HARRIS ACADEMY OCKENDON
Grays, Essex
WORKING WITH US A School That Inspires Excellence We are an 11-18 academy with a thriving Sixth Form, set in a modern, welcoming building designed to ignite curiosity and ambition. In February 2024, Ofsted rated us 'Outstanding' in every category, stating: "Pupils benefit hugely from attending this remarkable school. Staff and leaders' sky-high expectations are immediately evident in pupils' scholarly demeanour. The school and trust have created a centre of true excellence. Pupils experience an extraordinary education at Harris Academy Ockendon." But what truly defines us is our culture. We help our students and staff dream bigger than they ever thought possible and support them in turning those dreams into reality. At HAOC, three values shape everything we do: Work Hard. Be Kind. Take Responsibility. These are not just words; they are the foundation of a school where people feel valued, supported, and inspired to be their best. A Leadership Team That Believes in You Our Principal, Ms Jo Rainey, is a leader who believes in transformation. Originally from Belfast, Jo took over at Ockendon in 2018, turning it from one of the lowest-performing schools in the country to one of the very best. With a strong sense of integrity, deep passion for student success, and unwavering commitment to staff and students, Jo has built a school that people want to be part of. Our Acting Assistant Director, George McMillan, knows that no school is beyond success and no child is beyond achievement. Originally from Glasgow, he has led several schools within the Harris Federation to excellence and Harris Academy Greenwich to world class status twice over, proving that high expectations, great teaching, and an ambitious culture can change lives. Together at HAOC, Jo and George have created more than just a school, they've built a thriving community where students flourish and staff grow, finding purpose, progression, and fulfilment in their careers. This is a true centre of excellence, where every student is empowered to reach their full potential and every educator is supported to lead, innovate, and inspire. Why Join Us? A high-achieving, inspiring 11-18 academy with a Sixth Form full of ambitious young people. A stunning, modern school building that provides an exceptional learning and working environment. An unbeatable location, just outside the M25, attracting staff from across Essex and London. Many of our team travel from Kent, Surrey, Southeast, and Central London because they love the school so much! A supportive, well-balanced working culture, where your professional growth matters, but so does your well-being. The backing of the Harris Federation, one of the most successful school groups in the country, while maintaining a unique and vibrant school identity. The Harris Federation serves some of the most challenged areas in London and Essex, proving that education can change lives. While we share a collective mission, each Harris school has its own culture, its own identity, and its own way of making a difference. Perhaps Harris Academy Ockendon is the school you've been looking for. If you're ready to be part of something extraordinary, we'd love to hear from you. Visits and Pre-Application Meetings We warmly welcome prospective applicants to arrange a tour of the academy and a pre-application meeting with the Principal. These are available upon request between 22nd September 2025 and 1st October 2025. To arrange a visit, please contact Julie Leedham, HR Officer, via email at or by calling . We are looking for a Vice Principal to join us at Harris Academy Ockendon - A School That Transforms Lives! At Harris Academy Ockendon, we are passionate about three things: Creating a remarkable school for the community we serve - a place where students are inspired, challenged, and supported to grow into well-rounded, ambitious, and successful young people, ready to put a ding in the universe. Your path to professional excellence - we believe in nurturing talent, growing together, and empowering futures. Just as we are dedicated to our students, we are equally committed to ensuring our staff thrive and have the support and opportunities they need to succeed. Work-life balance matters - being an exceptional school should not come at the cost of well-being. HAOC is a life-friendly school where teaching and leading with balance is a priority. At HAOC work fits your life. Being great at number 1 and number 2 should not mean we can't do number 3!" MAIN AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY We are happy to negotiate individual responsibilities with you, but these could involve: Overseeing the strategic management of data, assessment and target setting (including reporting achievement data to governors and external bodies as required), working with the Principal to set challenging and aspirational whole academy targets. Leading on teaching, learning and assessment across the academy, providing the necessary Professional Learning opportunities to ensure the highest of standards are maintained in the classroom and in student outcomes. Leading on effective behaviour and inclusion, ensuring that the needs of all students are met within and beyond the classroom. As a member of the Academy Leadership Group, you will need to meet these general expectations: To collaborate to build and realise the shared vision of excellence and high standards To play a major role in determining strategy To contribute actively towards the formulation and implementation of all academy policies and procedures To agree challenging subject targets, and ensure rigorous monitoring, evaluation and review of progress towards these To ensure high quality teaching and learning in line managed faculties To manage delegated budgets effectively To attend academy leadership meetings To engage in the process of appointing new staff To participate in duties lunch/break/before and after school To contribute to assemblies To share in the management of student disciplinary incidents To actively participate in the monitoring, evaluation and review of teaching and learning in line managed faculties WHAT WE ARE LOKKING FOR We would like to hear from you if you have: QTS and a good undergraduate degree (or equivalent) Minimum of three years' experience at senior leadership level, at least once as a deputy/ Vice Principal Experience of