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- Tasks: Lead initiatives to drive inclusion and transform educational experiences for disadvantaged youth.
- Company: Southwark Council, committed to equity and community impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and young people in Southwark.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading educational services and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to tackling inequalities and promoting diversity.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Lead with Purpose. Drive Change. Make a Difference. We are seeking an ambitious and experienced leader to drive inclusion across Southwark and positively impact the lives of children and young people.
About the Role: As our Head of Education Inclusion, you will champion equity, shape policy and lead services that transform the experiences of children and young people, particularly those facing disadvantage. Your responsibilities will include:
- Overseeing all alternative provision and primary behaviour support services
- Managing school admissions for complex or hard-to-place pupils and ensuring fair access protocols
- Leading 16+ pathways and support for young people with EHCPs
- Directing the Virtual School and Virtual Headteacher function
Working closely with schools, families and partners, you will remove barriers to learning, maximise opportunities and ensure statutory duties are delivered in line with Southwark 2030. You will also report to (and deputise for) the Deputy Director of Children’s Services for Learning and Inclusion.
About You: You will be a strategic, innovative and collaborative leader with:
- Proven experience leading services for vulnerable young people in education
- Expertise in statutory frameworks, inclusion and alternative provision
- Strong partnership, negotiation and communication skills
- A track record of delivering change, improving outcomes and driving innovation
- A passion for equity, inclusion and progression for all learners
To Be Considered for Interview: Your cover letter (maximum two sides of A4) must clearly outline how you meet the job description and person specification in order to be considered.
Contact Information: For an informal discussion about the role, contact Anna Chiva, Deputy Director Children’s Services (Learning and Inclusion) via email at Anna.Chiva@southwark.gov.uk.
Additional Information: Advert close date: 11:59pm on Sunday 4th January 2026. Shortlisting date/s: week commencing 5th January 2026. Interview date/s: week commencing 19th January 2026. The closing date is given as a guide. We reserve the right to close this vacancy once a sufficient number of applications has been received. We strongly advise you to complete your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
We are an organisation who is passionate about our people and understands that richness of diversity is a requirement to provide the best possible services to our communities. This is demonstrated through our council-wide ambitious commitment to tackle racial inequality in our communities and workforce through our Southwark Stands Together initiative. We particularly welcome applications from members of the black, Asian and ethnic minority communities to increase representation at senior management level in the Council. As part of our commitment to inclusion, we offer guaranteed interviews for specific groups of people. To qualify, you'll need to meet the minimum requirements for the role, and identify with one of the below criteria:
- Members of the Armed Forces and veterans
- Are currently in care, or have previously been in care
- If you consider yourself to be disabled or if you have a long-term health condition
About Southwark: We are the largest local authority social landlord in London, managing 55,000 homes lived in by 40% of Southwark’s residents. We are home to over 18,300 businesses including iconic London venues and social enterprises, and we have a young, diverse and growing population. At Southwark we are committed to making our borough just and fair and are taking positive action to tackle inequalities. Our residents and communities are our greatest asset and the passion we have for Southwark is shared by millions of Londoners who enjoy our outstanding cultural offer, use our hospitals and attend our universities. Our refreshed borough plan and focus on Southwark Stands Together, which is our work with Southwark’s communities and the council’s staff to tackle racism, injustice and inequality, underpins all that we do.
Salary Range (Full time equivalent) £69,537 - £86,766
Head of Education Inclusion employer: Southwark Council
Contact Detail:
Southwark Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Education Inclusion
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to education inclusion. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to express your commitment to equity and inclusion. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your dedication to making a difference in the lives of young people.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its initiatives. Familiarise yourself with Southwark’s goals and challenges in education inclusion. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate that you’re the perfect fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a real impact in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Education Inclusion
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure your cover letter speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience and how it aligns with the role of Head of Education Inclusion. We want to see your passion for equity and inclusion shine through!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of how you've driven change and improved outcomes for vulnerable young people. We love seeing tangible results that demonstrate your impact!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your cover letter to a maximum of two sides of A4, as requested. We appreciate clarity and brevity, so make every word count while ensuring you cover all key points.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application via our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application is seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Southwark!
How to prepare for a job interview at Southwark Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the role of Head of Education Inclusion. Familiarise yourself with Southwark's policies on inclusion and alternative provision. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals and demonstrate your commitment to driving change.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your strategic and collaborative leadership style. Think about specific instances where you've successfully led services for vulnerable young people, improved outcomes, or driven innovation. Be ready to discuss how you can apply these skills in the context of Southwark.
✨Engage with the Community
Research Southwark’s community initiatives, especially those related to equity and inclusion. Be prepared to discuss how you would engage with schools, families, and partners to remove barriers to learning. Showing that you understand the local context will set you apart.
✨Craft a Compelling Cover Letter
Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Clearly outline how your experience meets the job description and person specification. Use specific examples to illustrate your passion for equity and inclusion, and make sure it reflects your personality and enthusiasm for the role.
