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Assistant Headteacher (Inclusion and Senco) - Part-time

Ryarsh Primary School, Ryarsh

  • Ref:KCC886-2189-239L
  • Posted:20/03/2026
  • Pay:Leadership Scale L2 (FTE £53,069, pro rata)
  • Start Date:September 2026
  • App Close Date:27/04/2026 at 12:00
  • Interviews:Friday May 1st 2026

Advert

We are not looking for someone to manage inclusion—we are looking for someone to lead it with purpose, compassion and conviction.
 
We are seeking to appoint an exceptional, values-driven leader to join our Senior Leadership Team as Assistant Headteacher for Inclusion & SENCo. This is a rare opportunity to play a central role in shaping a school where every child is known, valued and supported to flourish.
 
This role comes at an important moment in our journey. We are looking for someone who will build on a deeply embedded culture of care, compassion and high expectations, bringing both professional expertise and genuine humanity to the role.
 
The Role
 
At the heart of this position is the responsibility of SENCo, alongside strategic leadership of inclusion across the school.
You will:
  • Lead and coordinate high-quality provision for pupils with SEND
  • Provide strategic oversight of inclusion, particularly for vulnerable pupils
  • Support staff to deliver inclusive, high-quality teaching
  • Work closely with families and external agencies
  • Contribute fully to the wider leadership and direction of the school
You will also be part of the school’s safeguarding team as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
 
Who We Are Looking For
 
We are seeking someone who:
  • Has a strong understanding of SEND and inclusive practice
  • Is an experienced SENCo or an aspiring senior leader ready for the next step
  • Leads with compassion, integrity and moral purpose
  • Builds strong, trusting relationships with children, families and colleagues
Most importantly, we are looking for someone who understands that inclusion is not a system or a checklist—but a way of thinking, leading and being.
 
Working Pattern
 
This role is offered on a 0.6 FTE permanent contract.
 
To support a successful transition into the role, there may be the opportunity to work additional hours (up to 0.7 FTE) during the first year, depending on the needs of the school and the experience of the candidate. There may also be scope for this to continue longer term where mutually agreed and financially viable.
 
We recognise the importance of flexibility and welcome discussions around working patterns. The role would typically be worked across three days per week; however, we are open to considering alternative arrangements for the right candidate, including flexibility in working days or spreading hours across additional days. Please state your availability and preferences in your application. 
 
Why Join Ryarsh?
  • A warm, values-driven school community
  • A deeply committed and supportive staff team
  • Children who are enthusiastic, curious and eager to learn
  • A leadership team built on trust, collaboration and shared purpose
  • The opportunity to make a genuine and lasting difference
Visits to the School
 
We warmly welcome visits to Ryarsh Primary School.To arrange a visit, please contact our Headteacher, Daniel Childs on daniel.childs@ryarsh.kent.sch.uk 
 
Safeguarding Statement

Ryarsh Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.

Information about the school

At Ryarsh Primary School, we recognise that while outcomes matter, they only tell part of the story.

Schools rightly spend time analysing measurable success—assessment scores, progress, work in books and pupil voice. We are proud of the strong outcomes our children achieve. However, we believe that what truly defines a school cannot always be measured. It is found in the culture we create, the relationships we build and the way every member of our community is supported to thrive.

When you join Ryarsh Primary School, you become part of something more than a workplace—you become part of a family. We do not use that term lightly. Whilst communities can be formed through circumstance or location, we see ourselves as a family because we are bound together by strong, meaningful relationships.

Within our Ryarsh family, everyone—regardless of age or role—is a learner. We are a community where minds are nurtured and challenged, where curiosity is encouraged, and where every individual is given the opportunity to grow and flourish. Our approach is rooted in thoughtful, research-informed practice, enabling us to remain reflective, innovative and continually striving to improve.

We believe in working collaboratively and with purpose. We listen carefully, value every voice and seek to empower all stakeholders to contribute to the life of the school. Every person within our community plays a vital role in shaping what makes Ryarsh such a special place.

There is something quietly powerful about what happens here each day—a sense of belonging, care and shared purpose. It is this that truly defines Ryarsh Primary School.

Job Contact Information

  • Name:Mr Daniel Childs, Headteacher
  • Address:Birling Road, Ryarsh, West Malling, Kent, ME19 5LS
  • Telephone: (01732) 870600
  • Email: headteacher@ryarsh.kent.sch.uk

Fax: (01732) 870600

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We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our students. You are advised that this post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and therefore this post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Application to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Please be aware that schools are also required to undertake online recruitment checks on shortlisted candidates under changes to Keeping Children Safe in Education.