Introduction
The role of Head of High Needs & Learner Wellbeing is a vital position in the education sector, responsible for overseeing the provision of support for learners with additional needs. As the UK job market continues to evolve, the demand for experienced and passionate professionals in this field is on the rise. In 2025, the UK saw an increase in the number of students with special educational needs, highlighting the need for skilled professionals who can provide high-quality support and ensure that these learners thrive and achieve alongside their peers.
Somerset Skills & Learning is a leading provider of education and training in Somerset, South West England. The company is committed to providing inclusive and supportive learning environments that enable learners to reach their full potential. As a senior role within the organisation, the Head of High Needs & Learner Wellbeing will play a key strategic role in shaping the company’s approach to supporting learners with additional needs.
Job Overview
| Title | Company | Location | Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Head of High Needs & Learner Wellbeing | Somerset Skills & Learning | Somerset, South West England | £45,566 – £45,566/yr |
| Job Type | Posted Date | Remote/On-site | Visa Sponsorship Available |
| Full-time | 10 March 2026 | On-site | Unknown |
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and implementation of the company’s high-needs funding learning provision and safeguarding strategy
- Oversee the provision of support for learners with additional needs, ensuring that they receive high-quality support that enables them to thrive and achieve alongside their peers
- Play a key strategic role across the organisation, leading learning support and contributing to the development of the company’s overall strategy
- Work closely with other senior leaders to ensure that the company’s approach to supporting learners with additional needs is aligned with its overall mission and values
- Develop and maintain relationships with external partners and stakeholders, including local authorities, schools, and other education providers
- Line manage a team of learning support staff, providing guidance, support, and development opportunities to ensure that they are equipped to provide high-quality support to learners
- Contribute to the development of the company’s policies and procedures, ensuring that they are aligned with its overall strategy and values
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the company’s high-needs funding learning provision and safeguarding strategy, making recommendations for improvement as needed
Requirements & Qualifications
| Essential | Desirable |
|---|---|
| Experience of working in a similar role, with a focus on supporting learners with additional needs | Qualifications in special educational needs, such as a PGCE or diploma in SEN |
| Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire a team | Experience of working in a senior leadership role, with a focus on strategic development and planning |
| Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders | Knowledge of the education sector, including current policies and initiatives related to special educational needs |
Salary Intelligence
The salary for this role is £45,566 – £45,566/yr, which is competitive for a senior leadership role in the education sector. To put this into perspective, here is a comparison of salaries for similar roles in different locations:
| Location | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| London | £50,000 – £60,000/yr |
| Manchester | £40,000 – £50,000/yr |
| Birmingham | £38,000 – £48,000/yr |
| Leeds | £35,000 – £45,000/yr |
In terms of career progression, here is an example of a salary ladder for this role:
| Level | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Junior | £25,000 – £35,000/yr |
| Mid-level | £35,000 – £45,000/yr |
| Senior | £45,000 – £55,000/yr |
| Lead | £55,000 – £65,000/yr |
Please note that salaries can vary depending on location, experience, and other factors. Additionally, remote work may affect salary, with some companies offering lower salaries for remote workers.
Based on the salary for this role, the estimated after-tax monthly take-home pay would be approximately £2,500 – £3,000 per month. However, please note that this is an estimate and actual take-home pay may vary depending on individual circumstances.
Visa & Work Permit Information
This role may be eligible for a UK Skilled Worker Visa, depending on the specific requirements of the role and the qualifications and experience of the applicant. The company may be a UK visa sponsor, but this would need to be confirmed with the company directly.
The typical SOC code category for this role would be 3421 – Teaching and educational professionals. The minimum salary threshold for a Skilled Worker Visa is £26,200/yr or £10.75/hr, which is lower than the salary for this role.
After 5 years of working in the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa, it may be possible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which would allow the individual to live and work in the UK without restrictions.
About the Company
Somerset Skills & Learning is a leading provider of education and training in Somerset, South West England. The company has a strong reputation for providing high-quality learning experiences that enable learners to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.
The company’s culture is focused on inclusivity, diversity, and respect, with a commitment to providing a supportive and welcoming environment for all learners. The company’s values include a focus on excellence, innovation, and community, with a commitment to making a positive impact on the local community.
According to Glassdoor, the company has an estimated rating of 4.5 out of 5, based on reviews from current and former employees. The company is a medium-sized organisation, with a growth trajectory that is focused on expanding its provision of education and training in the local area.
Location & Lifestyle
The cost of living in Somerset is relatively low compared to other parts of the UK, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment being around £600-£800 per month. The area has a range of commute options, including buses and trains, with nearby residential areas such as Taunton and Yeovil being popular with professionals.
The area has a range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities, with nearby attractions such as the Somerset Levels and the Quantock Hills being popular with outdoor enthusiasts.
