Adviser, Student Support Services (Starting Jan 2026) - ESF Centre

We are seeking an Adviser, Student Support Services to join the team at the ESF Centre. The role will begin in January 2026, with the possibility of an earlier start.

The Adviser – Student Support Services (Secondary) is a key member of the central team supporting the development and implementation of inclusive practices across ESF, with a specific focus on secondary education (Years 7–13).

This role provides high-level advice to Learning Diversity Managers and school leadership teams on complex cases, transitions, inclusive pathways, curriculum access, and the systems and structures that enable effective student support.

Through professional networks, collaborative projects, and targeted CPD, the Adviser plays a vital role in building system-wide capacity for inclusive education aligned with ESF’s vision and policy framework.

Main accountabilities:

The Adviser works in partnership with the Student Support Services team and acts as a point of liaison between ESF Schools and the ESF Head of Education Student Support to;

• Establish a partnership relationship with ESF Schools to ensure staff are supported in meeting children’s learning needs and that staff understand the expectations of them related to inclusion and learning diversity.
• Support schools in developing and refining the systems, structures, and processes necessary for effective student support and inclusion.
• Provide advice and support to schools on curriculum access, differentiation, and individualised planning to enhance inclusion, with a particular focus on secondary pathways, alternative curricula, and post-16 transitions.
• Oversee and enhance the Career Development Service to increase work experience opportunities for post-16 students and contribute to a broader secondary inclusion strategy.
• Lead and support effective transition planning across phases, particularly the key transitions from Y6–Y7 and post-16, ensuring continuity of provision for students with complex needs.
• Act as a panel member for the Admissions and Review Process (ARP), supporting procedures, communications, and placement decisions in collaboration with the Head of Education, Student Support.
• Support the Head of Education, Student Support with the placement of students in Learning Support and Jockey Club Sarah Roe School, and work alongside schools to enable successful transitions. 
• Support the development and implementation of strategy, policies and procedures related to learning diversity and student support from K-13 and provide advice to schools to meet ESF policy and procedural obligations. 
• Lead projects, initiatives and CPD to build capacity and enable inclusive approaches to meet the learning needs of students and to contribute to the development of inclusive school cultures and practices.
• Co-facilitate the Learning Diversity Network (LDN) across the Foundation and lead LDN working groups.
• Prepare reports, briefings and correspondence as requested by the Head of Education, Student Support and ESF SMT.
• Any other reasonable activity at the request of the Head of Education Student Support

Minimum typical education:

• A recognised teaching qualification.
• Postgraduate qualifications in inclusion, special education, or a related field are highly desirable.

Minimum typical experience:

• Significant leadership experience in secondary education (Y7–13), including roles such as SENCo or Inclusion Lead.
• A minimum of four years leading inclusion, student support, or special educational needs, with demonstrated impact at a whole-school or cross-school level.

Core professional / technical competencies required:

• Strategic planning, policy development, and system-wide alignment of inclusive education practices.
• Facilitation of professional learning, networks, and collaborative meetings to build capacity across schools.
• Expertise in inclusive and special education, including curriculum adaptation, assistive technology, and student wellbeing.
• Strong understanding of educational policy, procedures, and the effective use of data and systems to support service delivery.

Core soft / transferable competencies required:

• Builds trust and collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Leads with empathy, credibility, and strategic insight.
• Communicates effectively across a range of audiences and contexts.
• Listens actively and constructively engages with differing viewpoints.
• Confidently provides direction and professional advice based on evidence and experience.
• Manages conflict respectfully and facilitates resolution with integrity.

For enquiries, please contact Karen Ng at [email protected].

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and offers may be extended prior to the job closing date.

By applying for this position, your application may be considered for other opportunities (senior-level roles, head of department, etc.) within ESF.

ESF is an Equal Opportunities Employer

The English Schools Foundation (ESF) is fully committed to providing equal employment opportunities. ESF will not discriminate on the basis of age, race, colour, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, religion, veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, creed, citizenship or any other status protected by local laws or regulations.

Personal data provided by job applicants will be used strictly in accordance with the ESF's Personal Data Policy, a copy of which will be provided upon request.

ESF is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students in our care and expects all applicants to uphold this commitment. We adhere to rigorous recruitment practices, with all appointments contingent upon an interview, identity verification, criminal background checks (including ICPC, SCRC, and other international background checks as appropriate), assessment of social media presence, and positive references.

In accordance with the Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2025 guidelines, ESF may perform online checks for all shortlisted candidates prior to the interview.