Network Lead for SEND, ARK SCHOOLS

Guardian Jobs; London; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established education charity seeks a Network Lead for SEND to enhance support for students with special educational needs across its schools. This full-time, hybrid role involves strategic leadership and collaboration with school leaders and stakeholders to ensure high-quality provision. The successful candidate will drive the SEND strategy, develop adaptive teaching practices, and foster professional development. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, this organization offers a supportive environment and opportunities for professional growth. Join a mission-driven team dedicated to improving educational outcomes for all students.

Benefits

27 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Flexitime policy

Workplace pension scheme with 11% employer contribution

Access to professional development

Request to work fully remotely up to 10 days/year

Office closure during Christmas/New Year

Qualifications

• Degree qualification and UK teaching certification required.
• Proven track record in teaching and SEND leadership.

Responsibilities

• Support implementation of SEND Strategy alongside senior leaders.
• Develop and implement strategies for high-quality adaptive teaching.

Skills

SEND Leadership

Teaching Skills

Communication Skills

Relationship Building

Adaptive Teaching Practices

Data Analysis

Knowledge of SEND Legislation

Education

Degree Qualification

UK Teaching Certification

Job description

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About the Role:

Given the launch of our 10-year inclusion strategy and 3-year SEND strategic plan, Ark is excited to expand the Pastoral and Inclusion team to enhance its capacity and support to all schools in the network.

The Network Lead for SEND will provide strategic and operational leadership to ensure high-quality provision for students with SEND across the Ark network. This includes developing our approach to Quality First Teaching, Adaptive Practice, and classroom provision. The role involves working closely with school leaders, SENCos, central education staff, and other stakeholders. Applications from both primary and secondary phase staff are welcome.

The role reports to the Head of Inclusion. It is a full-time, hybrid position based in West London, with interviews scheduled as follows: first-round (virtual) w/c 12/05/2025 and second-round (in-person) w/c 19/05/2025.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the implementation of the SEND Strategy alongside senior leaders.
• Advise and support school leaders on SEND provision.
• Develop and implement strategies for high-quality, adaptive teaching practices.
• Guide staff in adopting flexible teaching methods suitable for students with SEND.
• Ensure adherence to statutory requirements and best practices in SEND across the network.
• Design and deliver training for leaders, SENCos, teachers, and support staff.
• Foster professional development and share best practices.
• Monitor SEND provision effectiveness through reviews and data analysis.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders and external agencies.
• Prepare reports on SEND outcomes for leadership and stakeholders.
• Ensure accountability for SEND support in all schools.

Key Requirements:

• Right to work in the UK.
• Degree qualification and UK teaching certification.
• Relevant professional development evidence.
• Proven track record in teaching and SEND leadership.
• Knowledge of SEND legislation and policies.
• Understanding of SEND challenges within a multi-academy trust.
• Strong relationship-building skills.
• Passion for improving SEND outcomes.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.

Benefits:

• Hybrid working model with in-office and remote options.
• Request to work fully remotely up to 10 days/year.
• Flexitime policy with core hours 10:00-16:00.
• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing after 3 years.
• Office closure during Christmas/New Year.
• Workplace pension scheme with 11% employer contribution.
• Access to professional development and discounts through Ark Rewards.

About Us:

Ark is an education charity committed to providing quality education to all children. Our network includes 39 schools across several regions, educating 30,000 pupils. We also incubate innovative ventures to enhance education.

Diversity and Inclusion:

We strive for a diverse and inclusive organization, reflecting varied perspectives to strengthen our impact. More about our commitments can be found on our website.

Safeguarding Statement:

Ark is committed to safeguarding and requiring all employees to undertake an enhanced DBS check. Disclosures of criminal records will be considered in context.