Job Description

The Role

The Role:


Head of Support for Learning


We are seeking a suitably experienced and qualified teacher of support for learning to lead the ongoing development of the work of the support for learning department across the whole school upon the retirement of the current incumbent. The department, currently comprising two teachers and a pupil support assistant, is based in the heart of the school in a recently refurbished classroom.


We are open to the successful candidate being either a primary or secondary trained teacher. The role may also involve liaison with the nursery team as required. A qualification in Inclusive Education is desirable. An understanding of Assessment Arrangements for learners undertaking National Qualifications will be an advantage. It is essential that applicants are registered, or are eligible for registration, with The General Teaching Council of Scotland.


The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate:

Genuine interest in and knowledge of the changing needs of girls at their different developmental stages Knowledge of current issues and developments in SfL, EAL and pastoral care Highly developed interpersonal skills and a proven track record of building effective relationships with colleagues across departments to the benefit of learners Strong pastoral skills underpinned by a personal commitment to kindness and compassion within the learning community Excellent written and verbal communication skills Highly developed IT and administrative skills Flexibility and adaptability, along with a sense of humour


The Head of Support for Learning will work closely with the Head of Juniors in relation to junior school pupils and the Deputy Head (Pastoral) and Deputy Head (Academic) in relation to senior school pupils.


Shortlisted candidates will be asked to teach a lesson, which will be observed.




Main Responsibilities

The following is an indicative rather than exhaustive list of duties and responsibilities:

To work with the Head and senior leadership team to provide an inclusive and appropriate curriculum and learning environment for all learners To keep abreast of statutory and regulatory responsibilities that pertain to additional support needs and alert the senior leadership team to changes in these fields To support and encourage all members of staff to recognise and fulfil their statutory responsibilities in relation to pupils with specific learning needs The identification of SfL and EAL needs through the use of specific screening tests and assessments To liaise, when necessary, with relevant external agencies and professionals To arrange and/or lead professional learning for staff To maintain and regularly review systems for identifying, assessing and reviewing learning needs and learning plans To identify and implement the most effective teaching approaches for pupils with learning needs To assist in preparing pupils for internal and public examinations and advise departments and staff on assessment arrangements in these examinations To meet with prospective pupils and parents as and when required, and to liaise with feeder schools to ensure continuity of support and learning at key transition points To build positive relationships with pupils and parents and provide regular updates to parents about their child's progress To provide in class support to pupils with additional support needs as and when required To work closely with the Deputy Head (Academic) in the timetabling of Support for Learning To contribute to the development and implementation of the school's Accessibility Strategy To attend parents' evenings, open days and assessment days To contribute to the positive ethos and extra-curricular life of St Margaret's School

About the school/organisation

Founded in 1846, St Margaret's School for Girls is the oldest all-through girls' school in Scotland and the only single sex school in Aberdeen. Today, it provides an exceptional all-round education to around 370 pupils aged 3-18. Recognised by The Sunday Times as the Scottish Independent School of the Year 2020, the school enjoys a fine reputation for academic excellence, is committed to extending access and offers a challenging and enriching education within a warm and inclusive environment.


Further details may be found on our website: www.st-margaret.aberdeen.sch.uk.




Package Description

Applications will be considered for a 0.8 or full-time post.


Remuneration and benefits


At St Margaret's, teachers benefit from a warm and close knit school community and a calm and purposeful learning environment in which children and young people are ambitious and keen to progress. The school is committed to providing excellent professional development opportunities for all staff.


The successful candidate will be remunerated at the appropriate point on the Principal Teachers' scale. Daughters of staff who attend the school will be eligible for a remission on school fees after one year's service. St Margaret's has an Employee Assistance Programme which offers free and confidential advice on both work and personal issues.