ASSISTANT HEAD OF YEAR

Location: Blackburn with Darwen, UK
Salary: SCP 11 – 15 £24,056 - £25,665 Actual Pro Rata Salary
Education Phase: Secondary
Working Pattern: Full-Time
Contract Type: Permanent
Application Deadline: Wednesday, 16th April 2025
Interview Date: 23rd April 2025

ABOUT US

Darwen Vale High School (DVHS) is an 11-18 academy, with a newly evolving sixth form which sits as part of collaboration with the two other Aldridge Education schools in the town: DACA and DAES. The school’s students are drawn not only from Darwen, but also from neighbouring Blackburn, and around 30% of students qualify for free school meals.
DVHS opened in redesigned and refurbished buildings in September 2012 and has grown from year groups of 150 to 240. It is widely recognised as a school which has seen rapid improvements in recent years. Student achievement has improved significantly and as a result, the school has been oversubscribed for the past several years.
In addition, following a recent Ofsted inspection, Darwen Vale has been given a ‘Good’ rating in all areas; a great achievement, and one which Aldridge and the whole DVHS team are very proud of. The school’s motto - We aim high. We work hard. We care. We are Vale. - embodies the commitment of the community of staff, students and parents to ensuring the school continues to go from strength to strength.

JOIN THE ALDRIDGE EDUCATION FAMILY!

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

• Aldridge Benefits Scheme in Partnership with Sodexo – 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 wellbeing 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.
• Good local transport links – Local train and bus links
• Staff Recognition – Aldridge Appreciates
• 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 onboard!!

When you click apply you will be re-directed to our careers site where you can complete your application.

Join Our Team as an Assistant Head of Year!
Are you a passionate, dedicated Educator looking to make a significant difference in the lives of students? Do you thrive in an environment where you can support and guide learners through their academic and personal challenges? Then we want YOU to be our next Assistant Head of Year!

As an Assistant Head of Year, you will:

• Strategically plan and lead initiatives that directly impact the learning, progress, and personal development of your year group.
• Provide personalized support to students, particularly those facing social, emotional, or behavioural challenges, ensuring they can succeed both academically and socially.
• Work closely with teachers and staff to identify and remove barriers to learning, enabling students to reach their full potential.
• Prioritise students experiencing multiple disadvantages, ensuring they have the support they need to thrive.
• Tackle a variety of issues such as attendance, punctuality, challenging behaviour, and support for gifted learners facing difficulties.

What We’re Looking For:

• A proactive, compassionate leader who is committed to removing barriers for students.
• A strong communicator with the ability to build relationships with students, teachers, and parents.
• Experience in supporting students with social, emotional, or behavioural difficulties.
• A passion for helping all students succeed, particularly those who face the greatest challenges.