Learning Support Lead for Inclusion and Support
| Posting date: | 14 January 2026 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £32,260 to £36,251 per year, pro rata |
| Additional salary information: | (for exceptional performers, there is scope for further progression up to £41,689 per annum, pro rata) |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 01 February 2026 |
| Location: | Buxton, Derbyshire |
| Remote working: | On-site only |
| Company: | University of Derby |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 0230-25 |
Summary
About the College/Department
University of Derby Buxton is a vibrant and unique campus set in the heart of the Peak District, combining a rich history with a forward-looking approach to education. Based in the iconic Devonshire Dome, the Buxton campus is home to specialist programmes such as hospitality, culinary arts, events, tourism, and hair and beauty.
The campus is designed to provide students with hands-on, real-world learning experiences, supported by industry-standard facilities and strong links to local, national, and international employers. With its blend of practical training, academic expertise, and professional partnerships, Buxton offers an environment where students can develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in dynamic and competitive industries.
Set within the stunning natural landscape of Derbyshire, the campus also offers an inspiring backdrop for study and personal growth. At Buxton, students are encouraged to explore, innovate, and thrive, making it an exceptional place to learn and build a successful future.
University of Derby Buxton is rated ‘Good’ by OFSTED in all inspection areas, including teaching, learning & assessment, outcomes for learners, personal development, behaviour & welfare; and has a team of dedicated staff who take pride in supporting learners towards their study and career goals. This is a fantastic opportunity to join our team on our journey to becoming an outstanding provider.
About the Role
This role requires a passion for inclusion and advocacy in supporting learners with Special educational needs/disabilities to achieve meaningful employment. We are seeking a dedicated Learning Support Lead to join our team at the University of Derby – Buxton campus.
In this exciting position, you will have line-management responsibilities by leading a team of Job Coaches who provide systematic instruction in workplace settings. Close collaboration with employers will be essential to secure high-quality, supportive work placements, ensuring learners develop the required skills and confidence for sustainable paid employment.
Additionally, you will manage Access to Work funding, ensuring that learners receive appropriate support and that placements remain financially sustainable. Safeguarding all learners is paramount in this vital role.
The role requires flexibility, resilience under pressure, and the ability to work outside normal hours as needed, plus the openness to ongoing professional development through CPD and progression within FE inclusion roles.
This is a part time vacancy - 32 hours per week
About You
The role requires a Level 4 qualification in SEND (or equivalent), Level 2 Maths/English (or commitment to achieve), and proven leadership within inclusive education, with experience in supporting learners of SEND.
The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to inclusion and advocating for learners with SEND to access meaningful, sustainable employment. You should have demonstrable experience in leading teams, supporting both young people and adults with diverse disabilities and a proven ability to identify learning needs, design and deliver individual learning plans, and monitor progress using college systems. Key skills include excellent organisational and communication abilities, proactive problem-solving, attention to detail, and a strong customer-focused approach, with safeguarding knowledge for children and vulnerable adults.
Key Contact
For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Sam Knowles, Senior Curriculum Leader via s.knowles@blc.ac.uk
enquiries regarding your application and for sponsorship eligibility, please contact the recruitment team via recruitment@derby.ac.uk
University of Derby Buxton is a vibrant and unique campus set in the heart of the Peak District, combining a rich history with a forward-looking approach to education. Based in the iconic Devonshire Dome, the Buxton campus is home to specialist programmes such as hospitality, culinary arts, events, tourism, and hair and beauty.
The campus is designed to provide students with hands-on, real-world learning experiences, supported by industry-standard facilities and strong links to local, national, and international employers. With its blend of practical training, academic expertise, and professional partnerships, Buxton offers an environment where students can develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in dynamic and competitive industries.
Set within the stunning natural landscape of Derbyshire, the campus also offers an inspiring backdrop for study and personal growth. At Buxton, students are encouraged to explore, innovate, and thrive, making it an exceptional place to learn and build a successful future.
University of Derby Buxton is rated ‘Good’ by OFSTED in all inspection areas, including teaching, learning & assessment, outcomes for learners, personal development, behaviour & welfare; and has a team of dedicated staff who take pride in supporting learners towards their study and career goals. This is a fantastic opportunity to join our team on our journey to becoming an outstanding provider.
About the Role
This role requires a passion for inclusion and advocacy in supporting learners with Special educational needs/disabilities to achieve meaningful employment. We are seeking a dedicated Learning Support Lead to join our team at the University of Derby – Buxton campus.
In this exciting position, you will have line-management responsibilities by leading a team of Job Coaches who provide systematic instruction in workplace settings. Close collaboration with employers will be essential to secure high-quality, supportive work placements, ensuring learners develop the required skills and confidence for sustainable paid employment.
Additionally, you will manage Access to Work funding, ensuring that learners receive appropriate support and that placements remain financially sustainable. Safeguarding all learners is paramount in this vital role.
The role requires flexibility, resilience under pressure, and the ability to work outside normal hours as needed, plus the openness to ongoing professional development through CPD and progression within FE inclusion roles.
This is a part time vacancy - 32 hours per week
About You
The role requires a Level 4 qualification in SEND (or equivalent), Level 2 Maths/English (or commitment to achieve), and proven leadership within inclusive education, with experience in supporting learners of SEND.
The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to inclusion and advocating for learners with SEND to access meaningful, sustainable employment. You should have demonstrable experience in leading teams, supporting both young people and adults with diverse disabilities and a proven ability to identify learning needs, design and deliver individual learning plans, and monitor progress using college systems. Key skills include excellent organisational and communication abilities, proactive problem-solving, attention to detail, and a strong customer-focused approach, with safeguarding knowledge for children and vulnerable adults.
Key Contact
For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Sam Knowles, Senior Curriculum Leader via s.knowles@blc.ac.uk
enquiries regarding your application and for sponsorship eligibility, please contact the recruitment team via recruitment@derby.ac.uk