At a Glance
- Tasks: Support student wellbeing and inclusion, championing diverse voices and needs.
- Company: Shaftesbury Victoria School, a nurturing and inclusive community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking school committed to equity and belonging.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with complex needs.
- Qualifications: Experience in pastoral care or SEND roles, strong communication skills.
- Deputy Head of
- Student
- Services
Contract: Permanent, Term-Time Only Help Every Student Feel Seen, Supported and Valued Shaftesbury Victoria School is seeking an enthusiastic and compassionate Deputy Head of Student Services to join our dedicated team.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced pastoral or SEND professional to play a key role in supporting the wellbeing, inclusion, and success of children and young people with a range of complex needs.
Working alongside the Head of Student Services, you will help shape a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student can thrive.
You will champion the voices of learners with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD), and other neurodiverse profiles, ensuring they feel empowered, respected, and fully included in school life.
As a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL), you will also play a vital role in promoting student safety, supporting families, and ensuring the highest standards of safeguarding and pastoral care.
About the Role This is a varied and rewarding position that combines strategic responsibility with hands-on support for students, families, and colleagues.
You will work closely with the Head of Student Services to lead pastoral provision across either the Upper or Lower School, while helping to coordinate effective wellbeing, counselling, ELSA, and family support services.
Through strong partnerships and collaborative working, you will help ensure students receive the personalised support they need to achieve positive outcomes both in and beyond the classroom.
We're looking for someone who is resilient, empathetic, and solutions-focused, with a genuine passion for supporting children and young people with complex needs.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) for a designated student cohort.
- Support high standards of safeguarding, attendance, health, welfare, and compliance.
- Build positive and trusting relationships with families and carers.
- Champion student voice, inclusion, self-advocacy, and positive behaviour support.
- Work collaboratively with parents, local authorities, and external agencies.
- Support the delivery of effective pastoral, emotional wellbeing, and family support services.
- Promote inclusive classroom practice and equitable access to learning opportunities.
- Contribute to the school's leadership priorities and continuous improvement agenda.
- Support non-verbal and neurodivergent learners to communicate their views and aspirations.
- Help embed Victoria School's commitment to Inclusion and Belonging across all aspects of school life. About You You will have:
- Experience in a pastoral, SEND, safeguarding, education, or multi-agency support role.
- A strong understanding of the needs of children and young people with physical disabilities and complex needs.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- The ability to work collaboratively and build effective partnerships with families and professionals.
- Strong organisational skills, emotional intelligence, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
- An unwavering commitment to safeguarding and promoting student wellbeing.
Experience supporting students with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) is desirable.
Why Join Victoria School?
Victoria School is a welcoming, forward-thinking community where collaboration, innovation, and inclusion are at the heart of everything we do.
When you join us, you'll benefit from
- The opportunity to make a genuine difference in the lives of children and young people with complex needs.
- A supportive and highly skilled team dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for every student.
- A culture that values equity, advocacy, and belonging.
- Ongoing professional development, training, and opportunities to grow your career.
- The chance to contribute to a school where every student is encouraged to thrive, succeed, and be heard.
Join us and help create an environment where every student belongs, every voice matters, and every achievement is celebrated.
To Apply If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Shaftesbury, please click apply to be redirected to our website to complete your application
Deputy Head of Student Services in Poole employer: Shaftesbury group
Victoria School in Poole is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing and success of both its students and staff. With a strong commitment to inclusion and a supportive work culture, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children with complex needs. The school offers ongoing professional development opportunities, fostering personal growth and collaboration within a dedicated team that values every voice and achievement.
