Primary Lead

Durham County Council; Ferryhill; On-site; GBP 63,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A local educational authority in Ferryhill seeks a dynamic Primary Lead to join its senior leadership team. The successful candidate will lead a specialized setting supporting pupils at risk of exclusion. This role demands a committed professional who can inspire and drive a strategic vision for vulnerable students, ensuring high-quality education tailored to individual needs. The position offers a chance to make a meaningful impact in the community. Further details are available for potential candidates wishing to visit the provision.

Qualifications

• Proven experience with social, emotional, and behavioural needs.
• Ability to build trust with students and families.
• Creative in developing curriculum and provision.

Responsibilities

• Lead a specialized setting for vulnerable pupils.
• Work with local authorities and mainstream schools.
• Implement early intervention strategies.

Skills

Inclusive teaching approach

Strategic vision development

Experience with vulnerable pupils

Communication skills

Leadership and motivation

Commitment to safeguarding

Job description

Overview

Primary Lead — L9–L13 £63,070 - £69,596

Full Time, Whole Time • Permanent • Start date TBC

An exciting opportunity has arisen at The Woodlands for a dynamic, inclusive, and visionary leader to join our senior leadership team as Primary Lead for The Woodlands. The successful candidate will lead a highly specialised setting that supports pupils who have been permanently excluded or are at risk of permanent exclusion from mainstream education. This role requires a dedicated professional who can ensure pupils receive a personalised, high-quality education that meets their individual needs and prepares them effectively for their next steps in learning. You will play a pivotal role in working with the local authority, mainstream schools, and external partners to deliver early intervention strategies and reduce the incidence of permanent exclusions across the local area.

We are looking for someone who:

• Demonstrates an inclusive approach to teaching and leadership.
• Drives a strategic vision for the most vulnerable pupils, with a strong commitment to proactive, preventative work that supports pupils’ engagement, inclusion, and success in society.
• Has proven experience working with pupils who present with social, emotional, and behavioural needs.
• Is innovative, solution-focused, and creative in developing provision and curriculum.
• Has a deep understanding of the barriers faced by children who are excluded from school.
• Is a strong communicator and able to build trust with pupils, families, staff, and external agencies.
• Can inspire, lead and motivate others within a complex and fast-paced environment.
• Has a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people.

Why join The Woodlands?

The Woodlands is a unique and valued provision that plays a vital role in supporting some of the most vulnerable children in our community. We work closely with pupils to help them re-engage with learning, overcome barriers, and make positive progress both academically and personally. Our work is challenging, but it offers a real opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of young people.

The ability to converse at ease with customers and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for the post.

We warmly welcome and encourage potential candidates to arrange a visit to see our provision in action and learn more about the role.

To arrange a visit please contact Claire Batson on 01740 656040 to book onto one of the following dates:

• 10am Wednesday 1st October
• 1pm Thursday 9th October

For an informal chat, please contact Lesley Candler, Executive Head Teacher on 01740 656040.

Closing date: 12/10/2025

Interview date: 24/10/2025

Please submit completed application forms to [e-mail]

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and, if successful, you will need to apply for an enhanced DBS disclosure.

As a disability confident employer, we are committed to employing disabled people and people with health conditions making reasonable adjustments to support disabled applicants when required.

The Woodlands
Broom Road,
Ferryhill,
Co Durham
DL17 8AN

Tel: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Website: https://www.thewoodlands.durham.sch.uk/

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