delivering high quality INSET to teaching staff Proven success in raising achievement as a subject leader across at least two key stages Evidence of leading, supporting and managing others, both individuals and teams, ensuring high quality performance Successful experience of processes of monitoring, evaluation and review Good level of ICT skills and experience of how new technologies can be used to raise achievement Recent experience of involvement in innovative curriculum development Experience of presenting to a wide audience Ideas of how Language, Literacy and Numeracy can be used across the curriculum to raise standards Experience of embedding innovative strategies for improving teaching and learning in a whole school situation Experience of managing and implementing change successfully at whole school level Experience of using coaching as a model for ensuring on going professional development particularly with subject leaders WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU Senior Leader Development With Harris, you will join a large network of likeminded senior leaders and have opportunities to learn from colleagues who are some of the best senior leaders in the country. Our senior leaders can benefit from tailored professional development programmes via the Harris Institute of Teaching and Leadership which will enable you to develop your pedagogy, leadership skills and drive school improvement. Supported by experienced mentors, you can access national professional qualifications and draw on expert knowledge from dedicated subject consultants who offer invaluable subject and curriculum insight. Flexible Working We are committed to fostering a positive and supportive working environment for our staff, recognising that achieving a balance between professional and personal responsibilities is essential. We understand that each individual's circumstances are unique, which is why we offer flexible working options that can be adapted to meet the needs of both the academy and our employees. Benefits In addition to the opportunities for career development and progression, we also offer a competitive rewards and benefits package which includes a Performance and Loyalty Bonus, Teachers Pension Scheme, a Wellbeing Cash Plan, Employee Assistance Programme, and many other benefits. Learn more about our benefits on our website. Safeguarding Notice The Harris Federation and all our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, references, an online search, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check will be completed. . click apply for full job details
WORKING WITH US A School That Inspires Excellence We are an 11-18 academy with a thriving Sixth Form, set in a modern, welcoming building designed to ignite curiosity and ambition. In February 2024, Ofsted rated us 'Outstanding' in every category, stating: "Pupils benefit hugely from attending this remarkable school. Staff and leaders' sky-high expectations are immediately evident in pupils' scholarly demeanour. The school and trust have created a centre of true excellence. Pupils experience an extraordinary education at Harris Academy Ockendon." But what truly defines us is our culture. We help our students and staff dream bigger than they ever thought possible and support them in turning those dreams into reality. At HAOC, three values shape everything we do: Work Hard. Be Kind. Take Responsibility. These are not just words; they are the foundation of a school where people feel valued, supported, and inspired to be their best. A Leadership Team That Believes in You Our Principal, Ms Jo Rainey, is a leader who believes in transformation. Originally from Belfast, Jo took over at Ockendon in 2018, turning it from one of the lowest-performing schools in the country to one of the very best. With a strong sense of integrity, deep passion for student success, and unwavering commitment to staff and students, Jo has built a school that people want to be part of. Our Acting Assistant Director, George McMillan, knows that no school is beyond success and no child is beyond achievement. Originally from Glasgow, he has led several schools within the Harris Federation to excellence and Harris Academy Greenwich to world class status twice over, proving that high expectations, great teaching, and an ambitious culture can change lives. Together at HAOC, Jo and George have created more than just a school, they've built a thriving community where students flourish and staff grow, finding purpose, progression, and fulfilment in their careers. This is a true centre of excellence, where every student is empowered to reach their full potential and every educator is supported to lead, innovate, and inspire. Why Join Us? A high-achieving, inspiring 11-18 academy with a Sixth Form full of ambitious young people. A stunning, modern school building that provides an exceptional learning and working environment. An unbeatable location, just outside the M25, attracting staff from across Essex and London. Many of our team travel from Kent, Surrey, Southeast, and Central London because they love the school so much! A supportive, well-balanced working culture, where your professional growth matters, but so does your well-being. The backing of the Harris Federation, one of the most successful school groups in the country, while maintaining a unique and vibrant school identity. The Harris Federation serves some of the most challenged areas in London and Essex, proving that education can change lives. While we share a collective mission, each Harris school has its own culture, its own identity, and its own way of making a difference. Perhaps Harris Academy Ockendon is the school you've been looking for. If you're ready to be part of something extraordinary, we'd love to hear from you. Visits and Pre-Application Meetings We warmly welcome prospective applicants to arrange a tour of the academy and a pre-application meeting with the Principal. These are available upon request between 22nd September 2025 and 1st October 2025. To arrange a visit, please contact Julie Leedham, HR Officer, via email at or by calling . We are looking for a Vice Principal to join us at Harris Academy Ockendon - A School That Transforms Lives! At Harris Academy Ockendon, we are passionate about three things: Creating a remarkable school for the community we serve - a place where students are inspired, challenged, and