Student Support Leader (Pastoral Leader)

Salary: NJC 12-19 £27,000 - £31,214 (Actual Salary) £28,598 - £32,061 (FTE) + well-being cash plan + pension scheme (LGPS) + additional Lift Schools benefits

Hours: 37 per week, 43 weeks per year

Contract: Permanent

Closing date: 13th May

Start date: September 2026

Think you know Lift Unity City? It might surprise you

Lift Unity City is fast becoming the local school of choice as we are driven by an unwavering commitment to; transforming futures, breaking social stereotypes, and ensuring every student secures excellent life opportunities.

About the Role

This is a dynamic, student-facing role where no two days are the same. You'll take ownership of a year group, monitoring behaviour, attendance and punctuality while providing outstanding pastoral care.

You'll build strong relationships with students, families and staff, acting as a trusted adult, problem-solver and role model; ensuring every student is supported to succeed both in and beyond the classroom.

Key Responsibilities

• Champion student wellbeing by providing proactive pastoral support and early intervention
• Monitor behaviour, attendance and punctuality, identifying trends and implementing effective strategies
• Act as a key worker for vulnerable and "at risk" students, including those with SEND or safeguarding needs
• Lead on behaviour support, including de-escalation, behaviour plans and reintegration following suspension
• Work closely with families and external agencies to secure the best outcomes for students
• Use data systems to track, analyse and report on student progress, behaviour and pastoral trends
• Collaborate with teaching staff and senior leaders to maintain a positive, inclusive school culture

What We're Looking For (Essential Criteria)

• GCSE Maths and English (Grade 4/C or above) or equivalent
• Experience motivating young people and promoting high expectations
• Strong data skills, able to analyse trends and use insights to drive action
• Knowledge of safeguarding, child protection and the education sector
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with students, families and professionals
• Calm, confident behaviour management with the ability to de-escalate challenging situations
• Proactive, resilient and solution-focused with the ability to manage competing priorities
• A compassionate, non-judgmental approach and genuine passion for supporting young people

About the school

Lift Unity City is a thriving and diverse school in Middlesbrough, known for its sharp focus on student success. Awarded a 'Good' rating by Ofsted, we are proud of our supportive community and collaborative culture. Our school vision is simple, yet powerful- 'everyone has a determination to succeed, a love of learning, pride in their school and a strength of character.' Alongside excellent leadership and teaching, we will help children to go on to lead successful and happy lives.

Here, you'll be part of a passionate team committed to making a real difference, with the opportunity to contribute to an exciting school improvement journey and see your impact firsthand. With a clear vision and strong community behind us, Lift Unity City is a place where success is the expectation.

At Lift Unity City, we whole-heartedly believe all young people deserve a well-rounded, culturally rich education that fully prepares them to be confident in their ability to prosper in tomorrow's world. To be a part of their life changing journey is a privilege and a pleasure.

Who is Lift Schools?

We're a diverse and inclusive network of schools with one clear mission; to provide an excellent education to every child - in every classroom, every day. And we do this across each of our 58 schools. As with our students, we want our team to be empowered to do their best work, supported by the best leadership they've ever had.

We acknowledge and appreciate the exceptional efforts of everyone here in making this an incredible organisation.

We offer you:

• Comprehensive training: Access a wide range of developmental training to boost your career.
• Generous benefits: From your pension plan to healthcare and financial support, we've got you covered.
• Lifestyle perks: Enjoy discounted gym memberships, travel deals, and even electric vehicle incentives.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive an overwhelming response. All candidates are advised to refer to the job description and person specification before making an application.

Lift Schools are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils, and we expect all our people and volunteers to share this commitment. We adopt a fair and consistent recruitment process which is inline with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. This includes online checks for shortlisted candidates. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check.

Lift Schools embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. Job share, part-time and flexible working opportunities will be considered.

We are a Disability Confident Employer and there is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.