Director of Student Support (SEND)

We are looking to recruit an exceptional Director of Student Support (SEND) to join our outstanding sixth form team, part of the Providence Learning Partnership, where unwavering support, care and guidance for our post-16 learners is at the heart of everything we do. This is an incredible opportunity to lead a dedicated specialist team in championing the holistic success and personal growth of our SEND students, empowering students to overcome barriers to learning and achieve successful transitions into meaningful adulthood and post-18 destinations.

What Makes This Role Exciting?

• Strategically Lead a Specialist Team: Oversee, coordinate and quality assure the work of a dedicated team of professionals, including the Deputy SENCo, Student Support Coordinator and Student Support Mentors.
• Champion the Success of Students with Additional Needs: Take strategic responsibility for the academic achievements, progress and retention of all students with SEND, utilising data to monitor outcomes and implement bespoke interventions at regular intervals.
• Drive Inclusive Excellence: Lead the ‘frontline’ of inclusion by providing expert guidance to teaching staff on Quality First Teaching and curriculum accessibility, ensuring every learner can settle quickly and thrive in sixth form life.
• Manage Statutory Duties: Strategically lead the implementation of the SEND Code of Practice, overseeing the development and statutory review of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and Student Profiles to ensure they are of the highest standard.
• Safeguard and Nurture: Play a vital role in supporting the safeguarding of students with additional needs, ensuring that robust protocols are followed. 
• Forge Partnerships: Build collaborative relationships with parents/carers, and a wide range of external agencies, including health and social care services, to support students in their transition to adulthood and meaningful post-18 destinations.

We are looking for someone who:

• Demonstrates exceptional planning, organisation and time management skills.
• Is able to inspire and challenge both students and colleagues to achieve excellence.
• Has the highest expectations of themselves and others, particularly regarding student outcomes and professional conduct.
• Exhibits outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven ability to collaborate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Models the values, ethos, and vision of the organisation in pursuit of excellence and equity.
• Possesses a strong understanding of the SEND Code of Practice and the statutory frameworks governing post-16 education.
• Is a passionate advocate for inclusion, committed to removing barriers to learning and ensuring that every student has the support needed to reach their fullest potential.

Why choose us?

• Be a part of an Investors in People: Platinum [Employer of the Year 2025] organisation. 
• We are a flourishing high-performing sixth form where students achieve and exceed their potential.
• Be part of a team that’s ambitious, supportive, and driven by purpose.
• Benefit from personalised CPD, leadership coaching, and genuine career progression.

Join Durham Sixth Form Centre as Director of Student Support (SEND). Lead and inspire the next generation of post-16 students in a nationally recognised, high-performing sixth form. We are located in the heart of Durham, just 20 minutes from Sunderland and 30 minutes from Newcastle city centre.

APPLICATION FORM   

The Application Form should be completed in one of two ways: 

1. Using either the GoogleForm and submitting the completed Application Form.
2. Using our Word Document and emailing it to staffvacancies@durhamsixthformcentre.org.uk.

Both options are available on our website at www.durhamsixthformcentre.org.uk/vacancies/

LETTER OF APPLICATION

The supporting Letter of Application is a separate document and should be no more than 1,000 words. It should set out the particular strengths that you would bring to the post and how you feel you meet the criteria outlined in the job description and person specification. 

Please upload the Letter of Application with the GoogleForm above or alternatively email your Letter of Application with your Word Application Form to staffvacancies@durhamsixthformcentre.org.uk. 

CLOSING DATE: 10am, Monday 2 February 2026

NB: This position is subject to being closed early. Applications received after the closing date/time will not be considered.