Post-16 Lead – ASC & SEMH Specialist Provision

Location: Newham
Contract: Full-time
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
Start Date: January 2027

Could you shape what adulthood looks like for young people with SEND?

Parker Smith Inclusion is working with a specialist education setting in East London to recruit an inspiring Post-16 Lead who believes that preparing young people for adulthood is about far more than qualifications.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a Post-16 provision supporting neurodiverse young people with Autism (ASC) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Many of the students have experienced disrupted educational journeys, so they need a leader who can see their potential, build meaningful pathways into adulthood and create opportunities that genuinely change lives.

The setting takes a therapeutic, relationship-led approach, combining high-quality education with personalised support, small class sizes and a strong focus on confidence, independence and life skills.

The Role

As Post-16 Lead, you will take ownership of a provision designed to help young people prepare for employment, further education and independent living.

You will lead an engaging, real-world curriculum that develops practical skills alongside academic progress, ensuring every learner's Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) outcomes remain at the heart of their journey.

Alongside your leadership responsibilities, you will also teach and tutor a group of students, becoming a consistent and trusted adult in their daily lives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop an engaging Post-16 curriculum with a strong emphasis on enterprise, vocational learning and preparing for adulthood.
• Ensure Maths and English are delivered through meaningful, real-life learning opportunities.
• Create pathways into employment, apprenticeships, supported internships, further education and community opportunities.
• Build strong relationships with employers, colleges and external partners to expand opportunities for students.
• Work collaboratively with SENCOs, therapists, pastoral teams and Teaching Assistants to deliver outstanding support.
• Lead annual reviews, transition planning and pathway planning, ensuring EHCP outcomes remain central to provision.
• Monitor student progress using person-centred approaches, including RARPA.
• Manage departmental resources and budgets effectively.
• Line manage members of the Post-16 team, supporting their professional development and maintaining high standards across the provision.
• Provide consistent pastoral support and help young people develop confidence, resilience and independence.

Who We're Looking For

We're looking for a passionate and experienced SEND leader who understands that success looks different for every young person.

You'll bring:

• QTS or QTLS, alongside a relevant Post-16 teaching qualification or a willingness to work towards one.
• Significant experience working with neurodiverse young people, particularly those with ASC and SEMH.
• A proven track record of delivering outstanding teaching within PSHE, Enterprise, Business, Vocational Education or related subjects.
• Experience supporting Functional Skills Maths and English would be advantageous.
• A strong understanding of the SEND Code of Practice, EHCPs and Preparing for Adulthood outcomes.
• Knowledge of Post-16 pathways, further education and employment opportunities for young people with SEND.
• Experience leading or developing teams within an educational setting.
• A calm, therapeutic and de-escalation-focused approach that prioritises relationships and emotional regulation.

Most importantly, we're looking for someone who believes every young person deserves ambitious opportunities, meaningful experiences and adults who never lose sight of what they're capable of achieving.

Why This Role?

This is an opportunity to lead a provision where you'll see the direct impact of your work every day—from helping a student secure their first work placement to building the confidence they need to take their next step into adulthood.

If you're an experienced SEND teacher or leader who wants to shape a truly meaningful Post-16 provision, we'd love to hear from you.

Why Parker Smith Inclusion?

At Parker Smith Inclusion, we specialise exclusively in SEND education across London. We're an ethical, transparent consultancy that takes the time to understand your experience, values and career ambitions, matching you with schools where you can make a lasting difference.

Apply today to speak with Elise or Faye 0203 01 4848 Parker Smith Inclusion about this opportunity.