At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop inclusive education strategies for children with additional needs.
- Company: Specialist education organisation committed to improving outcomes for all learners.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, health support, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Supportive environment with opportunities for career progression and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a genuine impact on children's educational experiences and promote inclusivity.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and proven leadership experience in SEND or inclusion.
A specialist education organisation is seeking an experienced and passionate Head of Inclusion & SEND to lead and develop its strategic approach to inclusive education and SEND provision. This is an exciting opportunity for an established SEND leader who is committed to improving outcomes for children and young people with additional needs and ensuring inclusive practice is embedded across the organisation.
The successful candidate will play a key leadership role in shaping SEND strategy, supporting staff development, overseeing inclusive practice, and ensuring all learners have equitable access to high-quality education and support.
The RoleThe Head of Inclusion & SEND will lead on the development, implementation, and oversight of SEND and inclusion provision across the organisation, ensuring compliance with current legislation and best practice. Working collaboratively with leadership teams, teaching staff, families, and external agencies, the successful candidate will champion a culture of inclusion, support curriculum adaptation, and help drive positive educational outcomes for all learners.
Key Responsibilities- Lead and oversee the organisation's SEND and inclusion strategy
- Develop and implement inclusive policies and practices in line with current legislation and best practice
- Support staff with inclusive teaching strategies, curriculum adaptation, and differentiated learning approaches
- Deliver training and professional development relating to SEND and inclusive education
- Act as a key point of contact for students, families, carers, and external professionals regarding SEND provision
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, inclusion initiatives, and learner outcomes
- Support the development of specialised programmes tailored to diverse learner needs
- Promote a positive culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and wellbeing across the organisation
- Ensure compliance with statutory SEND requirements, reporting, and safeguarding expectations
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent NPQ for SENCOs, NASENCO, or equivalent SEND qualification
- Proven leadership experience within SEND, inclusion, or specialist education settings
- Strong understanding of SEND legislation, EHCP processes, and inclusive education practice
- Experience developing inclusive curricula and supporting diverse learner needs
- Excellent communication, leadership, and organisational skills
- Ability to build strong relationships with staff, families, and external agencies
- A collaborative, proactive, and solution-focused approach
- Experience delivering staff training and CPD
- Experience within specialist, alternative provision, or inclusive education environments
- Experience monitoring provision impact through data and learner outcomes
- Knowledge of trauma-informed and relational practice
- Experience leading multi-agency collaboration and support planning
- Permanent full-time opportunity
- Competitive salary package
- Company pension scheme
- Health and wellbeing support
- Free parking
- Referral programme
- Ongoing CPD and professional development opportunities
- Supportive and collaborative leadership environment
- The opportunity to make a genuine and lasting impact on children and young people's educational experiences and outcomes
This role would suit an experienced SENCO, Inclusion Lead, Head of Learning Support, or SEND leader looking to progress within a values-led organisation committed to inclusive education and learner success.
Head of Inclusion & SEND employer: Dovetail and Slate
Dovetail and Slate is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a culture of inclusion and support within the specialist education sector. Located in North West England, we offer a competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellbeing support, and ongoing professional development opportunities, all within a collaborative leadership environment. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the educational experiences of children and young people with additional needs while advancing your career in a values-led organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Inclusion & SEND
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved in SEND and inclusion. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, whether at interviews or networking events, share your experiences and commitment to inclusive education. Let them see your enthusiasm for making a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how you would handle specific scenarios related to SEND and inclusion. Practising your responses will help you feel more confident and articulate during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for passionate individuals like you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Inclusion & SEND
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in SEND and inclusion. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for inclusive education shine through! Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles. We love candidates who are genuinely committed to improving outcomes for children and young people.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and experience.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dovetail and Slate
✨Know Your SEND Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the latest SEND legislation and best practices. Being able to discuss how you’ve implemented these in previous roles will show your expertise and commitment to inclusive education.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led teams or initiatives in the past. Highlight your experience in developing inclusive policies and supporting staff with teaching strategies, as this is crucial for the Head of Inclusion & SEND role.
✨Engage with Real Scenarios
Think of specific challenges you've faced in SEND settings and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to diverse learner needs, which is key for this position.
✨Build Relationships
Be ready to discuss how you’ve built strong relationships with families, staff, and external agencies. This role requires collaboration, so showing that you can foster a positive culture of inclusion will set you apart.
