Deputy Head of Learning Support (SEND)

Key Responsibilities

1. Support the Head of Learning Support to manage a team of Assessors ensuring that the assessment process and recommendations are in line with both internal and external deadlines and meets the guidelines of awarding bodies and JCQ.
2. Undertake line management and appraisal of designated group of staff within the team.
3. Oversee data production for your area of responsibility working with the Head and HNF Co-ordinators to ensure that funding is claimed accurately and in a timely manner.
4. Collaborate with Heads of School Teachers and Pastoral Support Leaders and staff to ensure students needs are met within their normal way of working.
5. Support the Head of Learning Support to manage the effective and efficient production of Individual Teaching Plans through supportive discussion and interviews with learners to inform teachers and support teams based in the learners strengths and attributes and promoting strategies for independence.
6. To be able to offer advice and support on new support strategies and appropriate technologies enabling independence and future proofing learners skills to enable independence and progression.
7. To identify and carry out the assessment of students with Specific Learning difficulties/disabilities and complete exam assessments in accordance with the college process and JCQ guidelines.
8. To Support the Head of Learning Support to oversee and manage the planning of individual learning programmes and provide support which best meets the learners needs as determined through the assessment process. To advise students and staff in adapting materials to enable access for those with a specific learning difficulties/disability and those with SEND.
9. To liaise with the exams team with regards to applications for access arrangements.
10. Manage appropriate deadlines for completion of EAA ensuring that information is submitted in a timely manner.
11. Implement a quality process which ensures the high quality of learning support assessment and the accurate appropriate and timely sharing with relevant staff.
12. To work with staff to identify the most appropriate technology/equipment to meet the needs of individual learners and assist learners in using technology.

1. Significant successful practice in supporting learners with learning difficulties/disabilities/ or special educational needs (including assessing for EAA and teaching 1:1 and small groups)
2. Extensive working knowledge of inclusive practices in education assessing the needs of students and apprentices and the implementation of strategies to support their development.
3. Ability to work to deadlines and liaise appropriately with staff at all levels to support sharing of assessment findings to inform inclusive teaching learning and assessment.
4. Experience of working with a wide range of SEND learners with an EHCP and disadvantaged learners.
5. Experience of effective team working and promoting effective relationships between staff and students.
6. Ability to develop supportive working relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
7. Knowledge of statutory EHCP processes including the SEND Code of Practice and experience of supporting students to track progress over time and celebrate success towards outcomes in annual reviews.
8. Detailed understanding of curriculum developments and national initiatives in additional learning support.
9. Knowledge of good safeguarding practice and experience of implementing safeguarding practices
10. Knowledge of the Equality Act 2010 and reasonable adjustments in an education setting.

1. Kindness and extensive knowledge of person-centred practice
2. A passion and interest in creating outstanding and enjoyable experiences for all learners
3. Leadership and inter-personal skills
4. Ability to manage and resolve a range of situations in the best interests of the students
5. Ability to contribute to the whole College experience
6. Effective communicator
7. Flexible approach
8. Logical approach to problem solving
9. Excellent IT information management and reporting skills

Skills Knowledge and Expertise

1. Proven experience working with SEND students in a Further Education setting including supporting students with a variety of learning difficulties and disabilities
2. Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent or significant experience within SEND teaching/support
3. A recognised qualification related to SEND
4. EAA Assessors Qualification
5. Significant and demonstrable management experience in an educational environment (FE desirable)
6. Knowledge of SEND legislation including the SEND Code of Practice and the Equality Act 2010
7. Proven experience of liaising with and developing positive collaborative working relationships with teaching teams parents outside agencies and local authorities
8. Strong organisational and time-management skills with the ability to prioritise workload and manage competing demands effectively
9. Proven ability to design/deliver appropriate CPD to support staff and teachers
10. High levels of computer literacy facilitating accurate and timely data reporting
11. Ability to manage to tight deadlines and conflicting priorities
12. Awareness and understanding of the SEND landscape and policies and the impact on the Further Education Sector

1. Experience of delivering SEND related training.

Benefits