Head of Learning Support

Job Specification: Head of Learning Support

Purpose of the Role:

The Head of Learning Support is responsible for leading and managing the Learning Support Department, ensuring that students with diverse learning needs are supported to achieve their full potential. This role requires strong leadership, a passion for inclusive education, and an ability to collaborate effectively with teaching staff, parents, and external agencies. The Head of Learning Support will oversee the development and implementation of support strategies, individual learning plans, and the delivery of high-quality support services across the school.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership and Management:

• Lead and manage the Learning Support team, providing guidance, professional development, and performance management.
• Develop and implement a strategic vision for the Learning Support Department in alignment with the school’s goals and values.
• Ensure effective collaboration with other school departments, particularly teaching staff, to create an inclusive learning environment.
• Act as the primary point of contact for learning support matters, liaising with senior leadership, teachers, and parents.

Provision of Support:

• Develop and implement individualized education plans (IEPs) for students requiring additional support, ensuring these are regularly reviewed and updated.
• Oversee the delivery of targeted interventions for students with learning difficulties, ensuring that the support is tailored to individual needs and progress is regularly assessed.
• Coordinate support for students with special educational needs (SEN) and those identified as requiring additional assistance, including those with mild to moderate learning disabilities, EAL (English as an Additional Language), and social-emotional challenges.

Professional Development:

• Lead the development of inclusive teaching strategies, promoting best practices for differentiated instruction across the school.
• Provide training and professional development opportunities for teaching staff, empowering them to support students with a range of learning needs.
• Stay current with developments in special education and inclusion, and share relevant research, strategies, and resources with staff.

Collaboration with Parents and External Agencies:

• Build strong, trusting relationships with parents, providing regular updates on the progress and needs of students.
• Work closely with external professionals, such as educational psychologists, speech therapists, and occupational therapists, to ensure a holistic approach to support.
• Act as the liaison between the school and external agencies involved in the provision of specialist services.

Monitoring and Reporting:

• Monitor and assess the effectiveness of learning support interventions and strategies, using data to inform decisions and improvements.
• Regularly report on the progress and outcomes of students with additional learning needs to senior leadership and other relevant stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with school policies, local regulations, and best practice guidelines related to learning support and inclusion.

Administrative Duties:

• Manage the department’s budget, ensuring efficient use of resources and materials to support the learning needs of students.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records for all students receiving learning support services.
• Contribute to the development of school-wide policies related to inclusion, learning support, and student welfare.

Qualifications and Experience:

Educational Qualifications:

• A relevant degree in Education, Special Educational Needs, or a related field. A postgraduate qualification in Special Education or Learning Support is desirable.
• Teaching qualification (PGCE or equivalent) and QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) preferred.

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in an educational setting, including significant experience in supporting students with additional learning needs.
• Proven experience in a leadership or management role within a learning support or special education context.
• Experience in developing and implementing IEPs and working with external agencies.
• Familiarity with a variety of educational frameworks (e.g., International Baccalaureate, IGCSE) and their approach to learning support.

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong leadership and organisational skills, with the ability to inspire and lead a team of professionals.
• In-depth knowledge of a range of learning difficulties and disabilities, along with strategies for support and intervention.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with students, parents, colleagues, and external professionals.
• Ability to analyse student data and use it to drive decision-making and improvements in provision.
• A commitment to promoting inclusive education and creating an environment where all students can thrive.
• High level of proficiency with educational technology and learning support tools.

Personal Attributes:

• Empathetic and patient, with a passion for helping students succeed.
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
• Collaborative and team-oriented with a positive, flexible attitude.
• A commitment to continuous professional development.

Application Process:

Interested applicants are invited to submit the TES form, or a detailed CV, including a cover letter addressing the key responsibilities and qualifications for the role, and the contact details of at least two referees. One must be your current or most recent Head/Principal.

Kampala International School Uganda is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All successful candidates will undergo an enhanced background check.