Job ID: S-U-6183 - Pastoral Lead

At OFG we give you time to enjoy those special moments and hobbies outside of work Job Title: Pastoral LeadLocation: Bluebank School, Whittington Moor, Derbyshire, S41 8LQHours: 37.5 per week | Monday to Friday | 8.30am – 4.00pmSalary: Up to £31,500.00 per annum (depending on experience, not pro rata)Contract: Permanent | Term Time OnlyStart: June 2026UK applicants only – no sponsorship availableAbout the RoleAs our Pastoral Lead, you’ll be at the heart of everything we do to support the wellbeing and personal growth of our pupils. You’ll lead the pastoral team, champion safeguarding and inclusion, and drive positive behaviour and emotional resilience across the school.From developing personalised care plans to coordinating support with families and external agencies, you’ll play a vital role in creating an environment where young people can thrive both emotionally and academically.Key responsibilities include:Lead & Safeguard: Take the lead as the school’s Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO), ensuring every child’s safety and wellbeing are at the forefront.Inspire & Guide: Develop and embed effective behaviour support and pastoral care strategies; mentor and empower staff to deliver best practice.Support & Empower Students: Provide direct support to pupils in crisis, promote emotional regulation, and coordinate multi-agency interventions.Drive Standards: Contribute to school policy, monitor pastoral data, and uphold high-quality assurance and compliance standards.Champion School Values: Be an active member of the Senior Leadership Team, promoting a trauma-informed, inclusive culture where every student matters.What We’re Looking ForWe’re seeking someone who is:Experienced in pastoral care, safeguarding, or SEMH supportConfident in leading, coaching, and mentoring staff teamsKnowledgeable about safeguarding legislation and best practiceAnalytical, with the ability to interpret behaviour and attendance dataTrained (or willing to train) in trauma-informed or restorative approachesA strong communicator who builds trust and positive relationshipsCommitted to inclusion, compassion, and continuous improvementHolder of a full UK driving licenceSupporting Statement GuidanceAlong with your application, please include a short supporting statement telling us:A little about yourself and what excites you about this roleWhy you believe you’re the right fit for Bluebank School, referring back to the job descriptionThe key skills and experiences you’ll bringHow you’ll make a difference to our students and community if appointed to the roleAbout UsBluebank School is a brand-new Acorn Education provision set to open in January 2026 in Whittington Moor, Derbyshire. The co-educational school will cater for up to 60 pupils aged 11 – 16, offering specialist support for children and young people with complex needs, including Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) difficulties.Acorn Education offers rewarding careers and meaningful challenges while making a real difference in young people’s lives. As a leading UK provider of specialist education for children and young people with special educational needs, and part of Outcomes First Group, we deliver innovative, evidence-based approaches that support measurable progress and lasting impact.We are really proud to say that in 2025 Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the sixth year running.Why Join Us?We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings