SEND Middle Leader: Emerald Pathway (Upper School)

SEND Middle Leader: Emerald Pathway (Upper School)

Swiss Cottage School, Development & Research Centre
Start Date: September 2026
Salary: MPS/UPS + 1 SEN Point + TLR2A

£3,527 p.a

Location: London Borough of Camden (Inner London)

 

 

The School

Swiss Cottage School is a world-renowned, community-maintained special needs school based in the London Borough of Camden for pupils aged 5–19 with complex needs. We are dedicated to challenging marginalisation through innovation, research, and a deeply inclusive "Culture of Learning." We are an LA maintained school focused on the professional agency of our staff. https://swisscottage.camden.sch.uk/

 

The Role

We are seeking an inspiring, experienced SEND practitioner to lead our Emerald Pathway in the Upper School (KS3/KS4) to start in September 2026. The Emerald Pathway follows a semi-formal curriculum designed for active learners who are developing functional communication, independence, and problem-solving skills.

 

As a Middle Leader, you will not just teach; you will shape the strategic direction of the pathway, mentoring staff and ensuring our "Plan-Do-Assess-Review" cycle delivers exceptional outcomes for every pupil.

 

What can we offer?

·          A school which values you as a professional and commits to your wellbeing.

·          A commitment to a learning culture where teachers are respected as leaders of their classrooms.

·          Daily time with the class team of support staff for planning, reflection, training, and professional discussions (everyday 8:30-9:15 in addition to your PPA time).  

·          Commitment to bespoke Continuing Professional Learning and access to middle and senior leadership training.

·          Designated leadership time in addition to your PPA time

 

Key Responsibilities  

·         Lead, manage, and enhance the Emerald Pathway in the Upper School to ensure a cohesive, creative curriculum.

·         Model high-quality teaching and "coach-in-the-moment" to enhance the teaching practice of staff.

·         Use specialist frameworks (e.g Mapping and Assessing Pupil Progress) to ensure progress is captured and celebrated.

·         Have a positive impact on the educational progress and outcomes of pupils in Emerald Upper School

 

 

Essential Requirements

 

·          Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with significant experience in a SEND environment

·          Proven track record of mentoring teachers and/or leading whole-school curriculum projects.

·          Expertise in alternative communication methods such as Makaton, PECS.

·          Proficiency in using specialist assessment frameworks.

·          Knowledge and understanding of special educational needs through experience in the classroom

·          Passion for creating positive climates of learning

·          A collaborative mindset showing a commitment to working in partnership directly with colleagues, families and specialists (e.g Educational Psychologists, CAMHS, or Occupational Therapists)

·          Reflecting the values of our school: Inclusive, Nurturing, Inspiring

 

 

Closing Date:  Monday 20th April 2026 at 12.00pm

Shortlisting: Tuesday 21s April 2026

Interviews:  Friday 24th April 2026

Tour Dates: Wednesday 15th and Friday 17th April at 10.00am

Start Date: September 2026 or sooner

 

We highly encourage informal visits to the school prior to application.

School tour dates: Please email recruitment@swisscottage.camden.sch.uk to arrange.

 

Please send your completed application form to recruitment@swisscottage.camden.sch.uk

 

Please contact the school HR team on email at recruitment@swisscottage.camden.sch.uk or by phone on 02076818080 if you have any questions.

 

Swiss Cottage School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All positions will be subject to five years of satisfactory references and DBS checks.