Head of Year

ALDRIDGE EDUCATION; Darwen; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Cycle to Work Scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Flexible Working Opportunities

Free On-Site Parking

Generous Annual Leave

Pension Schemes

Refer a Friend Scheme

Aldridge Benefits Scheme

Job summary

Aldridge Education is seeking a Head of Year for Darwen Aldridge Community Academy in Blackburn with Darwen. This permanent, full‑time role sits in a secondary school and oversees pastoral provision for students in key year groups.

You will mentor pupils, liaise with families, lead behaviour and wellbeing initiatives, and work with teachers to raise attainment. This is a non‑teaching leadership post focused on supporting every student to reach their potential.

Qualifications

• Experience in school leadership or pastoral care is desirable.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Commitment to student wellbeing and achievement.

Responsibilities

• Lead pastoral support across the year group and support wellbeing and safeguarding.
• Build effective relationships with families, carers and external partners.
• Collaborate with teaching staff to drive improved outcomes and school culture.

Job description

Head of Year (Darwen Aldridge Community Academy)

Location: Blackburn with Darwen, UK

Salary: SCP 21 - 25 £29,238 - £32,079

Contract Type: Permanent

Education Phases: Secondary;

Job Roles: Head of Year or Phase;

Working Patterns: Full-Time;

Key Stages: Ks3;

Application Deadline: Sunday, 27th September 2026

Interview Date: W/C 5th October 2026

Expected Working Start Date: As soon as possible

Visa Sponsorship Available: No

Is a Shared Job: No

About the school

Darwen Aldridge Community Academy (DACA) has a capacity of 1200 in the lower school and also has a developing sixth form provision. The sixth form has enjoyed strong progress in both academic and applied courses and has destinations data that shows NEETs significantly lower than the national picture.

All Aldridge schools place enterprise and an entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of their ethos. In addition, DACA has a strong record of promoting cultural capital through its Technology and Creative Arts departments, where competition, visits and visitors are a regular part of student experience and support the development of cultural capital. DACA is very much a community school with a truly comprehensive intake.

Sitting above the national average, 33% of its cohort are designated as being in the pupil premium category and DACA works hard to support all students to achieve strong engagement and strong outcomes. With a strong focus on our four key improvement levers around culture, coaching, curriculum and data-informed instruction, the DACA team are building towards a consistent provision that supports great progress for all students.

About the Role

Join us as Head of Year – Make a huge difference today!

Are you passionate about shaping young lives, supporting families, and driving a culture of excellence?

We are seeking a dedicated, dynamic, and compassionate Head of Year to become a key part of our pastoral and academic team.

As Head of Year, you will be more than a manager – you will be a mentor, advocate, and leader for our students. Your influence will extend across classrooms, corridors, and beyond, helping to shape the experience, wellbeing, and success of every student in your care.

This is a non-teaching role, focused on leading strong pastoral support, building positive relationships with families, and ensuring that every student is supported to achieve their full potential.

Who We’re Looking For

• A strong moral purpose
• Excellent communication skills
• Commitment to student wellbeing and achievement.
• Ability to lead with empathy and inspire resilience will be central to your success.

Key Benefits of working for Aldridge Education

Join the Aldridge Education Family!

Looking for a fulfilling career with great perks? Here’s why working for Aldridge Education is the right choice for you:

• Aldridge Benefits Scheme – Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts tailored just for you!
• Cycle to Work Scheme – Save money and stay fit with our bike-friendly benefits.
• Employee Assistance Programme – Your well‑being matters! Access free, confidential support whenever you need it.
• Flexible Working Opportunities – Balance work and life with flexibility that suits you.
• Free On‑Site Parking – No more hunting for parking, we’ve got your spot covered.
• Generous Annual Leave – Start with a great holiday allowance, and it gets even better after 5 years!
• Pension Schemes – Secure your future with access to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Refer a Friend Scheme – Know someone who would love it here? Earn rewards by bringing them on board!