About Education Partnership North East (EPNE)
At EPNE our ‘purpose’ is our north star. It is what we expect of ourselves every single day and why we ask all staff to keep our purpose front and centre in all that they do.
Our Purpose is to “unlock potential, create opportunities, and transform lives through outstanding education, skills and training”. Rooted in our transformative power, it communicates our work in tackling inequalities, removing barriers, and improving the life chances of the people and communities we serve.
We nurture our very special culture. Our unifying values framework “The actions we take the choices we make – The actions I take the choices I make” represent the character of our college group, and are grounded in the belief that every action, by every individual, contributes to our success. This why we encourage empowered individuals, personal accountability and growth.
Building on our remarkable past, creativity and pioneering spirit, we are moving forward with courage into the future, improving what we do, remaining action-orientated, and innovating to make an exceptional difference for the world we live in. Shaping futures for a better tomorrow, join our changemaking community now.
Please see the following link to our 2024 Ofsted Report, in which EPNE was graded as being Outstanding across all areas – Ofsted-Report-Outstanding
Our Journey & Values
As an employer, we prioritize cultivating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, where our staff can thrive and grow. We recognize that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are deeply committed to investing in their professional development and overall wellbeing.
About the Candidate
We are looking for an inspiring and strategic leader who is passionate about creating equitable opportunities for all learners. You will bring empathy, integrity, and a deep commitment to inclusion, ensuring every learner — regardless of background or need — can thrive.
As an EPNE Changemaker, you will champion our values of ambition, collaboration, inclusion, and excellence. You will empower teams to remove barriers, drive innovation in inclusive practice, and create a culture where diversity is celebrated, and every learner feels seen, supported, and valued.
Your leadership will be compassionate yet decisive, combining high expectations with a strong moral purpose to deliver the very best outcomes for our learners with additional needs.
About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity to lead and shape the strategic direction of SEND and Inclusion across one of the largest further education partnerships in the North East.
The role involves driving excellence and consistency across campuses, ensuring EPNE remains at the forefront of inclusive practice, compliance, and learner experience. You will work collaboratively with curriculum, support, and quality leaders to develop inclusive pedagogy, enhance staff confidence, and embed the principles of accessibility and belonging in everything we do.
You’ll have the opportunity to influence at the highest level of leadership, develop and implement innovative strategies, and work with national networks and external partners to strengthen EPNE’s reputation as a leader in inclusive education.
This position offers significant scope for professional growth — working alongside an ambitious senior leadership team committed to personal and organisational development.
Role Responsibilities
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Lead the strategic development and delivery of SEND and Inclusion across EPNE, ensuring compliance and excellence in provision.
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Oversee the quality and impact of additional learning support and high needs provision across all campuses.
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Drive inclusive teaching, learning, and assessment practices in collaboration with curriculum leaders.
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Lead on relationships with local authorities, health and social care partners, and regional networks.
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Develop and implement professional development initiatives that strengthen inclusive practice across the workforce.
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Monitor, evaluate, and report on the effectiveness of SEND and inclusion strategies, using data to inform improvement.
Qualifications
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Degree-level qualification (or equivalent experience).
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Relevant leadership or management qualification
Essential Skills & Experience
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Significant experience in leading SEND and inclusion in an educational setting, ideally within FE or a large multi-site organisation.
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In-depth understanding of the SEND Code of Practice, Equality Act 2010, and associated statutory frameworks.
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Proven record of improving outcomes for learners with additional needs.
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Strong strategic, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
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Excellent communication and relationship management skills across internal and external stakeholders.
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Ability to lead change, inspire others, and embed an inclusive culture.
Desirable Skills & Experience – (Optional)
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Experience working within Further Education or post-16 SEND provision.
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Teaching qualification and experience of leading curriculum-based inclusion initiatives.
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Experience collaborating with local authorities, social care, and health partners.
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Familiarity with assistive technology and digital accessibility tools.
What’s in it for you?
Join EPNE and you’ll be part of a culture that prioritises your development and wellbeing, which is why all employees receive an extensive benefits package.
- Enjoy a generous holiday allowance ranging between 35-48 days per year, plus public holidays – (Excluding Term Time Only contracts)
- Generous family leave and flexible working options (dependent on role)
- LGPS or Teacher Pensions Scheme, (dependent on role 15.7% – 28.68%)
- Access to myLifestyle benefits platform providing retail discounts and more.
- We offer dental, eye care & health cash plans.
- Extensive wellbeing support through a digital Wellbeing Hub that offers a broad range of support for physical, mental, and financial wellbeing.
- Free parking on most campuses.
- Free Gym access available at Bede Campus
Due to the nature of this post, you will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure Check.
We believe in equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
We are committed to PREVENT and safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.
Please contact Peter Monaghan – Peter.Monaghan@Educationpartnershipne.ac.uk should you wish to have an informal chat about the role.
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