SEND Head of Area (Communication & Interaction)

What skills and experience we're looking for

We are looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic Head of Communication and Interaction to join a talented and highly committed SEND team during a period of significant change at the school – moving the school from delivering good educational provision to something that is genuinely world class.

The school serves students from all backgrounds, including those with complex needs. The school has a significantly higher than average number of students with EHCPs along with many others who are on the SEND register. We are looking for an experienced SEND colleague to lead all aspects of communication and interaction provision within the school. The post holder will also engage in student-facing work as part of their role and will also lead on managing the SEND department’s procurement of alternative learning provisions (ALP) based on the finances available.

This role is a part of a job share (3 days per week) and is a maternity cover contract offered on a fixed term basis for 12 months, or until the return of the postholder, whichever is sooner.

This role requires someone who has a positive disposition, who has attention to detail, who is a rule followerand who is a team player. The role will suit someone who has a good understanding of SEND and a sharp eye for evaluating provisions for cost-effectiveness.

What the school offers its staff

• Continuing Professional and Leadership development
• Employee assistance programme, offering counselling, support and advice on a wide array of areas
• Discounted gym membership, Cycle-to-work scheme, Eyesight test vouchers
• Flexible working fully supported and enhanced family friendly policies
• All new staff are automatically enrolled in the Teacher’s Pension or LGPS Avon Pension Fund.

Further details about the role

We are committed to creating an inclusive working environment. If you are excited about this role and can demonstrate many but not all of the requirements on the job description and/or person specification, we would encourage you to apply as you may just be the person we are looking for.

• Please complete our application form by Midnight on Sunday 8th November 2026
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview on Wednesday 25th November 2026 at Bristol Cathedral Choir School
• All candidates will be advised of the outcome of their application following the closing date.

Commitment to safeguarding

Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff, volunteers and trustees to share this commitment. Our recruitment process follows the keeping children safe in education guidance. Offers of employment may be subject to the following checks (where relevant): childcare disqualification Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) medical online and social media prohibition from teaching right to work satisfactory references suitability to work with children You must tell us about any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.