Assistant Head of Inclusion Department
Cambridge & Huntingdon
Negotiable start date
£44,409 salary
Are you a passionate leader in education, driven to champion inclusion and elevate outcomes for all students, particularly those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)?
Our client, a dynamic and forward-thinking college, is seeking an exceptional Assistant Head of Department (Inclusion) to play a pivotal role in their Supported Learning department. This full-time, permanent position offers an outstanding opportunity to shape inclusive practices and drive student success.
About the Role:
As Assistant Head of Department (Inclusion), you will be instrumental in coordinating learning support provisions and embedding best practices for equality, diversity, and inclusion. You will ensure that students with SEND and High Needs receive a clear, ambitious, and personalised curriculum that integrates English and Maths within vocational learning. This role requires a leader who can effectively manage teams, drive quality assurance, and foster a truly inclusive learning environment.
Key Responsibilities Include:
1. Leadership & Management:Allocate staffing for students with High Needs and manage learning support timetables effectively Line-manage Learning Support Mentors, conducting regular 1:1 meetings, monitoring performance, and overseeing appraisals Deputise for the Head of Department at key meetings with internal and external stakeholders, including parents and local authorities Lead the review cycle for students with High Needs, ensuring high-quality progress information and accountability for personalised curricula Champion inclusivity, modelling excellent inclusive practice and mentoring colleagues Implement quality activities, including learning walks and deep dives, to meet OFSTED requirements for learning support Collaborate with teams to develop high-quality pedagogical practices for inclusion and adapt resources to ensure all students reach their full potential
2. Teaching & Learning: Potentially deliver high-quality teaching, including evening, Saturday, and summer periods Maintain current learning materials on college platforms and lead on inclusive Schemes of Work and Lesson Plans Integrate and contextualise Functional Skills, Safeguarding, and Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion themes into the curriculum Devise flexible study programmes for students, working with internal and external professionals Monitor and implement EHCPs and High Needs assessment outcomes, ensuring student progress is tracked Facilitate reasonable adjustments in learning opportunities and assessment methods to ensure inclusivity across all environments
3. Student Support & Development: Support the recruitment and admission of new students, attending promotional events and developing transition programmes Develop ambitious work placements to promote inclusion in the workplace for students with SEND Ensure effective communication with students, parents, and external agencies regarding progress
4. Team Collaboration & Professional Development: Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders Lead internal training programmes to develop learning support teams Act as the first point of contact for inclusive practices within the department
What We Are Looking For:
5. Qualifications: A Degree or equivalent in a relevant subject and a teaching certificate (e.g., DTLLS, Cert Ed, PGCE)
6. Experience: Extensive relevant experience in specialist SEND education or post-16 training provision. Proven success in managing a large team and implementing HR policies. Demonstrated ability to advise on and implement reasonable adjustments for students. Experience working with parents, schools, and local authority services.
7. Skills & Abilities: Exceptional interpersonal, administrative, and communication skills. Highly organised with the ability to meet diverse deadlines. Proficient in Microsoft Office and relevant software. A proactive approach to managing diverse teams and fostering staff satisfaction.
Salary & Benefits:
8. Salary: £44,409.00 per annum (pro-rated if part-time).
9. Hours: 37 hours per week, full year (52 weeks)
10. Contract: Permanent
11. Annual Leave: 42 days per annum + public holidays.
12. Pension: Teachers’ Pension Scheme.
Special Conditions:
This role is defined as regulated activity and requires an enhanced DBS check. The post holder must be able to travel independently between multiple campuses.
If you are ready to lead with compassion, innovation, and expertise in the field of inclusion, we encourage you to apply for this impactful role. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a college committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.