Head of Additional Learning Needs (ALN), Inclusion and Wellbeing

Head of Additional Learning Needs (ALN), Inclusion and Wellbeing

£82,607 - £90,651 per annum

Llandrindod Wells

Closing date - 15/11/2026

Join us in shaping the future of education and inclusion in Powys

We are looking for a strong, visible and inspirational leader to join us at Powys County Council as our Head of Additional Learning Needs (ALN), Inclusion and Wellbeing. This is a unique opportunity to lead services that have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of children, young people, families and schools across Powys.

As Head of ALN, Inclusion and Wellbeing, you will provide strategic leadership across a diverse portfolio, ensuring every learner has access to the support, opportunities and inclusive environments they need to thrive. Working closely with schools, elected members, partners and stakeholders, you will help shape the future of education and inclusion across the county.

Your portfolio will include:

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ALN and Inclusion, including Administration

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Local Authority Individual Development Plans (IDPs)

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Children Looked After Virtual School

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Family Liaison

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Wellbeing and Whole School Approach

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Children Missing Education

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Educational Psychology Service

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Support for schools' complaints and statutory processes

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Attendance and Education Welfare

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Behaviour and Exclusions

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Youth Services

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Safeguarding

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Elective Home Education

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Specialist Teaching Services

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Tyfu

About you

You will be an accomplished and credible leader with significant experience within education, inclusion, ALN or related services. You will have a strong track record of delivering improved outcomes, leading change and working successfully within complex and demanding environments.

We are looking for someone who:

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Provides visible, values-driven leadership that inspires confidence and trust

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Is passionate about inclusion, wellbeing and improving outcomes for all learners

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Thinks strategically and can balance immediate operational demands with long-term priorities

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Builds strong relationships with schools, partners, regulators, elected members and communities

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Leads and develops high-performing teams that are focused on continuous improvement

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Demonstrates excellent judgement, resilience and accountability

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Has the credibility and influence to represent Powys locally, regionally and nationally

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Is committed to delivering excellent services for children, young people and families.

About the role

Reporting to the Director of Education, you will be a key member of the Education Senior Leadership Team and will contribute to corporate leadership across the Council. You will lead major strategic developments in ALN, inclusion and wellbeing, ensuring services are effective, financially sustainable and focused on improving outcomes for all learners in Powys.

You will work collaboratively with schools, governing bodies, health partners, regional consortia and national organisations to deliver the Council's priorities and statutory responsibilities. You will also oversee performance, governance, quality assurance and workforce development across your portfolio, ensuring services meet the highest standards and respond effectively to the needs of learners and families.

Agile working

This is a flexible worker position and the Council offers the opportunity to work in an agile way, including home working. However, there will be an expectation to work from County Hall, Llandrindod Wells and other Council offices for a minimum of three days per week, with additional attendance as required by business needs.

Why Powys?

Powys is a truly exceptional place to live, work and lead. As the largest geographical county in Wales, it combines breathtaking landscapes, vibrant market towns and close-knit communities with a rich cultural heritage. Home to internationally renowned events such as the Royal Welsh Show, Hay Festival and Green Man Festival, Powys offers an outstanding quality of life alongside the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to communities across the county.

Whether you are drawn by the stunning natural environment, strong sense of community or the opportunity to influence the future of education and inclusion, Powys offers a rewarding career in one of the most distinctive places in the UK.

In return, we offer:

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Competitive salary

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Generous annual leave entitlement

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Local Government Pension Scheme

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Professional development opportunities

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Relocation support package

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Flexible and agile working arrangements

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Employee wellbeing support

Be part of our future

This is an exciting opportunity to lead services that are fundamental to improving lives for children and young people across Powys.

If you are an exceptional leader with the vision, passion and determination to champion inclusion, wellbeing and educational excellence, we would love to hear from you