Since November 2021, Alternative Provisions in 22 LAs have successfully piloted the Alternative Provision Specialist Taskforces (APST) model (including within local authority-maintained Pupil Referral Units, AP Academies and AP Free Schools, and increasingly within mainstream schools as well). APST has been seen as transformative for schools involved in the pilot, enabling rapid, early and appropriate intervention, enhancing wider practice in school/s, and driving improved education (and safeguarding) outcomes for children and young people.
APST is a workforce model, which builds capacity and capabilities to deliver rapid, responsive understanding of need and intervention for children. Taskforces are multi-disciplinary teams providing cohesive, holistic support to children, young people and their families who are either in AP or on the cusp of exclusion or suspension from mainstream school. Barnet already have elements of APST within the borough, but we will be enhancing existing arrangements by having specialist professionals working as one multi-disciplinary team, working in schools, PRUs and as part of the Barnet Local Inclusion Support Offer.
The aim is to holistically address the range of challenges children and young people are experiencing to help them re-engage with education, remain safe, and succeed and thrive at school (AP and mainstream) and when they leave. This includes appropriate understanding and support for SEN needs, intervention to address mental wellbeing, regulation and behaviour, and safeguarding needs within or outside the home. APST teams work by providing direct support to children and families, responsively sharing information, delivering training and advice to schools, and embedding practice within the whole school.
The post holder will report to Head of Specialist Inclusion Service, and work together with the APST, Multi-Disciplinary Teams at the PRUs, schools, settings and the wider professional network across the Local Area SEND and AP system.
This is an exciting opportunity to join our dynamic, friendly and supportive team that are dedicated to providing a high-quality service to schools and settings.
Successful candidates will be joining a creative and highly skilled team that is well-regarded and valued by schools and services across Barnet. You will benefit from a supportive senior leadership team committed to promoting the wellbeing of staff and work-life balance, ongoing training and development.
For an informal discussion about the post, please contact:
Joann Moore
Co-Head of Specialist Inclusion Service and Barnet Early Years SEND Team
Joann.moore@barnet.gov.uk
Closing date for applications: 14/10/2026 - 12PM Noon
Interview date: 20/10/2026
Barnet Education and Learning Service is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) with barred list check is required for all successful applicants. In addition, if this post is likely to come under the requirements of the Childcare (Disqualification) 2009 Regulations, the successful applicant will be required to declare.
Taskforce Manager - Alternative Provision Specialist in London employer: Borough of Barnet
Barnet Education & Learning Service (BELS) is an exceptional employer that prioritises a supportive and collaborative work culture, making it an ideal place for finance professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in the education sector. With a competitive salary, contributory pension scheme, and a strong commitment to work-life balance, employees enjoy the flexibility of predominantly remote work while being part of a motivated team dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. BELS also values diversity and equity, offering ongoing professional development opportunities and fostering an inclusive environment for all staff.
