Head of Inclusion & SEND

Head of Inclusion & SEND - Specialist Education

Location: North West England
Salary: 48,000 - 52,000 depending on experience
Contract: Full Time Permanent

A specialist education organisation is seeking an experienced and passionate Head of Inclusion & SEND to lead and develop its strategic approach to inclusive education and SEND provision.

This is an exciting opportunity for an established SEND leader who is committed to improving outcomes for children and young people with additional needs and ensuring inclusive practice is embedded across the organisation.

The successful candidate will play a key leadership role in shaping SEND strategy, supporting staff development, overseeing inclusive practice, and ensuring all learners have equitable access to high-quality education and support.

The Role

• The Head of Inclusion & SEND will lead on the development, implementation, and oversight of SEND and inclusion provision across the organisation, ensuring compliance with current legislation and best practice.
• Working collaboratively with leadership teams, teaching staff, families, and external agencies, the successful candidate will champion a culture of inclusion, support curriculum adaptation, and help drive positive educational outcomes for all learners.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the organisation's SEND and inclusion strategy
• Develop and implement inclusive policies and practices in line with current legislation and best practice
• Support staff with inclusive teaching strategies, curriculum adaptation, and differentiated learning approaches
• Deliver training and professional development relating to SEND and inclusive education
• Act as a key point of contact for students, families, carers, and external professionals regarding SEND provision
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, inclusion initiatives, and learner outcomes
• Support the development of specialised programmes tailored to diverse learner needs
• Promote a positive culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and wellbeing across the organisation
• Ensure compliance with statutory SEND requirements, reporting, and safeguarding expectations

The Ideal Candidate

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent
• NPQ for SENCOs, NASENCO, or equivalent SEND qualification
• Proven leadership experience within SEND, inclusion, or specialist education settings
• Strong understanding of SEND legislation, EHCP processes, and inclusive education practice
• Experience developing inclusive curricula and supporting diverse learner needs
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organisational skills
• Ability to build strong relationships with staff, families, and external agencies
• A collaborative, proactive, and solution-focused approach

Desirable Experience

• Experience delivering staff training and CPD
• Experience within specialist, alternative provision, or inclusive education environments
• Experience monitoring provision impact through data and learner outcomes
• Knowledge of trauma-informed and relational practice
• Experience leading multi-agency collaboration and support planning

What's on Offer

• Permanent full-time opportunity
• Competitive salary package
• Company pension scheme
• Health and wellbeing support
• Free parking
• Referral programme
• Ongoing CPD and professional development opportunities
• Supportive and collaborative leadership environment
• The opportunity to make a genuine and lasting impact on children and young people's educational experiences and outcomes

This role would suit an experienced SENCO, Inclusion Lead, Head of Learning Support, or SEND leader looking to progress within a values-led organisation committed to inclusive education and learner success.

Important Notice

Dovetail and Slate is a specialist education recruitment company. If this role isn't quite right, we welcome your CV and a call to explore other opportunities.

We are committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. All appointments are subject to satisfactory vetting, including a right to work check and, where relevant, an enhanced DBS, PVG (Scotland), or EWC (Wales) check, in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

Dovetail and Slate Ltd phone number removed acts as an Employment Agency and an Employment Business under the Conduct of Employment Agencies and Employment Businesses Regulations 2003.

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Because education matters.

Dovetail and Slate Limited.

Because education matters. Dovetail and Slate Limited phone number removed acts as an Employment Agency.