Assistant Principal – Learner Services and Inclusion

About the role

The Assistant Principal – Learner Services and Inclusion will lead inclusive education practices across student‑facing services at East Durham College. Reporting to the Vice Principal Curriculum and Performance, you will create a welcoming environment for disadvantaged, vulnerable and high‑needs learners while also acting as the Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee enrolment, student support, high‑needs pathways, progression coaching and the college counselling service.
• Develop and communicate a college‑wide inclusion strategy, identifying trends, strengths and risks.
• Collaborate with senior management to ensure policies and procedures are inclusive from design to implementation.
• Monitor, evaluate and report on inclusion performance, providing data‑driven insights to the College Leadership Group.
• Ensure compliance with statutory requirements for SEND students, manage high‑needs funding claims and documentation.
• Set KPIs for managers, monitor performance and drive continuous improvement.
• Contribute to the college Self‑Assessment Report and Quality Improvement processes.

Required profile

• Proven experience in senior leadership within further or higher education settings.
• Deep understanding of inclusive education, SEND legislation and safeguarding responsibilities.
• Strong analytical and reporting skills with the ability to translate data into actionable plans.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder‑engagement abilities.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive salary of £71,589 per annum.
• Full‑time role (37 hours per week) on the Peterlee and Houghall campuses.
• Opportunity to shape inclusive practice across a large college.
• Professional development and leadership support within a collaborative environment.