SEND Pathway Lead

Specialist SEND Group; Salford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialized educational institution in Salford is seeking a dynamic 16+ Pathway Lead to oversee and enhance its dedicated site for 16–25-year-olds with special educational needs. This role involves curriculum development, staff management, and driving community involvement. The successful candidate should have significant experience in SEND education and strong leadership skills to make a meaningful impact on young adults' futures. A passion for supporting students to gain independence and life skills is essential.

Qualifications

• Experience working within SEND education, ideally with young adults aged 16–25.
• Strong leadership or middle-management experience.
• Excellent understanding of ASD, ADHD, Down Syndrome, and a wide range of SEND needs.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the 16+ provision, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and aspirational environment.
• Line-manage teachers and teaching assistants, providing coaching and support.
• Develop and refine a curriculum focused on independence, life skills, employability, and community engagement.

Skills

Leadership

Curriculum development

Behaviour management

Relationship building

Job description

A specialist SEND school is seeking a dynamic and experienced16+ Pathway Leadto oversee and further develop its dedicated 16–25 site. This provision supports 14 learners aged 16–25 with a range of special educational needs, including ASD, ADHD, Down Syndrome, and complex learning needs. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on young adults’ preparation for adulthood, independence, and life beyond school.

About the Role

As the 16+ Pathway Lead, you will take a key leadership role in shaping the curriculum, supporting staff, and ensuring high-quality outcomes for all learners. You will oversee day-to-day operations of the site, manage teaching and support staff, and drive the development of enterprise, work experience, and community-based learning opportunities. You will also be responsible for identifying and coordinating training opportunities for both staff and learners. Although this is not a teaching role, you may deliver sessions when needed to maintain continuity and support the team.

The successful candidate will also be expected to be an active and engaged member of school life, contributing positively to the wider school community.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the 16+ provision, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and aspirational environment
• Line-manage teachers and teaching assistants, providing coaching, support, and direction
• Develop and refine a curriculum focused on independence, life skills, employability, and community engagement
• Seek and coordinate training opportunities for staff and learners
• Build partnerships with local businesses, organisations, and community groups to create meaningful enterprise and work experience opportunities
• Oversee personalised learning pathways and ensure all learners’ EHCP outcomes are met
• Support with behaviour management, pastoral care, and the daily running of the site
• Deliver teaching or intervention sessions only when required
• Maintain strong relationships with parents, carers, and external professionals
• Play an active role in whole-school life, contributing to school culture, events, and community ethos
• Contribute to school improvement priorities and strategic planning for the 16+ site

About You

• Experience working within SEND education, ideally with young adults aged 16–25
• Strong leadership or middle-management experience (or readiness to step into leadership)
• Excellent understanding of ASD, ADHD, Down Syndrome, and a wide range of SEND needs
• Confident in behaviour management and supporting complex needs
• Skilled in curriculum development, planning, and personalised learning pathways
• Proactive in identifying training needs and professional development opportunities
• Ability to build strong professional relationships with staff, learners, families, and external partners
• Passionate about preparing young adults for meaningful futures in the community, workplace, or further education
• Organised, approachable, and able to lead with empathy and clarity

Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £40,000.00-£60,000.00 per year