Head of Department – Supported Learning

Location: East London

Contract: Full Time | Interim

Salary: Competitive Day Rate

Lead Outstanding SEND Provision. Inspire Teams. Transform Lives.

Are you an experienced Further Education leader with a passion for inclusive education and supporting learners with additional needs?

We're seeking an inspirational Head of Department – Supported Learning to lead a thriving Supported Learning provision within a large and diverse Further Education college in East London.

This is an exciting interim opportunity to shape strategic direction, drive quality improvement and lead a dedicated team committed to delivering exceptional outcomes for learners with SEND, High Needs and EHCPs.

The Opportunity

As Head of Department, you'll provide both strategic and operational leadership across Supported Learning, ensuring learners receive an outstanding educational experience that prepares them for further study, employment and independent living.

Working closely with senior leaders, curriculum managers and external stakeholders, you'll lead curriculum development, quality assurance, learner outcomes and staff performance while embedding an inclusive culture across the department.

This role is ideal for an experienced Head of Department, Curriculum Manager, Supported Learning Manager, ALS Manager or SEND leader looking to make an immediate impact within a successful Further Education environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for the Supported Learning department.
• Lead curriculum planning, development and continuous improvement.
• Drive outstanding teaching, learning and assessment across the department.
• Lead, motivate and develop Curriculum Managers, Team Leaders and teaching and support staff.
• Ensure outstanding provision for learners with SEND, High Needs and EHCPs.
• Oversee EHCP implementation, Annual Reviews and learner-centred planning.
• Monitor learner progress, achievement, attendance and positive destinations using data to drive performance.
• Lead departmental quality assurance, self-assessment and inspection readiness.
• Manage departmental budgets, staffing and resource planning.
• Build effective relationships with employers, local authorities, parents, carers and external agencies.
• Promote safeguarding, equality, diversity and an inclusive learning culture throughout the department.

About You

We're looking for someone who has:

• Significant leadership experience within Further Education, Supported Learning or Additional Learning Support.
• Experience managing curriculum teams and leading quality improvement.
• A recognised teaching qualification (PGCE, Cert Ed, QTS, QTLS or equivalent).
• Strong knowledge of SEND legislation, the SEND Code of Practice and EHCP processes.
• Experience managing budgets, staffing and operational performance.
• Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• A proven track record of improving learner outcomes and developing high-performing teams.
• A passion for inclusive education and helping learners achieve their full potential.

Why Apply?

This is an opportunity to lead one of the most rewarding areas within Further Education.

You'll influence strategy, shape curriculum provision and lead a committed team dedicated to supporting learners with additional needs to succeed both academically and personally.

In return, you'll join a collaborative college environment where innovation, inclusion and continuous improvement are at the heart of everything they do.

Whether you're an experienced Head of Department or an ambitious Curriculum Manager or Supported Learning Manager ready to step into a broader leadership role, this is an excellent opportunity to make a lasting impact.