Skills & Learning Path
- Leadership and management skills
- Coursera – Leadership and Management course
- YouTube – Leadership and Management tutorials
- Gov.uk – Leadership and Management guidance
- Special educational needs knowledge and experience
- Coursera – Special Educational Needs course
- YouTube – Special Educational Needs tutorials
- Gov.uk – Special Educational Needs guidance
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Coursera – Communication and Interpersonal Skills course
- YouTube – Communication and Interpersonal Skills tutorials
- Gov.uk – Communication and Interpersonal Skills guidance
- Certified Teacher or Trainer (CTT)
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
- Diploma in Special Educational Needs (SEN)
How to Apply
- Review the job description and requirements to ensure that you are a strong candidate for the role
- Update your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and qualifications
- Research the company and its values to demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the role
- Practice your interview skills, using resources such as Coursera and YouTube to prepare for common interview questions
- Submit your application, including your CV and cover letter, through the company’s website or a recruitment agency
- Follow up with the company or recruitment agency to confirm receipt of your application and to express your interest in the role
Interview Preparation
- What experience do you have of working with learners with additional needs?
- Example answer: I have worked with learners with a range of additional needs, including autism and dyslexia. I have experience of developing and implementing individualised learning plans, and of working with other professionals to provide a holistic approach to support.
- How would you approach the development of a high-needs funding learning provision and safeguarding strategy?
- Example answer: I would approach this by working closely with other senior leaders and stakeholders to develop a comprehensive strategy that meets the needs of all learners. I would ensure that the strategy is aligned with the company’s overall mission and values, and that it is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changing needs and priorities.
- Can you give an example of a time when you had to communicate complex information to a group of stakeholders?
- Example answer: In my previous role, I had to communicate the results of a learner feedback survey to a group of senior leaders and stakeholders. I used a range of communication strategies, including presentations and reports, to ensure that the information was clearly and effectively communicated.
- How would you handle a difficult conversation with a member of your team?
- Example answer: I would approach this by listening carefully to the individual’s concerns and responding in a calm and professional manner. I would work with the individual to find a solution that meets their needs and the needs of the company, and I would ensure that the conversation is followed up with a clear plan of action.
- Can you describe your experience of working in a senior leadership role?
- Example answer: I have experience of working in a senior leadership role, where I was responsible for leading a team of staff and contributing to the development of the company’s overall strategy. I have experience of managing budgets and resources, and of working with other senior leaders to drive business growth and improvement.
- What are your salary expectations for this role?
- Example answer: Based on my research and experience, I would expect a salary in the range of £45,000 – £55,000 per year. However, I am open to negotiation and would consider other benefits and perks as part of the overall package.
UK Job Market Insights
The demand for Head of High Needs & Learner Wellbeing roles is growing in the UK, driven by an increase in the number of learners with additional needs. The best time to apply for these roles is typically in the spring and summer months, when schools and education providers are recruiting for the new academic year.
According to recent data, around 20% of similar roles are offering remote work options, which is lower than the average for other industries. However, this is likely to increase in the future as more education providers adopt flexible working practices.
Other roles that you may be interested in applying for include:
- SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator)
- Learning Support Manager
- Head of Inclusion
FAQ
Q: Is this job open for freshers?
A: No, this role requires experience of working in a similar position, with a focus on supporting learners with additional needs.
Q: Does the company sponsor UK visa?
A: The company may be a UK visa sponsor, but this would need to be confirmed with the company directly.
Q: What is the typical notice period for this role?
A: The typical notice period for this role is 3-6 months, depending on the company’s policies and procedures.
Q: Is remote work available for this role?
A: No, this role is based on-site at the company’s premises in Somerset.
Q: What is the monthly take-home pay after tax for this role?
A: The estimated monthly take-home pay after tax for this role is approximately £2,500 – £3,000 per month, depending on individual circumstances.
Q: What skills do I need to learn for this role?
A: You will need to have strong leadership and management skills, as well as experience of working with learners with additional needs. You will also need to have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders.
Q: How competitive is this role?
A: This role is likely to be highly competitive, with a large number of applicants with relevant experience and qualifications. You will need to demonstrate your skills and experience clearly in your application and at interview.
Q: What are the growth prospects for this role?
A: The growth prospects for this role are good, with opportunities for career progression and professional development within the company. You will also have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of learners with additional needs, which can be highly rewarding.
Disclaimer
Please note that the information provided in this article is for general guidance only and is not intended to be a comprehensive or definitive guide to the role or the company. You should always check the company’s website and other reliable sources for the most up-to-date and accurate information. Additionally, salaries and benefits may vary depending on individual circumstances, and you should always check the company’s policies and procedures before applying for a role.