supported to grow into well-rounded, ambitious, and successful young people, ready to put a ding in the universe. Your path to professional excellence - we believe in nurturing talent, growing together, and empowering futures. Just as we are dedicated to our students, we are equally committed to ensuring our staff thrive and have the support and opportunities they need to succeed. Work-life balance matters - being an exceptional school should not come at the cost of well-being. HAOC is a life-friendly school where teaching and leading with balance is a priority. At HAOC work fits your life. Being great at number 1 and number 2 should not mean we can't do number 3!" MAIN AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY We are happy to negotiate individual responsibilities with you, but these could involve: Overseeing the strategic management of data, assessment and target setting (including reporting achievement data to governors and external bodies as required), working with the Principal to set challenging and aspirational whole academy targets. Leading on teaching, learning and assessment across the academy, providing the necessary Professional Learning opportunities to ensure the highest of standards are maintained in the classroom and in student outcomes. Leading on effective behaviour and inclusion, ensuring that the needs of all students are met within and beyond the classroom. As a member of the Academy Leadership Group, you will need to meet these general expectations: To collaborate to build and realise the shared vision of excellence and high standards To play a major role in determining strategy To contribute actively towards the formulation and implementation of all academy policies and procedures To agree challenging subject targets, and ensure rigorous monitoring, evaluation and review of progress towards these To ensure high quality teaching and learning in line managed faculties To manage delegated budgets effectively To attend academy leadership meetings To engage in the process of appointing new staff To participate in duties lunch/break/before and after school To contribute to assemblies To share in the management of student disciplinary incidents To actively participate in the monitoring, evaluation and review of teaching and learning in line managed faculties WHAT WE ARE LOKKING FOR We would like to hear from you if you have: QTS and a good undergraduate degree (or equivalent) Minimum of three years' experience at senior leadership level, at least once as a deputy/ Vice Principal Experience of delivering high quality INSET to teaching staff Proven success in raising achievement as a subject leader across at least two key stages Evidence of leading, supporting and managing others, both individuals and teams, ensuring high quality performance Successful experience of processes of monitoring, evaluation and review Good level of ICT skills and experience of how new technologies can be used to raise achievement Recent experience of involvement in innovative curriculum development Experience of presenting to a wide audience Ideas of how Language, Literacy and Numeracy can be used across the curriculum to raise standards Experience of embedding innovative strategies for improving teaching and learning in a whole school situation Experience of managing and implementing change successfully at whole school level Experience of using coaching as a model for ensuring on going professional development particularly with subject leaders WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU Senior Leader Development With Harris, you will join a large network of likeminded senior leaders and have opportunities to learn from colleagues who are some of the best senior leaders in the country. Our senior leaders can benefit from tailored professional development programmes via the Harris Institute of Teaching and Leadership which will enable you to develop your pedagogy, leadership skills and drive school improvement. Supported by experienced mentors, you can access national professional qualifications and draw on expert knowledge from dedicated subject consultants who offer invaluable subject and curriculum insight. Flexible Working We are committed to fostering a positive and supportive working environment for our staff, recognising that achieving a balance between professional and personal responsibilities is essential. We understand that each individual's circumstances are unique, which is why we offer flexible working options that can be adapted to meet the needs of both the academy and our employees. Benefits In addition to the opportunities for career development and progression, we also offer a competitive rewards and benefits package which includes a Performance and Loyalty Bonus, Teachers Pension Scheme, a Wellbeing Cash Plan, Employee Assistance Programme, and many other benefits. Learn more about our benefits on our website. Safeguarding Notice The Harris Federation and all our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, references, an online search, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check will be completed. . click apply for full job details
Outcomes First Group
Englefield Green, Surrey
At OFG, we work smarter so you can spend more time doing what makes you happy! Job Title: Teaching Assistant Location: Upton Grange School, Slough SL3 7LR Salary: £23,500.00 per annum (not pro rata ) Hours: 38.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday Start: October 2025 Contract: Permanent, Term Time only UK applicants only. This role does not offer sponsorship. As part of our continued growth, we are excited to offer a fantastic opportunity for a Teaching Assistant to join our close-knit and dedicated team at Upton Grange School, part of the Options Autism family. About the Role Start a rewarding career in education and make a real difference to pupils' lives. At Upton Grange School, we provide a supportive and nurturing environment where children and young people with Autism-and often additional needs-are encouraged to achieve more than they ever thought possible. As a Teaching Assistant, you will: Support pupils with their bespoke learning journeys, helping them get the very best from their education. Assist with preparing learning resources and delivering engaging classroom activities. Provide hands-on support both in and outside of the classroom. Contribute