Job Description:

We are seeking an experienced and proactive SENCO Lead to establish and lead the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) function within our new independent alternative provision school.

This is a key role with both strategic and operational responsibility for SEND provision, EHCP management, inclusion and learner outcomes. The successful candidate will play a central role in developing systems, embedding best practice and supporting high-quality provision for young people with additional needs.

Alongside SENCO responsibilities, the postholder will contribute to teaching through targeted intervention and small group delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & SEND Provision

• Lead and develop SEND provision across the school
• Establish and embed effective SEND systems, policies and processes
• Promote inclusive practice and support whole-school improvement
• Contribute to school readiness for inspection and compliance

EHCP & Multi-Agency Working

• Manage and review Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)
• Ensure compliance with the SEND Code of Practice
• Liaise effectively with local authorities, families and external professionals
• Coordinate assessments, reviews and multi-agency meetings

Teaching, Learning & Inclusion

• Support staff with differentiation, reasonable adjustments and SEMH approaches
• Deliver small group and targeted teaching sessions
• Promote positive learner engagement, wellbeing and outcomes

Quality & Compliance

• Maintain accurate SEND records and reporting processes
• Monitor provision and evaluate impact on learner outcomes
• Support policy development and quality assurance activity

Person Specification

Essential

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent
• National Award for SEN Coordination (NASENCO), or willingness to complete
• Previous SENCO experience
• Strong knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and EHCP processes
• Experience supporting learners with SEMH and additional needs
• Strong communication and organisational skills

Desirable

• Experience within alternative provision, PRU or specialist settings
• Experience developing SEND systems within a new provision
• Team Teach or equivalent training

Benefits

• £33,000–£36,000 full salary (not pro rata)
• 52-week contract with protected time outside term for EHCP work and development
• Monday to Friday, 9:00am–5:00pm
• Training and CPD opportunities
• Support to complete NASENCO qualification where required
• Opportunity to shape and influence provision from the beginning

Safeguarding & Pre-Employment Checks

The successful candidate will be subject to pre-employment checks including an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.