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Our client is seeking an exceptional and experienced Head of SEN / Director of Inclusion to lead and transform provision for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This is a strategic, standalone leadership role, sitting within (or alongside) the Senior Leadership Team, with full responsibility for shaping the vision, strategy, and delivery of SEND provision across the school. The successful candidate will be a confident and credible leader, capable of driving whole-school improvement, influencing senior stakeholders, and ensuring that inclusive practice is embedded at every level.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and implementation of a whole-school SEND and inclusion strategy
- Shape a culture of high expectations and inclusive excellence across the school
- Advise the Headteacher and Governors on SEND, inclusion, and statutory responsibilities
- Act as the school's lead professional for SEND
- Take full ownership of SEND provision, ensuring it is high-quality, compliant, and impactful
- Oversee EHCP processes, annual reviews, and external agency engagement
- Monitor and drive progress, attainment, and outcomes for pupils with SEND
- Ensure interventions are evidence-based, effective, and value-driven
- Lead, manage, and develop staff involved in SEND provision (including teaching assistants and support staff)
- Deliver high-quality CPD to embed inclusive teaching practices across the school
- Support middle and senior leaders in adapting curriculum and provision
- Champion adaptive teaching and high-quality first teaching for all learners
- Ensure SEND is fully integrated into curriculum design and delivery
- Drive consistency in classroom practice across departments or phases
- Build strong, trusted relationships with parents and carers
- Act as the key liaison with local authorities, educational psychologists, and external professionals
- Represent the school in all SEND-related matters
- Ensure all pupils with SEND are effectively safeguarded and supported
- Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion across the school community
Person Specification
Essential
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- National Award for SEN Coordination (or equivalent)
- Significant experience leading SEND provision
- Proven track record of improving outcomes for pupils with SEND
- Strong understanding of the SEND Code of Practice and statutory frameworks
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and influencing skills
Desirable
- Experience at senior leadership level (Assistant Head / SEN Lead / Inclusion Lead)
- Experience working across multiple schools or within a MAT
- NPQH or other leadership qualification
What Our Client Offers
- A senior leadership role with real strategic influence
- The opportunity to shape and lead SEND provision at a whole-school level
- A collaborative and ambitious leadership team
- Ongoing professional development and leadership progression opportunities
Safeguarding Statement
Our client is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
Contact Detail:
Refuel Talent Recruiting Team
How to prepare for a job interview at Refuel Talent
✨Know Your SEND Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the SEND Code of Practice and statutory frameworks. Brush up on your knowledge about EHCP processes and how to drive progress for pupils with SEND. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the role but are genuinely passionate about making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led teams or initiatives in the past, especially in relation to SEND provision. Be ready to discuss how you’ve influenced senior stakeholders and driven whole-school improvement. This is your chance to demonstrate your leadership style and how it aligns with the school’s vision.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would build relationships with parents, carers, and external professionals. Prepare to discuss strategies for effective communication and collaboration. Showing that you can foster trust and engagement will highlight your commitment to inclusive practice.
✨Emphasise Continuous Development
Talk about your approach to staff development and how you would deliver high-quality CPD for inclusive teaching practices. Share any experiences where you’ve successfully supported colleagues in adapting their curriculum or teaching methods. This will illustrate your dedication to fostering a culture of high expectations and excellence.