Director of SEND

An exceptional opportunity has arisen for the role of Director of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). If you're looking to advance your career and have a passion for inspiring both colleagues and students, this position offers significant potential. We are seeking an experienced Teacher with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), possessing up-to-date knowledge of SEND policies and legal requirements. Candidates who have completed relevant SEND (CPD) and qualifications are preferred, but we also welcome those who demonstrate a willingness to enrol and complete the qualification.

The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the academic and pastoral development, as well as the well-being, of all students with SEN or disability-related needs. Ensuring adequate provision for SEN, including mental health and associated pastoral requirements, and disability support is paramount in this role at the Academy. The individual who secured the position will also sit alongside our other Directors of Faculty on the Extended Senior Leadership Team.

We encourage applications from experienced leaders and outstanding educators, irrespective of their subject expertise. However, expertise in Business, Mathematics, or Spanish would be advantageous.
 Sir Herbert Leon Academy is an 11-19 Mixed Comprehensive in Bletchley, South Milton Keynes. Our academy has 587 learners and employs around 100 dedicated teachers and support staff. The academy's senior leadership team places high priority on colleagues' mental health and work/life balance and has established systems to allow staff to flourish. There is a centralised behaviour system, a clear line management structure and opportunities for personal and professional development. As Sir Herbert Leon is a relatively small secondary school, new staff can foster strong relationships with both colleagues and students very swiftly, which enables them to embed within their new team quickly and know how best to teach students, according to their individual needs. The students are the beating heart of the school; it is a privilege to teach them as we continue on our journey to raise aspirations and outcomes for the local community. 

Our core purpose is to enable all young people to have the opportunities to make exceptional progress both academically and in their lives outside of the classroom so that they are able to live fulfilling and successful lives.

To find out more about Sir Herbert Leon Academy and what the local area has to offer please Click here. 

School visits are welcome, to arrange please contact the Principals PA smarshall@shlacademy.org

The role is due to commence February / Easter 2024 start date 

Closing date: Sunday 10th March 2024

Interviews are scheduled to take place  as soon as possible after the closing date.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive an overwhelming response. All candidates are advised to refer to the job description and person specification before making an application.

In line with our safeguarding practices we are unable to accept CV’s. Apply today.

Academies Enterprise Trust and all of our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We adopt a robust, fair and consistent recruitment process which is inline with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. This includes online checks for shortlisted candidates. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check.

Academies Enterprise Trust embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity.  Job share, part time and flexible working opportunities will be considered.  

We are a Disability Confident Employer and there is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.