Head of Inclusion Base (SEMH)

About the Role:

As Head of the Inclusion Base, you will provide strategic leadership and day‑to‑day operational oversight of our SEMH provision within a mainstream primary school. You will shape and deliver a therapeutic, nurture‑based model of education that supports emotional regulation, positive identity, engagement in learning and – where appropriate – planned reintegration into mainstream classes.

You will work closely with senior leaders, teachers, support staff, families and external professionals to ensure that SEMH provision at West Hill is graduated, aspirational and fully integrated within our whole‑school inclusion strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the vision, development and refinement of a relational, trauma‑informed SEMH base
• Deliver a structured SEMH curriculum integrating nurture, emotional regulation, life skills, therapy‑informed practice and personalised learning
• Ensure behaviour support is relational rather than punitive, recognising behaviour as communication
• Oversee SEMH‑specific assessment and review processes, including Boxall Profile and strength‑based monitoring
• Lead SEND processes for pupils in the provision, including EHCP consultations, annual reviews and multi‑agency work
• Design and implement graduated integration and reintegration pathways
• Recruit, develop and support a skilled SEMH staff team through reflective practice and high‑quality CPD
• Build strong partnerships with families and external agencies
• Take strategic responsibility for safeguarding and wellbeing within the inclusion base

We are looking for a leader who:

• Has substantial experience working with pupils with SEMH needs in school or specialist settings
• Demonstrates a deep understanding of trauma‑informed, attachment‑aware and nurture‑based practice
• Has proven ability to lead emotionally demanding provision while promoting staff wellbeing
• Has strong knowledge of the National Curriculum, SEND processes and inclusive teaching and learning
• Is confident working with safeguarding frameworks and multi‑agency professionals
• Is reflective, resilient and committed to inclusive, strengths‑based practice

Desirable qualities include:

• Experience establishing or leading SEMH provision
• National SENCo Qualification
• Specialist training or qualifications in SEMH, SEND, mental health or inclusion leadership