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We are keen to employ a diverse workforce that reflects the people of Scotland. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and particularly from groups currently under-represented, including people with disabilities, those from minority ethnic communities or from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds
Pinewood School is a special school which provides children and young people who have additional learning needs an opportunity to access high quality learning and teaching. The curriculum is designed and adapted to meet the diverse needs of individual learners.
The school is based in the village of Blackburn. The school is classified as through school supporting both primary and secondary aged pupils. There are 19 classes across the school. The school is supported by a team of health professionals who regularly meet with staff, children and parents. This includes: school nursing team, Community Pediatrician, Speech and Language Therapists, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Education Psychologist and Children and Adolescent Mental Health Team.
There is a very positive ethos across the school. Staff, parents and partners work very well together to create a community to provide the best possible care for our children. We are seeking a new school leader who will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to join the school community in creating a dynamic and inclusive environment for our most complex learners in West Lothian. The community links have been further strengthened by the recent refurbishment of the school bringing all classes back on one site.
During the session 2023/24 the school roll comprised of 140 pupils, Head Teacher, Depute Head Teacher, Principal Teachers and 30 members of teaching staff and a team of 78 pupil support workers.
Pinewood Vision:
Effective high-quality learning and teaching is a priority and works alongside a nurturing ethos within the school. Staff are creative, barrier removing and caring in approaches allowing pupils to access the curriculum appropriately. Therefore, all staff set high expectations to encourage young people to be all they can be in order that they achieve their individual potential. This allows all learners to leave school as effective contributors, successful learners, confident individuals, and responsible citizens. The school celebrates every child’s individual success and promotes lifelong learning and development of skills life. Our vision as a school community is to provide relevant, supportive and challenging learning experiences. Fostering a community where learners are given opportunities to develop a positive attitude towards lifelong learning promoting more independent living.
We base our values on creating:
- Positive ethos
- Independence
- Nurturing Environment
- Empowering young people
- Welcoming
- Opportunities for all
- Openness
- Dedicated to success
Qualifications, Skills, Knowledge
Essential
- The post holder will have significant relevant experience as a teacher and promoted post holder who has achieved the very highest standards.
- The post holder must have a sound knowledge of current national curricular developments in teaching and learning both theory and practice.
- The post holder must evidence a clear ability to implement and evaluate such methodology through self-evaluation and quality assurance.
- The post holder must be able to demonstrate leadership ability and must have good management, liaison, communication/interpersonal and presentational skills.
- The post holder must also have a professional commitment to maximising pupil progress attainment and achievement.
Requirements
Desirable:
- The post holder will have experience with managing Complex Additional Support Needs and bring a wealth of experience and leadership skills to create an innovative and supportive work environment.
Essential Qualifications: Appropriate teaching qualifications at degree level GTC Registration Previous promoted experience.
Desirable Qualifications: Appropriate postgraduate qualification Educational research experience SQH strong knowledge and understanding of children with additional support needs.
After 1 August 2020, Education Authorities can only appoint the following categories of people as permanent Head Teachers:-
1) People who have achieved the Standard for Headship.
2) People appointed as permanent Head Teachers of a public school, a grant-aided school or an independent school on or before 1 August 2020.
A person who has not yet achieved the Standard for Headship may be appointed as a head teacher, provided the appointment does not exceed 30 months.
Should you have any queries in relation to the post please contact the ASN Manager - asnmanager@westlothian.gov.uk
West Lothian Council are committed to far reaching changes to the way we deliver our Education Services. These changes include giving you the support and environment that you need to get on with your job and develop your abilities. Our dedication is demonstrated by the whole council achievement of the Investors in People Standard and always aiming a little higher in our service delivery and improvements.
A relevant teaching qualification and registration with the General Teaching Council for Scotland is essential.
This post is considered Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children and/or Protected Adults, under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. Successful candidates will be required to join the Scheme or undergo a PVG Scheme Update check prior to commencing employment and the cost will be met by the candidate.
The fee for a Full PVG Scheme Membership is £59 or Existing Member is £18.
After 1 August 2020, Education Authorities can only appoint the following categories of people as permanent Head Teachers:-
- People who have achieved the Standard for Headship.
- People appointed as permanent Head Teachers of a public school, a grant-aided school or an independent school on or before 1 August 2020.
A person who has not yet achieved the Standard for Headship may be appointed as a head teacher, provided the appointment does not exceed 30 months.
Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme
Disability Confident
About Disability Confident
A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. For more details please go to
Disability Confident.
