Inclusion & SEND Leader — Deputy Head

New College Swindon; Swindon; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

New College Swindon is seeking an experienced SEND & Inclusion Deputy Head – Education of Young People to lead our Inclusive Learning team, shaping high-quality SEND provision and personalised support to help learners overcome barriers and progress to further study, employment, or independent adulthood.

In this role you will lead SEND Practitioners and Learning Support Assistants, collaborate with curriculum colleagues, parents and external agencies, drive staff development and quality

Qualifications

• A degree or relevant professional qualification, or a willingness to achieve one within your first year of employment.
• A teaching qualification (Level 3–5) and an appropriate management qualification (Level 4 or above), or willingness to complete the College's leadership development programme.
• Significant experience supporting young people with SEND and leading high-quality inclusive practice.
• Strong knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice (2014), Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and Learning Support funding.
• Proven experience leading and developing teams while driving quality improvement.
• Excellent leadership, communication and relationship-building skills.
• The ability to analyse data, make informed decisions and continually improve services.
• A proactive, innovative and collaborative approach, with a commitment to delivering outstanding outcomes for learners.
• A genuine passion for inclusion and enabling every learner to reach their full potential.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of SEND Practitioners and Learning Support Assistants, providing coaching, mentoring and performance support.
• Coordinate and oversee personalised support programmes for learners with SEND and those with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
• Drive the development of inclusive practice across the College by promoting high-quality first teaching and reasonable adjustments.
• Enhance and oversee Initial Needs Assessments, Support Needs Discussions and personalised support plans.
• Work closely with curriculum teams, parents, carers and external agencies to ensure seamless transitions and effective multi-agency support.
• Monitor learner progress, quality assurance processes and Learning Support provision, using data to drive continuous improvement.
• Deliver teaching, staff development and CPD activities to build confidence and capability in inclusive practice across the workforce.
• Lead on the development of systems, processes and record keeping to ensure statutory compliance and excellent learner outcomes.
• Support the day-to-day operation of the Learning Support department, including transition events, reviews, staffing and learner support activities.
• Deputise for the Head of Faculty when required.

Job description

New College Swindon is seeking an experienced SEND & Inclusion Deputy Head – Education of Young People to lead our Inclusive Learning team, shaping high-quality SEND provision and personalised support to help learners overcome barriers and progress to further study, employment, or independent adulthood.

In this role you will lead SEND Practitioners and Learning Support Assistants, collaborate with curriculum colleagues, parents and external agencies, drive staff development and quality