Head of Sixth Form - Full-time

The Beacon, Folkestone And Walmer

Ref:KCC886-7043-340L
Posted:01/03/2024
Pay:Leadership Scale L11 - L15
Start Date:Flexible
App Close Date:18/03/2024 at 08:00
Interviews:Wed 27 March 2024

Advert

We have an exciting opportunity for a dynamic and energetic leader looking for a new challenge to undertake the role of Head of Sixth Form. Following an exciting reorganisation of our structure, we have created a new position that will sit within our existing SLT. We provide an exciting and fast-paced environment that is constantly seeking to develop and enhance innovative learning opportunities for our young people.

We are passionate about showcasing the talents of our young people and providing the strongest of pathways into our communities, establishing a precedent of successful transitions into the world of employment, education, training and sustaining this meaningful impact for life. We are up for this challenge and would like to hear from you if you share our ambition and commitment. The specific role will allow greater focus on our pathways, work related learning, independence and significant community engagement in the most creative and meaningful ways. We are looking for the right individual to be part of the Senior Leadership Team and Lead Sixth Form; someone who has proven qualities to establish a world-class curriculum and accreditation that reflects the accelerated progress our young people make.

Our strong ethos and values are present because of the culture amongst our passionate and dedicated staff. A place where we value peer-to-peer coaching, self-reflection and an ethos and culture where everyone is committed to school improvement. We are proud of our pupils’ accelerated progress, development of independence and the success of our onward routes into further education, employment and training.

This job role encompasses the operational functions and strategic development of Sixth Form and will include the opportunity to take on an area of whole school responsibility.

The role would suit a candidate with experience of teaching pupils and/or leading in a Special Educational Needs setting. You will have a comprehensive knowledge of an appropriate curriculum. You will have a commitment to sustain progress from pupils’ individual starting points and will enjoy celebrating these achievements. The pupils within the learning zone will have a range of needs including ASD, sensory and communication challenges.

The Beacon is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.

The school places a high priority on professional and career development.

Please note that this position is subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure. If you would like any further information or to arrange a visit, please email Katie Lonergan, HR Manager (katie.lonergan@thebeacon.kent.sch.uk)

Information about the school

The Beacon is a multi site, all age specialist school (4–19 years) providing high quality education for 480 pupils with complex needs, profound and severe learning difficulties, and physical and sensory impairments. Our main site is located on Park Farm Road in Folkestone, our newest provision in Walmer opened in September 2025. We also operate a 10 place satellite provision at Castle Hill Primary School and work collaboratively with Beacon Plus as an extended partner of the school.

The Beacon is built on a strong culture of cooperation and a commitment to personalised learning. Our child centred, needs led curriculum draws on the EY Foundation Stage, the National Curriculum, and relevant accreditation pathways, with an emphasis on Life Skills, Social Skills, and holistic development.

As a centre of expertise, we also deliver training and support for mainstream schools through our outreach team. This dedicated team provides professional development, advice, and guidance to colleagues across the region. Our conference and meeting facilities regularly host nationally recognised speakers and professional learning events.

We are also home to a Multi Agency Support Hub, one of four centres across the county, bringing together NHS professionals, paediatricians, speech and occupational therapists, nursing teams, children’s social care, and portage services. This integrated approach strengthens the support available to children and families across the Folkestone and Hythe district.

At The Beacon, our shared moral purpose is to improve educational outcomes and life chances for all young people. We believe excellence is achieved through partnership, collaboration, and reflective practice. Our peer to peer coaching model and staff led learning communities help ensure consistently high quality teaching and a culture of continuous improvement. We expect the highest standards from ourselves and all stakeholders, creating an environment where every learner can thrive.

If you share our values and are inspired by our mission, we look forward to hearing from you.

Job Contact Information

Name:Katie Lonergan
Address:Park Farm Road, Folkestone, Salisbury Road, Walmer, Folkestone And Walmer, Kent, CT195DN CT147QJ
Telephone: 01303 847555
Email: HR@thebeacon.kent.sch.uk

Documents

Below are documents that have been added to this vacancy.