Shaftesbury Victoria School, run by the disability charity Shaftesbury, is seeking a Head of Student Services to lead pastoral support in either the Upper or Lower School. The post covers pastoral care, family engagement, student advocacy and oversight of counselling and ELSA provision. Pupils have complex physical and learning needs, including autism and PMLD, and the holder also acts as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead. Start is September 2026, subject to an enhanced DBS check.
What the job involves
- Leading and managing a dedicated Student Services team
- Acting as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead for a designated student cohort
- Ensuring high standards of safeguarding, attendance, health, welfare and compliance
- Building partnerships with families and carers
- Championing student voice, self-advocacy, inclusion and positive behaviour support
- Working with parents, local authorities and external agencies
- Driving inclusive practice and equitable access to learning
- Contributing strategically to school improvement and student outcomes
- Delivering safeguarding training and promoting best practice across the school
- Using data and insight to inform decisions and improve support services
- Overseeing counselling, ELSA provision and wider wellbeing services
- Supporting the school's culture of inclusion and belonging
What’s required
Experience
- Significant experience in a pastoral, SEND, safeguarding or multi-agency role
Skills & knowledge
- Understanding of supporting children and young people with physical disabilities and complex needs
- Excellent leadership, communication and relationship-building skills
- Proactive, solution-focused approach
- Collaborative working across teams
- Emotional intelligence and resilience
Checks & eligibility
- Enhanced DBS check
- Relevant safeguarding checks
Other
- Unwavering commitment to safeguarding and student wellbeing
Nice to have
- Experience working with students with autism spectrum condition (ASC)
What’s offered
- Ongoing professional development and training
- Opportunities to grow your career
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Contact Details:
The Methodist Church in Britain Recruitment Team
