee and contribute to creative, engaging and person centred learning programmes
- Ensure learning opportunities are tailored to individual needs, interests and aspirations
- Promote progression, independence and positive relationships with learning
Young people and relationships
- Build strong, trusting relationships with young people and families
- Support young people who may be anxious, disengaged or have had negative experiences of education
- Promote confidence, self-esteem and social inclusion
Quality and compliance
- Ensure safeguarding, health and safety, and organisational policies are consistently followed
- Maintain accurate records, reports and communication with relevant stakeholders
- Contribute to monitoring outcomes and continuous improvement of the provision
Partnership and development
- Work collaboratively with families, commissioners, schools and partner organisations
- Support the ongoing development and growth of Circles Academy provision
- Contribute to a positive, inclusive and reflective team culture
Person specification
Qualifications and training
Essential:
- Teaching qualification or relevant education qualification at Level 5 or above
- GCSEs in Maths and English at grades nine to four or equivalent
- Training in safeguarding, child protection or first aid
- Confidence using Microsoft Office 365 and basic IT systems
- A full, clean, driving license
Experience
Essential:
- Experience of working with children or young people with special educational needs, including autism
- Experience of delivering or leading education or structured learning activities
- Experience of supporting young people who may be anxious, disengaged or have had negative experiences of education
- A strong commitment to inclusion, equality and person-centred practice
Desirable:
- Experience of supervising or leading staff or volunteers
- Experience within alternative education or specialist provision
Safeguarding
Circles Network is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and potentially vulnerable people. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check and the receipt of three satisfactory references.
Why work with us
- Be part of a supportive, values-driven organisation
- Lead a service that makes a meaningful difference to young people’s lives
- Work within a small, committed and passionate team
- Opportunities to develop leadership skills and shape alternative education provision
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Work Location: In person
Pay: Up to £29,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
