Ross Ashcroft

Background

About Ross Ashcroft

As an experienced Headteacher and currently serving as the Executive Headteacher of two special schools—one graded Outstanding and the other Good with Behaviour and Attitudes rated as Outstanding—I am dedicated to driving high standards in education. My extensive career in special education has provided me with the expertise to ensure every pupil has access to a tailored and inclusive learning experience that meets their unique needs. Having dedicated my professional life to special schools in the West Midlands, I understand the importance of fostering an environment that celebrates diversity and supports all pupils to thrive, regardless of their social or cultural background. My focus has always been on ensuring inclusivity while delivering high-quality teaching and learning. This requires strategic leadership, close collaboration with multi-agency teams, and a continuous commitment to improvement. Throughout my career, I have worked with pupils with Severe Learning Disabilities (SLD), Moderate Learning Disabilities (MLD), Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD), and Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC). This breadth of experience has given me an acute awareness of the complexities involved in providing a curriculum that is both aspirational and accessible. I have led the development of robust frameworks to assess progress for pupils with complex needs, ensuring that their achievements are celebrated, and their potential maximized. My leadership has been instrumental in securing strong outcomes for pupils and developing highly effective teams. At both schools under my leadership, I have implemented rigorous self-evaluation and school improvement planning processes. These have been driven by data analysis, stakeholder engagement, and evidence-based practice, enabling us to address areas for development proactively. For example, I led initiatives to enhance Behaviour and Attitudes in one school, resulting in an Outstanding grade in this area. This involved embedding restorative practices, investing in staff training, and building a strong culture of mutual respect and high expectations. I hold a postgraduate qualification in coaching and mentoring, which has greatly enhanced my ability to support staff development and foster a culture of reflective practice. Additionally, I have achieved the National Professional Qualification for Executive Leadership (NPQEL), these qualifications, combined with my extensive experience, further demonstrates my capability to lead at a strategic level and drive organizational improvement.