Deputy Director of Academic Support in England

Bedford School strives to create an environment in which pupils who have additional learning needs, are neurodivergent or for whom English is an additional language can flourish, as well as fostering a community that celebrates inclusivity and diversity. The school seeks to appoint an enthusiastic and well‑qualified professional to be Deputy Director of Academic Support from September 2026.

This is a new post, created to provide additional capacity to the school's support for pupils with additional needs in the context of recent changes to the requirements for access arrangements for examinations. The Deputy Director of Academic Support will report to the Director of Academic Support and work closely with them to lead a large, experienced and well‑resourced team of colleagues providing support to pupils with identified SEND in the Prep and Upper phases of Bedford School.

• Ensure the School’s assessment processes, record‑keeping and practice are fully compliant with exam board and JCQ regulations.
• Lead the department’s work with colleagues across the school to identify learners requiring access arrangements.
• Co‑ordinate support for pupils in response to progress data, working closely with pastoral and academic leaders.
• Work effectively with teaching staff and parents, ensuring clear communication and collaboration.
• Maintain effective systems that enable pupils who qualify for access arrangements to receive the support they need.
• Act as the school’s resident expert on the requirements of external bodies and examination boards, sharing information with colleagues as appropriate.
• Provide appropriate support to boys, families and colleagues, drawing on an outstanding track record of classroom teaching.
• Advocate for children with additional learning needs, ensuring their individual voice is heard in support decisions.
• Lead professional development through example and support, coordinating high‑quality PD with the Director of Academic Support.

• Outstanding track record of curriculum delivery and classroom teaching in a subject offered by Bedford School.
• Experience working with secondary‑aged pupils, including those preparing for external GCSE and A Level examinations.
• Demonstrated experience with SEND, particularly in relation to access arrangements for external examinations.
• Strong collaborative skills, proven ability to work with families, teaching staff and external specialists.
• Expertise in ensuring that each pupil’s voice is considered in support decisions.
• Capability to lead professional development and support the Director of Academic Support in coordinating high‑quality training.
• Experience in the independent sector and/or a boarding environment is desirable but not essential.
• Enthusiasm to build on the strengths of Bedford School’s unique community to create an environment that enables all pupils to flourish.

Applicants should answer the following questions in the personal statement section:

• Interests and Co‑Curricular Activities: Provide details of any interests or skills you could bring to Bedford School for co‑curricular and extra‑curricular activities.
• Supporting Statement: Explain why you are applying for this post and why you believe you are suitable. Refer to the job description and person specification, and describe any experience and skills gained in previous roles that demonstrate your ability and aptitude to undertake the duties of the post.

Bedford School is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic.