At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead support for students with SEND in a nurturing 14-16 Skills Programme.
- Company: Leeds City College, dedicated to inclusive education and student success.
- Benefits: Generous annual leave, pension schemes, CPD opportunities, and employee wellbeing initiatives.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable young people while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Level 5 teaching qualification or relevant SEND qualification; strong knowledge of SEND legislation.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About The Role
Leeds City College are seeking an experienced SEND professional to lead on the placement and support of students with Educational Health Care Plans, SEND and needs primarily in the 14‑16 Skills Programme, and if required, the 14+ Academies. You will be an operational main point of contact with parents and curriculum staff and contribute towards positive outcomes for disadvantaged and vulnerable students. In the future, there may be scope to manage a team of other professionals. The 14‑16 Skills Programme is a safe and inclusive environment that is accepting of everyone. The design and ethos of the provision allow young people to flourish with smaller class sizes, a reduced curriculum, and focus on vocational based learning. The 14‑16 Skills Programme provides opportunities to young people to maximise their potential, raise aspirations, and embrace their individuality. Relationship building is at the heart of its ethos, and a high staff to student ratio allows learners to thrive and develop holistically.
What You Will Do
- Develop knowledge and understanding of SEND legislation and how this impacts on the local offer, school/SILC/College, and employer contexts.
- Support with the annual review process of EHCPs by chairing meetings and completing paperwork that meets the Local Authority standards and within statutory timelines.
- Complete the college’s quality assurance training programme for conducting annual reviews of EHCPs - ‘The Licence To Review’.
- Ensure delivery of support in line with assessed needs and funding for all High Needs Learners.
- Support with evidence for funding claims for 14‑16 provision.
About You
We are seeking an experienced, compassionate, and highly organised SEND professional who is passionate about improving outcomes for vulnerable and disadvantaged young people.
The Successful Individual Will
- Hold a Level 5 teaching qualification or relevant SEND / Learning Support related qualification or willingness to work towards.
- English and Mathematics at Level 2 or above and a willingness to improve in one or both disciplines to level 3 or above.
- Have strong knowledge of SEND legislation, EHCP processes, and inclusive practice, alongside the ability to build positive, trusting relationships with learners, families, curriculum staff and external agencies.
- Be confident chairing annual reviews, managing statutory processes and ensuring support is delivered in line with assessed needs and funding requirements.
- Share the values and ethos of the 14‑16 Skills Programme: placing relationships at the centre of practice, championing individuality, and creating a safe, nurturing environment where young people can thrive both academically and personally.
Benefits
The group offers a range of excellent benefits, including:
- Annual Leave: Curriculum and Management – 44 days plus bank holidays; Curriculum support and business support – 39 days plus bank holidays.
- Pension Schemes With Generous Employer Contributions: Teachers’ Pension Scheme, Local Government Pension Scheme, People’s Pension Scheme.
- CPD Opportunities: Annual staff conference plus 2 additional staff development days.
- Qualifications Including PGCE, Apprenticeships, Leadership And Management Courses.
- Employee wellbeing initiatives: Family Friendly Policies, discounted onsite spa (Printworks) and gym (Park Lane).
- Travel and commuting: Discounted travel available through Metro card, Northern Rail, First Bus, Arriva Bus and Cycle to work schemes.
- Flexible and hybrid working opportunities: Please speak to the recruiting manager regarding flexible opportunities as these differ between roles.
SAFEGUARDING
At Luminate Education Group we are committed to the safeguarding and welfare of all our students. We expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful applicants will be required to complete mandatory pre‑employment checks which include an enhanced DBS check, online checks and must have two satisfactory references. Please be aware that it is a criminal offence to apply for this post if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity in connection to children.
EQUALITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in recruitment is key to our Group’s values. We are dedicated to fostering a workplace that embraces equality, diversity and inclusion in all its forms, where every candidate is treated with fairness, respect, and equity. Our recruitment processes are designed to ensure equal opportunities, remove bias, and promote a diverse talent pool.
RECRUITMENT AGENCIES
We do not accept unsolicited CV’s and applications from agencies and will not be liable for any fee in connection with a candidate that has been submitted speculatively through any agency that has not been expressly instructed for a particular vacancy as part of our Preferred Supplier List.
SEND Lead Practitioner (14–16 Skills Programme) in Leeds employer: Leeds City College
Leeds City College is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for SEND professionals. With a strong emphasis on employee wellbeing, generous annual leave, and extensive professional development opportunities, staff are empowered to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable young people. The college's commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion ensures that every team member is valued and respected, making it a truly rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Lead Practitioner (14–16 Skills Programme) in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved with SEND. Attend local events or workshops to meet people who can give you insights or even refer you to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the college and its SEND programmes. Understand their ethos and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their mission. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills! Get a friend to throw some common interview questions your way, especially around SEND legislation and inclusive practices. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Lead Practitioner (14–16 Skills Programme) in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for SEND:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged young people shine through. Share personal experiences or insights that highlight why you care about SEND and how you can make a difference.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of SEND Lead Practitioner. Highlight your relevant qualifications, experience with EHCPs, and your understanding of SEND legislation. This shows us that you’re serious about the position and understand what it entails.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We want to see your skills and experiences without having to sift through unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
How to prepare for a job interview at Leeds City College
✨Know Your SEND Legislation
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of SEND legislation and how it impacts the local offer. Being able to discuss this confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the rules, but that you understand their practical implications for students and staff.
✨Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills
Since relationship building is at the heart of the 14-16 Skills Programme, prepare examples of how you've successfully built trust with students, families, and colleagues in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to create a nurturing environment.
✨Prepare for the Annual Review Process
Familiarise yourself with the annual review process for EHCPs. Be ready to discuss how you would chair meetings and ensure that all paperwork meets Local Authority standards. This shows that you’re proactive and organised.
✨Embrace the Ethos of the Programme
Understand and embody the values of the 14-16 Skills Programme. Be prepared to talk about how you can champion individuality and create a safe space for young people to thrive. This alignment with their ethos will make you a standout candidate.
