Learning Support Lead for Inclusion and Support

About the University

We have one simple promise – to make a positive impact. Through our ground-breaking research, teaching excellence and commitment to sustainable living, we are changing lives for the better.

The University of Derby is a modern university with a modern outlook. Everything we do is driven by delivering excellence and opportunities for our students, our staff and our region.

We have some of the best university facilities in the UK and achieve outstanding results for our teaching and research and have been awarded Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 – making it one of the top universities in the country recognised for its outstanding student experience and student outcomes. 

Financially strong and seriously ambitious we offer our employees an inclusive culture that centres itself around staff wellbeing, where you can be confident you will receive all the help and encouragement you need to build a rewarding career with lots of opportunities to enhance your skills.

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.

Benefits

Generous annual leave entitlement of 38 days inclusive of bank holidays and concessionary days (pro rata)Local Government Pension SchemeSuite of holistic wellbeing benefits and support including family-friendly policies, generous sick pay provision and comprehensive Employee Assistance ProgrammeAccess to a variety of staff discounts at high street retailersDiscounted onsite gymCycle to Work schemeA flexible working environmentA commitment to personal and professional development

Key Contact

For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Sam Knowles, Senior Curriculum Leader via [email protected] 

enquiries regarding your application and for sponsorship eligibility, please contact the recruitment team via [email protected]

Important Information

The University is unable to sponsor the employment of international workers under the Skilled Worker route for this role; however, applications are welcome from candidates who are able to demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.

Please visit our website for more information.

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 and is therefore subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Any information you provide will be treated in confidence and only used when considering your suitability for the post.

To enable us to process your DBS check please ensure you are able to supply the documentation listed on the DBS website at interview stage.

The University of Derby is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our staff, students and children. At the University of Derby, safeguarding is everybody's concern.

Please find our Safeguarding pages including our Safeguarding Policy here.

Closing Date: 01 Feb 2026

Area: Operational Support

Salary: £32,260 to £36,251 per annum pro rata (for exceptional performers, there is scope for further progression up to £41,689 per annum, pro rata)