Head of SEN

What we are looking for: We are looking to appoint an insightful, experienced and highly organised SEN/D professional to lead our Learning Support Team. This role can make a significant contribution to the experience students have at the college. The Learning Support team comprises a SEN/D Assessment Manager, Annual Review Officers, Learning Support Co-ordinators, Student Mentors, Departmental LSAs, in class support, and specialist tutors. Knowledge of SEN/D and the legal framework and previous experience of working with students with SEN/D is essential as is the ability to produce, track and monitor data relating to them. You need to be able to communicate with students, parents, colleagues and outside agencies in a professional, prompt and confidential manner. To be successful in this role you will need to be a highly organised SEN/D professional, have a commitment to young people and want to put in place the best possible support to enable them to reach their very best potential. Organisational skills and the ability to effectively communicate are essential as you will be working with a complex caseload of students, managing staff and monitoring the workload within the team. Duties/responsibilities:

• To lead on all aspects of Learning Support for students SEND within the college.
• To lead on a robust programme of Continuing Professional Development for all staff, to ensure the needs of all students are known and met.
• To oversee and provide support for a large team of learning support staff including a SEN/D Assessment Manager, Annual Review Officers, Learning Support Coordinators, Departmental Learning Support Assistants, Learning Support Assistants, Student Mentors and Specialist Support Teachers.
• To work with internal and external services to coordinate the assessment and review of the support needs of students and prospective students, and recommend the most appropriate support package that meets best practice and complies with legal obligations.
• To work with the Heads of Curriculum, Teachers and other Learning Support staff to make sure that the recommended support for learners with SEND is in place and, on an ongoing basis, coordinate the monitoring of the quality and effectiveness of this support.
• To work with internal services including the Safeguarding and Wellbeing team, the Student Experience Team, and the School Links Coordinator to ensure an open dialogue and sharing of information to improve the best outcomes for students with SEND
• To advise on changes to statutory guidance to inform college policy.
• To work alongside and under the direction of the Assistant Principal for Student Experience and Learning Support to ensure the ongoing development of Learning Support services across the college.
• An understanding of funding mechanisms for Learning Support in Further education is desirable.

Benefits: In return, we offer a close-knit, supportive working environment focused on staff and student wellness. Our attractive, green belt campus has excellent facilities and transport links. This initial fixed term contract presents a superb opportunity to make a difference in young people's lives.

• A discounted on-site gym, sports hall, fitness class, osteopathy and day nursery
• 5-minute walk from Ewell East Station
• Discounted Starbucks
• Modern hair and beauty salon offering employee discounts
• Free online qualifications
• Free parking on-site

Nescot is graded 'Good' by Ofsted following its latest inspection in January 2023. Inspectors rated the College as Good in all 8 aspects. The report recognises that students enjoy their courses and are motivated to succeed", and benefit from highly supportive relationships" with staff. Safeguarding arrangements are effective" with regular training for staff, and leaders have in place an effective policy for safer recruitment." At Nescot, we're proud of our inclusive culture and we welcome all applications. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening including checks with past employers and criminal record checks (enhanced DBS clearance). Interviews will be held as and when candidates apply