Director of Student Wellbeing & Safeguarding

The Methodist Church in Britain; Yate; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Shaftesbury Victoria School is seeking a Head of Student Services to lead pastoral support for pupils with complex needs, including autism and PMLD. The role includes safeguarding leadership, family engagement and oversight of counselling and ELSA provision.

The post covers Upper or Lower School with duties spanning safeguarding, student advocacy and improving outcomes. Start is September 2026, subject to enhanced DBS checks.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in a pastoral, SEND, safeguarding or multi-agency role.
• Understanding of supporting children and young people with physical disabilities and complex needs.
• Knowledge of safeguarding best practices and inclusion.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a dedicated Student Services team.
• Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead for a designated student cohort.
• Ensure high standards of safeguarding, attendance, health, welfare and compliance.
• Build partnerships with families and carers.
• Champion student voice, self-advocacy, inclusion and positive behaviour support.
• Work with parents, local authorities and external agencies.
• Drive inclusive practice and equitable access to learning.
• Contribute strategically to school improvement and student outcomes.
• Deliver safeguarding training and promote best practice across the school.
• Use data and insight to inform decisions and improve support services.
• Oversee counselling and well-being services and Wider wellbeing provisions.
• Support the school's culture of inclusion and belonging.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Proactive approach

Collaborative working

Emotional intelligence

Job description

Shaftesbury Victoria School is seeking a Head of Student Services to lead pastoral support for pupils with complex needs, including autism and PMLD. The role includes safeguarding leadership, family engagement and oversight of counselling and ELSA provision.

The post covers Upper or Lower School with duties spanning safeguarding, student advocacy and improving outcomes. Start is September 2026, subject to enhanced DBS checks.