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- Tasks: Lead and develop SEND provision for sixth form and adult education, ensuring inclusive education.
- Company: Join the Lighthouse Learning Trust, a leader in post-16 education and support services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, permanent contract, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with cross-site working and a commitment to equality and safeguarding.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives by championing inclusive education.
- Qualifications: Experience in educational leadership and a passion for supporting learners with SEND.
The predicted salary is between 61812 - 66144 £ per year.
We are searching for the best education professionals.
Employer Location: Southampton, Hampshire
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time
Salary: £61,812 - £66,144
Posted: 1st April 2026
Start Date: As Soon As Possible
Expires: 6th May 2026 11:59 PM
The Lighthouse Learning Trust consists of two sixth form colleges, St Vincent Sixth Form College in Gosport and Richard Taunton Sixth Form College in Southampton. We are nationally recognised as leaders of post-16 education curriculum and support services for learners with a range of SEND.
The role of Assistant Principal is a new addition to our senior leadership team and we are seeking an exceptional individual to provide highly effective leadership of staffing, resources and learning support services for learners enrolled on to our sixth form and adult education provision at both campuses.
The role requires an inspirational leader to shape and develop SEND provision in response to growing local need and SEND reforms, including curriculum and resource development, staff upskilling, quality assurance and championing inclusive education opportunities. This is essential to enable us to achieve our strategic aims of delivering high quality inclusive education to our local communities that is focused on supporting learners with SEND to achieve excellent outcomes and successful post-college pathways.
The postholder will be the Trust SENCo and be someone with a positive and forward-looking ethos, who understands the importance of an inclusive culture and sets high professional standards, whilst always promoting Trust values. Cross site working is an essential element of this role.
Candidates should apply online by clicking on ‘apply for this job’. The Lighthouse Learning Trust is committed to equality, safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check is required for all staff. We are an equal opportunities employer that recruits on merit and we welcome applications from all members of the community.
Closing date for applications: Wednesday 13th May 2026 at 3pm
Date of interviews: Tuesday 19th or Wednesday 20th May 2026
Assistant Principal Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in Southampton employer: Lighthouse Learning Trust
Contact Detail:
Lighthouse Learning Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Principal Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those involved with SEND. They might have insider info on opportunities or even recommend you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Lighthouse Learning Trust and its approach to SEND. Show us that you understand their values and how you can contribute to their mission of inclusive education.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, but keep it natural. We want to see your passion for SEND and how you can inspire others in the role of Assistant Principal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Principal Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and skills that align with the role of Assistant Principal SEND. We want to see how you can contribute to our mission of providing high-quality inclusive education.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As this role is all about leadership, don’t forget to share examples of how you've successfully led teams or initiatives in the past. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and drive change in SEND provision.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and passion for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our website by clicking on ‘apply for this job’. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lighthouse Learning Trust
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest SEND reforms and best practices in inclusive education. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of learners in post-16 education, as well as the resources available to support them. This will show your passion and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or initiatives in the past, especially in relation to SEND. Think about times when you've championed inclusive practices or developed staff training programmes. This will demonstrate your ability to inspire and lead others.
✨Understand the Trust's Values
Research the Lighthouse Learning Trust and its values thoroughly. Be ready to discuss how your personal ethos aligns with their mission to provide high-quality inclusive education. This connection can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the current challenges the Trust faces regarding SEND provision or how they envision the role evolving. This shows your genuine interest and proactive mindset towards contributing to their goals.