At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Learning Support Department and provide high-quality teaching for students with diverse learning needs.
- Company: A supportive Catholic and Benedictine boarding school with a focus on student development.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, free lunches, employee assistance programme, and access to leisure facilities.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional development and a dynamic, innovative staff team.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in an inspiring environment.
- Qualifications: National Award for SEN Coordination and strong knowledge of SEND legislation required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 € per year.
We have a vacancy for a full‑time Head of Learning Support who will also fulfil the role of SENCo to join us from September 2026 or January 2027. We will consider applications from candidates looking to work part‑time or in a job share for the right candidate.
Responsibilities:
- The successful candidate will lead the Learning Support Department, providing high‑quality specialist teaching through one‑to‑one, small‑group and in‑class support, and working closely with subject teachers and pastoral staff.
- They will oversee assessment for learning needs and Examination Access Arrangements, and manage the More Able and Talented (MAT) Register.
- The role includes leadership of departmental staff, responsibility for SEND provision in line with the SEND Code of Practice, effective liaison with parents and external professionals, and direct support for pupils with a range of learning needs.
Key Qualifications:
- Holds the National Award for SEN Coordination
- Strong knowledge of SEND legislation, including the SEND code of practice
- Ability to develop and implement the school’s SEND strategy
- Proven experience of leading and managing SEND provision across a school or setting
- Keeps up to date with key developments in good teaching practice for pupils with SEND
- Confident in analysing data to identify needs, track progress and drive improvement
- Engenders an atmosphere within lessons conducive to active learning and encourages pupils to learn collaboratively
- Dynamic, creative and inspirational, motivating pupils to strive for the best
- Committed to own professional development
- Appreciates the ethos of a Catholic and Benedictine boarding school
What We Offer:
- A competitive pay scale
- An excellent catering facility, offering complimentary lunch for staff
- A free employee assistance programme
- A supportive, skilled and innovative staff team
- An inspiring, intellectually rewarding work environment
- Pupils with highly developed social skills and self‑confidence
- Plenty of opportunities for CPD, pastoral and wider‑curricular involvement
- Complimentary access to on‑site leisure facilities including an indoor swimming pool, gym and squash courts
Additional Information:
The successful applicant will be DBS checked. We strive to be an equal opportunities employer.
Head of Learning Support and SENCO in London employer: The Independent Schools Council
Join our vibrant community as the Head of Learning Support and SENCo, where you will lead a dedicated team in a supportive and innovative environment. With competitive pay, complimentary meals, and access to excellent leisure facilities, we prioritise your professional development and well-being. Our commitment to fostering an inclusive atmosphere ensures that you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of our pupils while enjoying a rewarding career in a prestigious Catholic and Benedictine boarding school.
Contact Detail:
The Independent Schools Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Learning Support and SENCO in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who are already in leadership roles. They might have insider info on openings or even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and values. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their mission, especially regarding SEND provision and collaborative learning.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams or implemented successful strategies in previous roles. We want to see your dynamic and creative side!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Learning Support and SENCO in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with SEND and leadership. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Head of Learning Support and SENCo, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting students with learning needs shine through. We love candidates who are dynamic and creative, so share examples of how you've motivated pupils in the past.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key qualifications and experiences stand out without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest SEND legislation and the SEND Code of Practice. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the basics, but that you’re genuinely passionate about supporting students with diverse learning needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team or department in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you motivated your team to overcome them. This will demonstrate your capability to lead the Learning Support Department effectively.
✨Engage with the School's Ethos
Familiarise yourself with the Catholic and Benedictine ethos of the school. Be ready to discuss how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all pupils.
✨Data-Driven Decision Making
Be prepared to talk about how you’ve used data to track progress and identify learning needs in previous roles. Bring examples of how this has driven improvement in your practice, as it’s crucial for the role to ensure every pupil reaches their potential.
