Deputy Head of Student Services - Victoria School dependent

Shaftesbury Victoria School, part of the disability charity Shaftesbury, is recruiting a deputy head of student services to work alongside the head and lead pastoral provision in either the upper or lower school. The post centres on wellbeing, inclusion and family support for pupils with significant physical and learning needs, including autism and PMLD. It also carries deputy designated safeguarding lead responsibility for a student cohort.

Candidates need pastoral, SEND, safeguarding or multi-agency experience, and an enhanced DBS check is required.

• Lead pastoral provision across the upper or lower school with the head of student services
• Act as deputy designated safeguarding lead for a designated student cohort
• Coordinate wellbeing, counselling, ELSA and family support services
• Support high standards of safeguarding, attendance, health, welfare and compliance
• Build positive, trusting relationships with families and carers
• Champion student voice, inclusion, self-advocacy and positive behaviour support
• Work with parents, local authorities and external agencies
• Support delivery of pastoral, emotional wellbeing and family support services
• Promote inclusive classroom practice and equitable access to learning
• Contribute to leadership priorities and continuous improvement
• Support non-verbal and neurodivergent learners to express their views and aspirations
• Embed the school's commitment to inclusion and belonging across school life

• Experience in a pastoral, SEND, safeguarding, education or multi-agency support role

• Strong understanding of the needs of children and young people with physical disabilities and complex needs
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Collaborative working and partnership-building with families and professionals
• Strong organisational skills, emotional intelligence and proactive problem-solving
• Commitment to safeguarding and student wellbeing

• Enhanced DBS check and relevant safeguarding checks

• Experience supporting students with autism spectrum condition (ASC)

• Ongoing professional development and training
• Opportunities for career progression
• Leadership team committed to staff wellbeing and development