Head of ASC (Autism Support Centre Primary)

Head of ASC (Autism Support Centre Primary)

Salary: MPS/UPS + SEN Allowance

About Us

The Passmores Co-operative Learning Community (PCLC) is dedicated to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all pupils. We proudly host primary and secondary enhanced provisions for pupils with autism on behalf of Essex County Council (ECC). Our provisions are central to our commitment to inclusion; guided by an ethos of unconditional positive regard, we ensure every pupil is valued and supported to achieve their full potential

In Autumn 2026, PCLC will open a second primary Autism Support Centre at The Downs School in West Essex, in collaboration with ECC. This expansion presents an exciting opportunity to strengthen collaboration across the Trust, enabling us to share best practice, grow collective expertise, and further enhance the quality and consistency of provision for pupils with autism.

About the Role

The role is based within our established 10-place Primary Autism Support Centre at Potter Street Academy, supporting pupils aged 4-11.

We are seeking an exceptional, passionate, and experienced teacher to lead this well-established provision. This is a unique opportunity to shape a specialist setting, champion inclusive practice, and make a lasting difference to the lives of pupils with autism.

At the heart of this role is a commitment to excellent primary teaching. You will deliver high-quality, inclusive practice that secures strong academic and social progress, combining quality-first teaching with carefully planned, bespoke interventions to meet individual needs.

This is a unique opportunity to deliver a highly adapted SEND curriculum within a well-resourced specialist setting. We are looking for a skilled, inclusive and adaptable practitioner, with an understanding of developmental approaches to teaching and learning, with the ability to match provision to a wide range of developmental profiles regardless of chronological age.

The role requires strong leadership to develop and guide the ASC team, alongside excellent communication to ensure pupils can access learning and successfully integrate into mainstream classrooms.

Visits to our existing provision are warmly welcomed. To arrange a visit, and to meet with our Director of Primary Inclusion, Lucy Thomas please contact HR on hr@pclc.co.uk

Key Responsibilities

Inspire, lead and develop the ASC team, ensuring high-quality, consistent practice

Deliver and model quality-first, adaptive teaching (whole class, small group and 1:1)

Plan and deliver individualised, person-centred programmes within a broad and balanced curriculum

align the curriculum in the ASC and teaching practice with the main school, following phonics and maths schemes

Provide targeted interventions, including pre-learning and overlearning, to support academic and social progress

Work collaboratively with mainstream colleagues to support access, inclusion and integration

Build strong partnerships with parents and external professionals

Ensure Section F of EHCPs is delivered effectively; lead annual reviews and reporting

Oversee assessment and progress monitoring, including use of Neuroinclusive Education Network approaches

Provide training and professional development to staff to strengthen autism practice

Lead on safeguarding within the ASC

Work with the Local Authority on admissions, transitions and consultations, including regular attendance at the Local Authority's monthly autism panel meeting

Provide written consultation responses and tribunal witness statements when required by LA SEND Operations

What We Are Looking For

An excellent primary qualified teacher with a proven track record of strong outcomes

Strong understanding of autism and the strategies and interventions that support children with autism

Proven ability to lead and develop a team effectively

Understanding of, or willingness to develop, EYFS and developmental approaches

A commitment to promoting inclusion and diversity within the school community

Strong communication and collaboration skills to support mainstream access

Evidence of ongoing professional development (interest in, or willingness to undertake, the National Award for SEN Coordination would be welcomed)

We Offer

A well-resourced and expanding specialist provision

High-quality autism-specific training and CPD

Opportunities to contribute to a growing ASC model across the Trust

A supportive team and strong leadership backing

A role where you can make a significant impact on children’s lives

'PCLC is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced disclosure through the Disclosure Barring Service’