to pupils' emotional and physical wellbeing, helping them to build confidence, independence, and positive relationships with the world around them. Every day will bring new challenges and achievements, and you'll be supported by a committed team who share a genuine passion for making a difference. What We're Looking For A caring, patient, and adaptable individual. Passionate about supporting pupils with Autism and additional needs. A strong team player who is eager to learn and share experiences. Previous experience is welcome, but not essential-full training and ongoing support will be provided. About Us Upton Grange School is our Early Years, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 setting for pupils aged 3 - 11 years old setting. Upton Grange deploys a wide range of teaching strategies to engage and develop the progress of learners, who present with a range of learning difficulties and styles. Our pupils are taught in smaller class sizes and work towards an Equals Semi-Formal Curriculum and National Curriculum expectations where appropriate. This opportunity is located in Slough, a 15-minute walk from rail station and within commutable distance of Maidenhead, Twickenham and surrounding areas. For over 16 years Options Autism have provided care and education to pupils and adults with autism, complex needs and learning difficulties. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in setting and delivering new approaches that provide measurable outcomes for those in our care. We are really proud to say that in 2024, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a 'Great Place to Work' for the fifth year running. Why join Options Autism? We place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, so you'll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact on the lives of others. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS. Benefits Your health and wellbeing are important to us, so you'll get an exceptional reward package including: Life Assurance Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions "Your Wellbeing Matters" - access to a wide range of first-class mental health support services and physical health checks And a market-leading benefit offering through our Flexible Benefits Platform, Vista, enables you to choose the package that's right for you, including: A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits 100's of discount options valid in the UK and abroad Cycle to Work Schemes Electric Car Purchase Scheme Critical illness cover Family Growth Support - inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.
At OFG, we work smarter so you can spend more time doing what makes you happy! Job Title: Teaching Assistant Location: Upton Grange School, Slough SL3 7LR Salary: £23,500.00 per annum (not pro rata ) Hours: 38.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday Start: October 2025 Contract: Permanent, Term Time only UK applicants only. This role does not offer sponsorship. As part of our continued growth, we are excited to offer a fantastic opportunity for a Teaching Assistant to join our close-knit and dedicated team at Upton Grange School, part of the Options Autism family. About the Role Start a rewarding career in education and make a real difference to pupils' lives. At Upton Grange School, we provide a supportive and nurturing environment where children and young people with Autism-and often additional needs-are encouraged to achieve more than they ever thought possible. As a Teaching Assistant, you will: Support pupils with their bespoke learning journeys, helping them get the very best from their education. Assist with preparing learning resources and delivering engaging classroom activities. Provide hands-on support both in and outside of the classroom. Contribute to pupils' emotional and physical wellbeing, helping them to build confidence, independence, and positive relationships with the world around them. Every day will bring new challenges and achievements, and you'll be supported by a committed team who share a genuine passion for making a difference. What We're Looking For A caring, patient, and adaptable individual. Passionate about supporting pupils with Autism and additional needs. A strong team player who is eager to learn and share experiences. Previous experience is welcome, but not essential-full training and ongoing support will be provided. About Us Upton Grange School is our Early Years, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 setting for pupils aged 3 - 11 years old setting. Upton Grange deploys a wide range of teaching strategies to engage and develop the progress of learners, who present with a range of learning difficulties and styles. Our pupils are taught in smaller class sizes and work towards an Equals Semi-Formal Curriculum and National Curriculum expectations where appropriate. This opportunity is located in Slough, a 15-minute walk from rail station and within commutable distance of Maidenhead, Twickenham and surrounding areas. For over 16 years Options Autism have provided care and education to pupils and adults with autism, complex needs and learning difficulties. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in setting and delivering new approaches that provide measurable outcomes for those in our care. We are really proud to say that in 2024, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a 'Great Place to Work' for the fifth year running. Why join Options Autism? We place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, so you'll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact on the lives of others. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS. Benefits Your health and wellbeing are important to us, so you'll get an exceptional reward package including: Life Assurance Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions "Your Wellbeing Matters" - access to a wide range of first-class mental health support services and physical health checks And a market-leading benefit offering through our Flexible Benefits Platform, Vista, enables you to choose the package that's right for you, including: A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits 100's of discount options valid in the UK and abroad Cycle to Work Schemes Electric Car Purchase Scheme Critical illness cover Family Growth Support - inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.
