Lead Teacher of Alternative Provision (SEMH/SEND) Rochdale

Lead Teacher of Alternative Provision - Rochdale
Start: September 2026 Full Time Permanent Opportunity
Pay: Competitive & Negotiable Hours: 8.30am - 4.30pm

Tradewind are recruiting!

Are you an experienced SEND teacher with senior leadership experience looking for an opportunity to shape and develop an innovative Alternative Provision setting? Do you have a passion for supporting young people with SEMH and SEND needs who are at risk of exclusion or disengagement from education?

If so, this could be the perfect next step in your career.

Tradewind Recruitment is proud to be working with a developing Alternative Provision in Rochdale that is committed to delivering trauma-informed, relationship-led education for pupils aged 11-16. We are seeking an ambitious and compassionate AP Lead Teacher to help drive provision, support staff development, and create meaningful outcomes for vulnerable young people.

The Role: AP Lead Teacher

This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled SEND practitioner and experienced middle or senior leader to play a key role in a growing provision focused on inclusion, reintegration, and personalised learning pathways.

You will work closely with leadership staff, external agencies, and families to ensure pupils receive both the academic and pastoral support needed to succeed.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and support the delivery of high-quality teaching and learning across the provision
  Support the strategic development of SEND and SEMH provision
  Build positive relationships with pupils through trauma-informed and relational practice
  Oversee behaviour support strategies and personalised interventions
  Support staff coaching, development, and inclusive classroom practice
  Monitor pupil progress, engagement, attendance, and reintegration outcomes
  Work collaboratively with families, local authorities, schools, and external professionals
  Help develop vocational, outdoor learning, and alternative curriculum pathways
  Contribute to safeguarding, pastoral care, and multi-agency planning

This role would suit someone who is resilient, nurturing, and highly motivated to improve outcomes for pupils who may have experienced barriers to mainstream education.

The Provision

This developing Alternative Provision in Rochdale supports pupils aged 11-16 with a range of additional needs, including:

• Social, emotional, and mental health needs (SEMH)
  Autism spectrum conditions (ASC)
  ADHD, anxiety, and emotionally based school avoidance
  Attachment difficulties and developmental trauma
  Pupils at risk of exclusion or disengagement from education

The setting provides small-group teaching, personalised support, and a broad curriculum that combines academic learning with vocational and enrichment opportunities. The provision has a strong focus on inclusion, emotional wellbeing, and successful reintegration or progression into post-16 pathways.

As a growing provision, this is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to have genuine influence within an evolving and ambitious setting.

Requirements:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS/QTLS)
  Strong experience supporting pupils with SEND and SEMH needs
  Previous middle or senior leadership experience within education
  Excellent behaviour management and relationship-building skills
  Understanding of trauma-informed and relational approaches
  Strong communication, organisation, and multi-agency working skills
  Passion for inclusive education and improving pupil outcomes

What We Offer at Tradewind:

• Competitive pay rates with permanent opportunities available
  Access to over 2,500 CPD courses via The National College
  Interview preparation and personalised career support
  Access to SEND and behaviour support resources
  Simple online timesheet and payroll system
  Dedicated consultants with specialist SEND and AP experience

To apply:

Call our Manchester office on or email your CV to