Trust SEND Lead

We are seeking a Trust SEND Lead to standardise and elevate SEND provision across our 20 schools. Reporting to the Director of Inclusion, this is a hands‑on, site‑based leadership role focused on driving consistent classroom practice and supporting school‑based SENDCOs. This position requires daily travel; you will spend your time on the ground in schools, conducting audits, monitoring compliance and working directly with staff and students.

Responsibilities

• Provide immediate advice, mentorship, and crisis leadership to SENDCOs and school leaders dealing with complex cases.
• Conduct rigorous school audits and deep dives to identify performance trends and implement rapid improvement plans.
• Convert complex SEND data into clear, evaluative briefings for the Trust Board, Head of Governance and senior executives.
• Establish and lead a trust‑wide SENDCO network while designing training to build consistent expertise across all schools.
• Act as the primary trust representative to challenge external agencies and secure essential services from health, social care and local authorities.

Requirements

• QTS, degree‑level education and a recognised SENDCo qualification.
• Significant experience as a SENDCo or senior school leader with direct SEND oversight.
• A background in Primary education is desirable but not essential.
• Proven track record of turning high‑level inclusion strategies into practical classroom interventions.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
• A resilient, confident leader able to establish credibility with Headteachers and hold external partners to account, and committed to being on‑site five days a week across our locations.

Skills & Knowledge

• Expert knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice, Equality Act, EHCP processes and Ofsted inspection frameworks.
• Clear understanding of how SEND intersects with safeguarding, attendance and behaviour.
• Ability to analyse data, spot operational barriers and maintain emotional stability during critical incidents.
• Credible communicator who can quickly build a strong working relationship with Headteachers, school staff and governors.

About the Trust

CSET is made up of four secondary schools and three primary schools, all working towards the shared ambition of creating a great education for every child. Whilst each of our schools retains its own unique identity and ethos, being part of a family of schools brings additional support and opportunity to share expertise, provision and costs across the trust. From September CSET will be part of the newly formed Pathway Trust, which will comprise seven secondary and thirteen primary schools across Somerset, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.

Benefits

• Happy, engaging students who thrive on inspirational leadership.
• A supportive trust and school community.
• Strong collaboration across the trust family of schools and access to a centralised team of specialists across all areas of school operations.
• A commitment to high‑quality CPD, with dedicated time and budget for your development.
• A values‑driven ethos where diversity, equity and inclusion are lived every day.
• Recognition of continuous service (modification order) to protect employment rights and entitlements.
• Teachers' Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions and death‑in‑service cover.
• Occupational sick pay to support you during illness or unexpected emergencies.
• Family‑friendly leave packages to help maintain a healthy work‑life balance.