Head of SEU

Head of SEU (Specialist Education Unit)
Area: Ipswich, Suffolk
Start: September 2025
Salary: £51,027.00 - £56,316.00 Annually (FTE)
Contract: Fulltime, Permanent

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and dedicated Head of SEU (Specialist Education Unit) to join a highly reputable and growing primary school in Ipswich, Suffolk. This is a permanent position, starting in September 2025, for a passionate leader committed to providing outstanding support for pupils with special educational needs.

The Role

The successful candidate will be responsible for leading and managing the Specialist Education Unit, ensuring that pupils receive high-quality, tailored support that enables them to reach their full potential. This role requires a strategic approach to inclusion, strong leadership skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with staff, parents, and external professionals.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Specialist Education Unit, ensuring high standards of teaching, learning, and pupil support.
• Develop and implement effective strategies to support pupils with special educational needs, promoting inclusion and accessibility across the school.
• Work closely with senior leaders, teachers, and support staff to create a nurturing and stimulating learning environment.
• Oversee the development and implementation of EHCPs (Education, Health, and Care Plans) and ensure compliance with SEND policies and regulations.
• Engage with parents, carers, and external agencies to provide a collaborative approach to pupil development.
• Provide training and guidance to staff, ensuring best practices in SEND education are embedded across the unit.
• Monitor and evaluate the progress of pupils, implementing interventions where necessary to enhance outcomes.

Person Specification

The ideal candidate will be:

• A qualified teacher (QTS essential) with extensive experience in SEND education.
• An experienced leader with a strong understanding of SEND policies, EHCP processes, and inclusive education practices.
• Passionate about improving the lives of children with special educational needs, with a child-centred approach to learning.
• Skilled in managing and developing a team of staff to ensure high-quality provision within the SEU.
• A strong communicator with the ability to build positive relationships with pupils, parents, colleagues, and external professionals.
• Able to demonstrate excellent organisational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work under pressure.

Why Join This School?

• A supportive and forward-thinking leadership team committed to professional development.
• A thriving and inclusive school environment that prioritises pupil well-being and achievement.
• Excellent facilities and resources to support SEND provision.
• A strong, collaborative team ethos, with opportunities for progression and professional growth.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced and ambitious professional looking to make a significant impact in a well-respected primary school.

For more information or to apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
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