SBST Head of Department

Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading institution in Johannesburg seeks a dynamic Head of the SBST to enhance learner support and promote inclusive education. This pivotal role involves coordinating interventions for learners with special educational needs, managing admissions processes, and developing Individual Support Plans while collaborating with educators and parents. The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to learner well-being and possess significant experience in inclusive education.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years’ teaching experience in an LSEN or inclusive education environment.
• Registration with the South African Council for Educators (SACE).
• Solid understanding of SIAS and CAPS policies.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the School-Based Support Team in line with inclusive education policies.
• Oversee admissions processes including screening and placement recommendations.
• Coordinate development and implementation of Individual Support Plans.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Record-keeping

Collaboration

Education

B.Ed

Job description

Job Advertisement: SBST Head of Department
The Foundation School
Location: Melville, Johannesburg
Position Type: Permanent with a 3 month probation
Starting Date: 1 August 2025
Closing Date for Applications: 31 July 2025

The Foundation School, a leading Learners with special educational needs (LSEN) institution committed to inclusive education and holistic learner development, is seeking a dynamic and experienced educator to serve as Head of the School-Based Support Team (SBST). This is a strategic leadership role focused on learner support, inclusive admissions, and coordinated interventions to remove barriers to learning and promote learner wellbeing.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the School-Based Support Team (SBST) in line with inclusive education policies and provide comprehensive assistance to students, teachers and staff
• Oversee the admissions process for prospective learners, including screening, assessments, and placement recommendations in accordance with SIAS policy.
• Coordinate the development, implementation, and review of Individual Support Plans (IEP).
• Liaise with educators, parents/guardians, therapists, and external professionals.
• Facilitate SBST meetings, maintain documentation, and track learner progress and support outcomes.
• Support the professional development of staff in inclusive and learner support practices.
• Promote a school culture of safety, inclusion, and psychosocial wellbeing.
• Develop and implement strategies to create a positive and supportive school culture that prioritizes student well
• Coordinate the provision of academic, social-emotional, and guidance services to students.
• Collaborate with teachers and other staff members to identify students’ needs and develop targeted intervention
• Conduct assessments, analyze data, and provide evidence-based recommendations to improve support services.
• Stay updated on the latest research, trends, and best practices in school-based support services.
• A recognised teaching qualification B.Ed
• Registration with the South African Council for Educators (SACE).
• Minimum of 5 years’ teaching experience, preferably in an LSEN or inclusive education environment.
• Solid understanding of SIAS, CAPS, and inclusive education policies.
• Demonstrated experience in learner support, psychosocial services, or remedial education.
• Knowledge and understanding of safeguarding principles in schools, including child protection, mandatory reporting, and maintaining a safe learning environment.
• Strong coordination, communication, and record-keeping skills.
• A clear criminal record.
• Clearance from the National Register for Sexual Offenders and the National Child Protection Register.

Preferred Attributes:

• Passion for inclusive education and learner wellbeing.
• Commitment to upholding child safeguarding and ethical educational practices.
• Strong leadership, administrative, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to collaborate within a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Flexible, empathetic, and solutions-oriented.