Head of Inclusion

We are seeking an experienced, values-driven and strategic leader to join our clients senior leadership structure as Head of Inclusion. This is a key leadership role responsible for shaping and delivering an ambitious whole-college inclusion strategy that ensures every learner can thrive, achieve and progress.

The successful candidate will lead and coordinate inclusive provision across the college, embedding inclusive practice into curriculum planning, teaching, learning, learner support and the wider student experience. You will champion equity, opportunity and learner voice while ensuring outstanding support for learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), disadvantaged learners and those facing barriers to participation and achievement.

This role provides strategic and operational leadership across Employability and Life Skills provision, inclusive learning support services, supported internships, transitional pathways and specialist SEND provision. You will work collaboratively with curriculum leaders, senior managers, external agencies, parents, carers and employers to create a highly inclusive culture where all learners are empowered to succeed.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Provide strategic leadership for inclusion across the college, ensuring inclusive practice is embedded consistently throughout teaching, learning, assessment and learner support. Lead the development and implementation of a college-wide inclusion strategy aligned to organisational priorities, learner needs and statutory responsibilities. Promote a culture of high expectations, collaboration, accountability and continuous improvement within all inclusion services. Act as a visible champion for inclusion, equality, diversity and learner voice across the organisation. Support senior leaders and curriculum managers in embedding inclusive and adaptive teaching approaches throughout all curriculum areas.
• Inclusive Learning and SEND Provision: Lead and coordinate the Inclusive Learning Team, including Employability and Life Skills provision, ensuring high-quality and learner-centred support. Ensure learners with SEND, EHCPs and additional support needs receive effective, timely and impactful interventions. Oversee the planning, delivery and quality assurance of EHCP annual reviews and transition processes. Monitor learner progress, achievement, attendance and participation across supported provision, implementing targeted interventions where required. Ensure support strategies are accurately recorded, reviewed and evaluated using relevant systems and learner data. Lead the effective deployment of support staff to meet learner needs and curriculum priorities.
• Alternative and Transitional Pathways: Oversee alternative and transitional provision, including Early College Transfer (14–16) programmes and supported internships. Ensure all provision is compliant, learner-focused and aligned to progression, employability and independence outcomes. Develop and strengthen partnerships with employers and external agencies to expand meaningful work experience and supported employment opportunities. Lead initiatives that improve progression pathways for learners with additional needs and barriers to learning.
• Quality Improvement and Staff Development: Design and deliver staff development and training programmes to strengthen inclusive teaching practice and SEND awareness across the college. Conduct observations, audits and reviews of support provision to ensure high standards, consistency and continuous improvement. Use data and quality assurance processes to evaluate the effectiveness of support services and inform strategic planning. Promote reflective practice, coaching and professional development across inclusion teams.
• Funding, Resources and Compliance: Maximise Additional Learning Support (ALS) and SEND-related funding to ensure learners receive high-quality support and resources. Manage inclusion budgets effectively, ensuring financial sustainability, accountability and value for money. Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, safeguarding responsibilities and sector best practice. Lead the review and development of inclusion-related policies, procedures and service standards.
• Partnership and Stakeholder Engagement: Build strong and effective relationships with learners, parents, carers, employers, schools, local authorities and external agencies. Promote a positive and inclusive image of the college through collaborative working and stakeholder engagement. Chair inclusion panels involving learners with SEND and ensure decision-making is informed, fair and learner-centred.

Line Management Responsibility

The postholder will provide leadership and direct line management for:

• Employability and Life Skills Curriculum Area Leader
• Early College Transfer (14–16) Manager
• SEND Support Team Leaders x2
• SEND Manager

Person Specification - Essential Criteria

• Qualifications: Degree level qualification or equivalent professional experience. Relevant SEND, inclusion, education or leadership qualification. Evidence of continued professional development.
• Experience: Significant leadership experience within education, SEND or inclusive learning environments. Proven experience of leading inclusive provision and supporting learners with SEND and additional needs. Experience of managing multidisciplinary teams and driving service improvement. Experience of managing budgets and maximising SEND or ALS funding. Experience of working collaboratively with external agencies, employers and stakeholders. Experience of implementing quality assurance and performance improvement processes.
• Knowledge and Skills: Strong understanding of SEND legislation, EHCP processes and inclusive education practice. Excellent leadership, communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to analyse learner data and use evidence to drive improvement. Strong organisational and strategic planning skills. Ability to influence, motivate and inspire staff and stakeholders. Commitment to equality, diversity, safeguarding and learner-centred practice.
• Personal Attributes: Passionate about inclusion and improving learner outcomes. Resilient, proactive and solutions-focused. Collaborative and relationship-driven. High levels of professionalism, integrity and accountability. Committed to continuous improvement and innovation.

Reporting Structure

Reports to: Deputy Principal

Safeguarding and Equality

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. Employment is subject to an Enhanced DBS check. The college is equally committed to promoting equality, diversity, inclusion and belonging across all aspects of college life. Staff are expected to actively contribute to creating a respectful, inclusive and supportive learning environment for all learners and colleagues.

Additional Information

This role description outlines the key duties and responsibilities of the post and is not intended to be exhaustive. The postholder may be required to undertake other duties appropriate to the level of the role in support of the college’s strategic priorities and operational needs. Holiday entitlement is generous and includes bank holidays, with elements that may be directed in line with business requirements.