Description
We are seeking a highly organised, compassionate and experienced Principal Support Officer to join our Foundation Learning department at Sandwell College. This is a key leadership role responsible for the day-to-day management of the Learning Support Team and the delivery of high-quality support for learners with severe learning difficulties, disabilities and complex needs.
Reporting to the Head of Section – Foundation Learning, you will play a vital role in promoting learner independence, wellbeing and positive educational outcomes, while ensuring compliance with EHCP requirements, safeguarding standards and local authority expectations.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead, manage and organise the Learning Support Team, including staffing, timetabling, rooming and operational procedures
* Assess learner support needs and oversee the design, implementation and review of individual support plans, EHCP provision and risk assessments
* Monitor and evidence the effectiveness of learning support through registers, attendance tracking, audits and progression reviews
* Line manage Learning Support staff and agency staff, including induction, appraisals, absence management and professional development
* Lead on CPD for Learning Support Assistants, ensuring staff maintain up-to-date skills and statutory compliance
* Provide direct learning support where required, modelling best practice and maintaining professional competence
* Work collaboratively with curriculum teams to ensure support provision enables effective curriculum delivery
* Provide pastoral care, contribute to safeguarding processes and liaise with parents, carers, local authorities and external agencies
* Support enrolment, induction, reviews, events, enrichment activities and wider college initiatives
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
* Relevant Level 3 qualification or above in Learning Support, SEND, Education, Health & Social Care or a related field
* Significant experience supporting learners with severe learning difficulties, disabilities and complex needs
* Proven experience of leading or managing staff, including performance reviews and development
* Strong understanding of SEND legislation, the SEND Code of Practice and inclusive education
* Excellent communication, organisational and leadership skills
* Experience working with EHCPs, safeguarding procedures, behaviour management strategies and multi-agency partnerships
* Ability to work flexibly and collaboratively across departments in a busy education environment
Benefits
✅ Top-Tier Salaries – We offer sector-leading pay with some of the most competitive salaries around
🏖 Unbeatable Time Off – Enjoy 35-50 days of annual leave, plus 8 bank holidays AND extra time off at Christmas – because work-life balance is essential
🚀 Fast-Track Your Career – Take advantage of dedicated development days, career pathways, and talent schemes designed to help you grow and succeed
🚴 Cycle to Work Scheme – A healthier, greener, and more cost-effective way to commute
💆♀️ Exclusive Discounts on Onsite Services – Save on Bliss Hair & Beauty Salon, dog grooming, car health checks, and more
🏋 Fitness Perks – Enjoy our college gym facilities or discounted rates at local gyms to keep you feeling your best
💰 Generous Pension Contributions – We invest in your future with 23.68% employer contribution for teaching roles and 21.5% for non-teaching roles
🛍 Retail & Travel Discounts – Unlock exclusive savings on high street brands, local transport, cross-country travel. UNIDAYS, Student Beans and Blue Light Discount
📜 Free Will Writing – We’ve got your back with professional support for your future planning
💉 Free Flu Vaccine – Stay healthy and protected at no cost to you
🧘 Wellbeing Support – Access confidential counselling services and wellness platforms to support your mental and emotional health
🏆 We Celebrate You! – We recognise and appreciate your hard work with awards, recognition events, and celebration days throughout the year.
Sandwell Family of Colleges is a group of educational institutions located in the West Midlands region of England, offering a diverse range of courses and programs to cater to various interests and career aspirations. The family comprises of Sandwell College, Cadbury Sixth Form College, Central St Michael, Professional Academy, Central St Michaels Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Centre. With state-of-the-art facilities, experienced teaching staff, and a commitment to student success, the Sandwell Family of Colleges provides a supportive and inclusive learning environment, enabling individuals to pursue their educational and career goals effectively.
Sandwell Family of Colleges is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We have robust policies and procedures in place to ensure a safe and secure learning environment for all our students and staff. At Sandwell Family of Colleges, we believe that creating a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment is essential for enabling our students to thrive academically and personally. We are unwavering in our commitment to safeguarding and will continue to uphold the highest standards to protect the most vulnerable members of our community.
Please note that as part of our onboarding process, you will be required to either undergo an Enhanced DBS check or provide your existing Enhanced DBS certificate if you are registered with the Update Service.
We expect all applicants to be fully transparent about any information that may be disclosed as part of this check so that we can discuss it at the earliest opportunity. For more information on what may show on your Enhanced DBS check please visit:
We reserve the right to close this job vacancy before the advertised application deadline.