This is a senior leadership role combining strategic leadership as an Assistant Principal, whole-school safeguarding oversight as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), and a small teaching commitment (approximately 15%) delivering English.

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Description

Job overview

About Arco Academy

Arco Academy is a registered independent alternative school with sports as a specialism. In the heart of Camberwell, London, Arco Academy educates students referred by mainstream schools and the Local Authority. We emphasise pastoral care and take a holistic approach towards education. We are committed to high-quality education and promoting our vision to unleash the potential in all our students by providing a creative and tailor-made curriculum.

Every student is given the opportunity to learn, achieve, and succeed to their highest potential. Consequently, we work diligently towards meeting the learning needs of our students. This includes encouraging sports participation, developing essential life skills, and nurturing positive relationships within the school and the wider community. We believe all staff members play a vital role in the lives of our students. Therefore, we take a proactive approach to the development and well-being of all Arco staff. We are committed to investing in all staff through CPD, internal support, and well-being initiatives. We pride ourselves on appreciating, promoting, and celebrating the diversity and individuality of all students, staff, and partners.

Arco Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All positions are subject to an enhanced DBS and other necessary checks. For further information regarding Arco Academy policies, visit https://www.arco.academy/Policies/.

Please ensure you have read the Safeguarding (Child Protection) Policy and Safer Recruitment Policy.

About the Role

This is a senior leadership role combining strategic leadership as an Assistant Principal, whole-school safeguarding oversight as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), and a small teaching commitment (approximately 15%) delivering English.

The post holder will play a key role in shaping the school’s culture, ensuring high standards of behaviour, safeguarding, attendance, and student wellbeing, while contributing to high-quality teaching and learning.

Key Responsibilities

Assistant Principal Responsibilities

· Support the Principal and Vice Principal in the strategic leadership of the school

· Lead on key whole-school priorities such as behaviour, attendance, and pastoral systems

· Drive a positive school culture and uphold high expectations

· Line manage staff and support their development

· Monitor and evaluate school performance data

· Support Ofsted readiness and school improvement planning

· Contribute to policy development and implementation

· Lead staff briefings, meetings, and training where required

Safeguarding Leadership

· Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) in line with statutory guidance (e.g. Keeping Children Safe in Education)

· Lead on all safeguarding and child protection matters across the school

· Manage safeguarding concerns, referrals, and casework, liaising with external agencies (e.g. social care, CAMHS, police)

· Maintain accurate, confidential, and up-to-date safeguarding records

· Ensure safeguarding policies and procedures are implemented, monitored, and reviewed regularly

· Provide guidance, support, and training to staff on safeguarding best practice

· Promote a strong safeguarding culture across the school

· Act as a key point of contact for staff, students, and external agencies regarding safeguarding concerns

· Attend and contribute to multi-agency meetings (e.g. CP, CIN, strategy meetings)

· Support attendance, behaviour, and pastoral interventions where safeguarding concerns are present

· Ensure safer recruitment practices are followed in collaboration with leadership

Teaching & Learning (Approx. 15%)

· Plan and deliver engaging, differentiated English lessons aligned with KS3 and GCSE curricula

· Monitor, assess, and track student progress, adapting teaching to meet individual needs

· Create a positive, inclusive classroom environment that promotes confidence and achievement

· Support students in overcoming barriers to learning

· Apply effective behaviour management strategies

· Student Support & Wellbeing

· Lead on early help and intervention strategies for vulnerable students

· Work closely with the Welfare Officer, SENCO, and leadership team

· Contribute to individual student plans and risk assessments

· Build strong, trusting relationships with students and families

· Maintain accurate records relating to safeguarding, behaviour, and wellbeing

Curriculum & School Contribution

· Contribute to English curriculum planning and development (as required within teaching allocation)

· Support enrichment activities and wider school provision

· Work collaboratively with staff, parents/carers, and external professionals

· Participate in meetings, reviews, and school events

· Promote and uphold the school’s values, ethos, and policies

· Professional Responsibilities

· Engage in ongoing CPD, particularly in safeguarding and leadership

· Maintain up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding legislation and guidance

· Uphold Teachers’ Standards (where applicable)

· Maintain high levels of professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality

· Be flexible and responsive to the needs of the school

Person Specification

Essential

· Degree-level qualification

· Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

· Previous experience as a DSL or Deputy DSL

· Experience in safeguarding/child protection within an educational or similar setting

· Minimum 2 years’ teaching experience (English preferred)

· Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation and procedures (KCSIE)

· Experience working with vulnerable or at-risk young people

· Excellent communication and multi-agency working skills

· Strong organisational and record-keeping abilities

· Ability to manage sensitive situations with professionalism and discretion

· Resilience, adaptability, and a proactive mindset

· Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues

Desirable

· DSL training (or willingness to obtain immediately)

· Experience in an alternative provision or SEMH setting

· Mental health or trauma-informed practice training

Safeguarding Statement

Arco Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK. Please note that visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

The school reserves the right to close this advert early and appoint before the stated closing date should a suitable candidate be identified.