At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and coordinate support for students with complex needs, ensuring impactful assistance.
- Company: Join Bournemouth and Poole College, a vibrant community dedicated to transforming lives through education.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27.5-30.5 days leave, pension options, and access to retail discount schemes.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in an inclusive and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Level 2 English and Maths, experience in education, and knowledge of SEND legislation required.
- Other info: Apply early as applications may close before the deadline; safeguarding checks are mandatory.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 36000 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for a High Needs Coordinator to join the team on a full-time, permanent basis. In return, you will receive a competitive salary of £32,224 per annum. At Bournemouth and Poole College, our staff are passionate and committed to achieving the very best outcomes for our students – we transform lives. We recognise and value our people as our most important asset in achieving each of the strategic outcomes within our College's Strategic Plan. We believe it is through our people that an excellent student experience will be delivered, and this will have a positive impact in our local community. We value inclusion and are committed to the promotion of equality, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring we have a diverse, skilled, and motivated workforce who are empowered and engaged. This makes our College a unique, vibrant, and rewarding place to work.
About the role: The High Needs Coordinator plays a vital role in shaping the support that students with complex needs receive. At the heart of this position is the responsibility to lead and coordinate the day-to-day work of the Inclusion Leads and Maths and English Coaches; ensuring their efforts are aligned, purposeful, and impactful. By working in close partnership across the directorate, the coordinator helps create a unified approach to delivering high-quality, compassionate, and effective support where it’s needed most. In collaboration with the SEND Manager, the High Needs Coordinator also plays a key part in monitoring and quality assuring support provision and processes. Together, they work to ensure that systems are not only robust and compliant with statutory duties but also deeply rooted in the real needs of students; ensuring every action is well-evidenced, intentional, and truly makes a difference.
Responsibilities as our High Needs Coordinator will include:
- Lead with purpose by providing operational line management to Inclusion Leads and Maths and English Coaches, ensuring their work forms a united and holistic support system that truly meets the diverse needs of our students.
- Shape futures from the start by managing and developing thoughtful recruitment and induction processes for Academic Support Assistants and Coaches, ensuring every new team member feels welcomed, prepared, and inspired.
- Collaborate for impact by working closely with Learning Managers and Inclusion Leads to continuously review and refine support in each curriculum area; using key data and trends to drive meaningful, strategic improvements.
- Champion quality and growth through a robust observation and feedback process, uplifting the quality of in-class support and coaching sessions while nurturing the professional development of staff.
- Build a stronger team by planning responsive, forward-thinking training CPD that matches evolving student needs with staff expertise, ensuring every student receives the support they deserve.
- Be a source of clarity and confidence by offering expert advice on critical legislation such as the Equality Act 2010 and the SEND Code of Practice 2014, helping the College remain both compliant and compassionate.
- Make progress visible by maintaining clear, accurate records and detailed chronologies; using this information to regularly report on key performance indicators and drive ongoing improvements.
- Strengthen connections by serving as a key liaison for Local Authority SEND officers and external professionals, ensuring effective communication and seamless coordination on complex cases.
- Stand in with pride by deputising for the SEND Manager at essential meetings, representing the college and advocating passionately for inclusive, student-centered practices.
- Create lasting change by working hand-in-hand with team leaders to design dynamic and creative support packages—ensuring students with EHCPs or emerging needs receive personalised, high-impact support every step of the way.
As our High Needs Coordinator, you’ll ideally have:
- Level 2 (or equivalent) English and Maths Education or Training to Level 3.
- Experience managing a busy team and mentoring/coaching staff.
- Experience working in an education setting supporting young people with EHCPs.
- Experience delivering a graduated response service and collaborative Quality First Teaching.
- Competent in Microsoft Office applications.
- In-depth knowledge of SEND legislation and current sector developments.
- Understanding of OFSTED inspection frameworks.
- Wide range of knowledge and CPD in relation to SEND.
- Understanding of SEND funding.
- Excellent communication skills including written and verbal.
- The ability to manage difficult or challenging conversations, explain and break down complex issues effectively.
- Ability to problem solve and manage a busy workload, working to deadlines.
Benefits:
- 27.5 – 30.5 days annual leave plus bank holidays up to 4 days leave during the Christmas closure period.
- Access to discount schemes at multiple retailers.
- Pension options.
- Excellent support and career development with the help of our Teaching and Learning Coaches and Quality department.
Closing Date: 8th June 2025. If you feel you are the right candidate for this High Needs Coordinator role then please click ‘apply’ now! We’d love to hear from you! Applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment. The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to undertake appropriate safeguarding checks which includes an enhanced DBS check as well as providing proof of right to work in the UK.
High Needs Coordinator employer: Bournemouth and Poole College
Contact Detail:
Bournemouth and Poole College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land High Needs Coordinator
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest SEND legislation and the Equality Act 2010. Being well-versed in these areas will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to inclusive education.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former staff at Bournemouth and Poole College. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the college culture and expectations, which can be a great advantage in your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams or supported students with complex needs in the past. Highlighting your practical experience will show that you're ready to take on the responsibilities of the High Needs Coordinator role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and best practices in education support. This knowledge will not only enhance your interview performance but also position you as a forward-thinking candidate who is eager to contribute to the college's mission.
We think you need these skills to ace High Needs Coordinator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the High Needs Coordinator role. Focus on your management experience, knowledge of SEND legislation, and any specific achievements in supporting students with complex needs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for inclusion and education. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully led teams or improved support for students in previous roles, and express your commitment to the College's values.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your qualifications, especially those related to education and SEND. If you have Level 2 English and Maths or any additional training, make sure these are prominent in your application.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is crucial for this role, provide examples in your application of how you've effectively managed difficult conversations or collaborated with various stakeholders in an educational setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bournemouth and Poole College
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a High Needs Coordinator. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks mentioned in the job description, such as leading Inclusion Leads and Maths and English Coaches, and be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with these duties.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge of SEND Legislation
Since this role involves working closely with SEND legislation, be ready to discuss your understanding of the Equality Act 2010 and the SEND Code of Practice 2014. Highlight any relevant experiences where you've applied this knowledge in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a High Needs Coordinator, you'll need to lead and manage a team effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or mentored staff in the past, focusing on your ability to inspire and develop others.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and how you handle challenging situations. Think of specific scenarios from your past experiences where you had to navigate complex issues, particularly in an educational setting, and be ready to share those stories.