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, the PCLC will open a second primary Autism Support Centre 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 new 10-place Primary Autism Support Centre at the Downs Primary School, supporting pupils aged 4–11.

We are seeking an exceptional, passionate, and experienced practitioner to develop and lead the new provision at the Downs Primary School. 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 practitioner 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’