Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO)

Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO)

Location: Wakefield (WF7)
Setting: Specialist SEN School | Ages 11–19
Start Date: After October half-term
Working Days: Wednesdays and Thursdays (essential)

About the School

We are working with a dynamic, multi-site specialist school supporting young people aged 11–19 with a wide range of complex learning needs. Every student has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), and the school is committed to securing the very best outcomes for every learner.

The school’s vision is to equip students with the skills, confidence and resilience they need to thrive both in education and in adulthood. Through high-quality teaching, inclusive practice and individualised support, the school strives to ensure every young person has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and passionate (SENCO) to join the school’s dedicated leadership team.

This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled professional to provide strategic leadership for SEND provision, champion inclusive practice and drive continuous improvement across the school community.

Working closely with senior leaders, teaching staff, families and external agencies, you will ensure that students receive the appropriate support and provision to meet their individual needs and achieve positive outcomes.

Alongside your SENCO responsibilities, you will act as the school’s Designated Teacher for Children in Care (CIC), taking responsibility for developing Personal Education Plans (PEPs) and attending PEP meetings to ensure that looked-after children receive appropriate educational support.

Please note: A start date after October half-term can be accommodated. However, availability on Wednesdays and Thursdays is essential and non-negotiable, as these are the school’s key days for EHCP-related commitments.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of SEND provision across the school.
• Monitor, evaluate and improve the effectiveness of interventions and support programmes.
• Oversee the EHCP process, ensuring statutory requirements and deadlines are met.
• Work collaboratively with staff, families and external professionals to coordinate appropriate support for students.
• Promote and embed high-quality inclusive practice across the school.
• Ensure compliance with current SEND legislation, policies and statutory guidance.
• Support the effective allocation and deployment of resources to maximise student outcomes.
• Lead and contribute to staff training and professional development, building confidence and expertise in SEND.
• Act as the Designated Teacher for Children in Care, coordinating Personal Education Plans and attending PEP meetings.
• Champion the educational progress, wellbeing and personal development of every student.

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who:

• Holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
• Holds the NPQ for SENCO or NASENCO qualification obtained before September 2024.
• Has substantial experience supporting children and young people with SEND, ideally within a specialist setting.
• Has a strong understanding of current SEND legislation, statutory guidance and best practice.
• Has a thorough knowledge of the EHCP process and associated requirements.
• Can demonstrate a proven track record of improving outcomes for pupils with additional needs.
• Has excellent leadership, communication and partnership-working skills.
• Can inspire and support colleagues to deliver outstanding inclusive practice.
• Is passionate about ensuring every child feels valued, included and supported to succeed.
• Holds, or is willing to undertake, Designated Teacher training for Children in Care.

Why Apply?

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced SENCO to make a meaningful difference within a specialist school, helping shape provision and improve outcomes for young people with complex learning needs.

You will play a pivotal role in developing inclusive practice, supporting staff and ensuring students receive the high-quality education and individualised support they deserve.

Interested in finding out more?

If you have the relevant qualifications and experience, and can commit to working Wednesdays and Thursdays, we would love to hear from you. Please get in touch to discuss the role further.