SEND Lead Practitioner (14 -16 Skills Programme)

About the Role

Leeds City College are seeking an experienced SEND professional to lead on the placement and support of students with Educational Health Care Plans, SEND and needs primarily in the 14-16 Skills Programme, and if required, the 14+ Academies. You will be an operational main point of contact with parents and curriculum staff and contribute towards positive outcomes for disadvantaged and vulnerable students. In the future, there may be scope to manage a team of other professionals.

The 14–16 Skills Programme is a safe and inclusive environment that is accepting of everyone. The design and ethos of the provision allow young people to flourish with smaller class sizes, a reduced curriculum, and focus on vocational based learning. The 14–16 Skills Programme provides opportunities to young people to maximise their potential, raise aspirations, and embrace their individuality. Relationship building is at the heart of its ethos, and a high staff to student ratio allows learners to thrive and develop holistically.

What You Will Do

• Develop knowledge and understanding of SEND legislation and how this impacts on the local offer, school/SILC/College, and employer contexts.
• Support with the annual review process of EHCPs by chairing meetings and completing paperwork that meets the Local Authority standards and within statutory timelines.
• Complete the college’s quality assurance training programme for conducting annual reviews of EHCPs - ‘The Licence To Review’.
• Ensure delivery of support in line with assessed needs and funding for all High Needs Learners.
• Support with evidence for funding claims for 14–16 provision.

About You

We are seeking an experienced, compassionate, and highly organised SEND professional who is passionate about improving outcomes for vulnerable and disadvantaged young people.

The successful individual will:

• Hold a Level 5 teaching qualification or relevant SEND / Learning Support related qualification or willingness to work towards.
• English and Mathematics at Level 2 or above and a willingness to improve in one or both disciplines to level 3 or above.
• Have strong knowledge of SEND legislation, EHCP processes, and inclusive practice, alongside the ability to build positive, trusting relationships with learners, families, curriculum staff and external agencies.
• Be confident chairing annual reviews, managing statutory processes and ensuring support is delivered in line with assessed needs and funding requirements.
• Share the values and ethos of the 14–16 Skills Programme: placing relationships at the centre of practice, championing individuality, and creating a safe, nurturing environment where young people can thrive both academically and personally.