Director of Student Support

”At the heart of our mission is the belief that every learner’s journey matters.”

Durham Sixth Form Centre is recruiting a Director of Student Support (SEND) to join our outstanding community. Joining the Providence Learning Partnership means leading a mission of care, guidance, and empowerment. In this vital role, you will champion the success of our SEND students, helping them overcome challenges and celebrate achievements as they move toward meaningful adulthood. If you are a dedicated professional committed to transforming lives through inclusive education, we want to meet you

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.

How to Apply

Next Steps: We look forward to receiving your application. Please ensure you submit both the Application Form and a Letter of Application (no more than 1,000 words). You can find the relevant downloads and the submission link at the top of this page.

Contact: Should you wish to discuss the role or arrange a visit, contact Lee Bone, Vice Principal, lee.bone@durhamsixthformcentre.org.uk

Durham Sixth Form Centre is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.