Head of Individual Needs - Junior School

At the heart of this position is a commitment to ensuring that every pupil receives the support and encouragement they need to flourish academically, socially and emotionally. You will work across the Junior School to identify and respond to individual learning needs, champion inclusive practice and provide expert guidance to colleagues. You will:

• Lead and develop provision for pupils with individual learning needs across the Junior School.
• Promote an inclusive culture in which every pupil is valued, supported and encouraged to fulfil their potential.
• Advise and support teachers in adapting teaching, learning and classroom practice to meet individual needs effectively.
• Oversee the identification of pupils who may require additional support and ensure that appropriate provision is put in place.
• Monitor the progress, attainment and wellbeing of pupils receiving additional support.
• Coordinate and review support plans, interventions and specialist recommendations.
• Lead, manage and develop the Junior School Learning Support Assistants.
• Work collaboratively with parents, carers and external professionals to ensure joined-up support for pupils.
• Contribute to admissions, transition planning and pastoral provision where individual needs may require additional consideration.
• Help shape the strategic development of inclusive practice and learning support across the school.
  
  We are seeking an experienced, compassionate and highly skilled professional to lead our provision for pupils with additional learning needs across the Girls' Junior School. This is an exciting opportunity to shape and develop an inclusive culture where every pupil is understood, supported and empowered to thrive.
The role combines strategic leadership with direct pupil support. Working closely with teachers, Learning Support Assistants, parents and external professionals, you will ensure that provision is effective, responsive and centred on the needs of each child. You will also lead and develop our team of Learning Support Assistants, ensuring that support is delivered in ways that promote progress, confidence and independence. This role would suit an experienced teacher or SEND professional who is passionate about inclusion, enjoys working collaboratively with others and is committed to helping every pupil reach their full potential., You will be an enthusiastic and knowledgeable educational professional with a strong understanding of individual learning needs and inclusive practice. You will be committed to achieving the best outcomes for every pupil and confident in building positive relationships with colleagues, pupils and families. You may already hold a SENCO qualification or be willing to work towards one. Above all, you will bring warmth, expertise and a collaborative approach to supporting children and those who work with them. You will have:
• Qualified Teacher Status.
• Experience of working with children in a primary or junior school setting.
• A strong understanding of SEND and inclusive educational practice.
• Experience of identifying barriers to learning and implementing effective support strategies.
• The ability to advise, influence and work collaboratively with teachers and other professionals.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Experience of working effectively with parents and carers.
• The ability to lead, support and develop colleagues.
• A commitment to high expectations, inclusion and pupil independence.
A SENCO qualification, experience of leading a SEND or learning support team and additional qualifications in Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) would be advantageous.

Habs has been awarded Independent School of the Year 2025, with Haberdashers' Elstree Schools receiving both the award for Outstanding Educational Partnerships and the overall top accolade of Independent School of the Year 2025. This national recognition reflects our long-term commitment to educational excellence, innovation and community. It is an exciting and proud moment to be joining our school. The Opportunity There are few roles in a school that have a greater impact on a pupil's confidence, progress and sense of belonging than the Head of Individual Needs.


• A competitive salary, commensurate with the candidate's experience
• The opportunity to work in a vibrant, ambitious, and supportive school community alongside exceptional colleagues who are deeply committed to excellence and to one another
• Generous private pension scheme through Aegon with substantial employer contributions
• Life assurance cover
• Access to the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), offering confidential support, guidance, and advice
• Extensive professional development and training opportunities within a culture that values growth and continuous learning
• Free lunch and refreshments during the working day
• Free onsite parking and access to the Schools' extensive coach network
• Free access to excellent sports facilities, including the gym, swimming pool, and fitness classes
• Wellbeing initiatives and programmes, including yoga, mindfulness sessions, and health checks
• Access to an online GP service, providing quick and convenient healthcare advice
• Access to Vivup, the staff benefits platform offering discounts, financial advice, and wellbeing resources