Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO)
Full time, Permanent
Salary: Teacher pay and SEN allowance
Job Description
Main Purpose of the Role
*Lead and manage the provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), ensuring that all children with additional needs make progress and achieve their potential
*Work with staff, families and external agencies to promote the inclusion and well-being of all pupils with SEND
*Ensure the school’s statutory responsibilities for SEND are met and that provision complies with the SEND Code of Practice
Key Responsibilities
*Oversee the day-to-day operation of the SEND policy
*Coordinate and monitor the provision for children with SEND, including those with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)
*Liaise with and advise colleagues on the graduated response to providing SEND support
*Collaborate with the SEND Provision Leader to ensure cohesive and high-impact SEND provision across the school
*Work in partnership with the Strategic Lead for SEND to ensure a consistent and ambitious approach to inclusion across the school.
*Maintain SEND records and ensure up-to-date documentation for all pupils on the SEND register
*Work closely with parents/carers of children with SEND, ensuring strong home-school links
*Act as a key point of contact with external agencies and professionals
*Lead, support and deliver professional development for staff to build capacity and understanding of SEND
*Contribute to the strategic development of SEND policy and provision within the school
*Monitor and track the progress and attainment of pupils with SEND, using data to inform provision and report to senior leaders and governors
*Promote a nurturing, inclusive school ethos in line with the schools Rights Respecting and Nurturing value
Person Specification
Qualifications and training
*Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
*National Award for SEN Coordination (or a willingness to complete within three years of appointment, if not already held)
*Evidence of ongoing professional development relevant to SEND
Experience
*Successful teaching experience within a primary setting
*Experience of working with pupils with a range of SEND
*Experience of working collaboratively with staff, families and external agencies
Skills and knowledge
*Sound knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and relevant legislation
*Understanding of effective teaching and learning strategies for pupils with SEND
*Ability to analyse and interpret pupil data to drive improvement
*Excellent communication and organisational skills
*Competence in using IT systems and maintaining accurate records
*Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection procedures
Personal qualities
*High expectations for all pupils and a belief in inclusive education
*Commitment to upholding and promoting the ethos and values
*Ability to work effectively under pressure and prioritise tasks
*Integrity, honesty and discretion in dealing with confidential information
*Commitment to equality, diversity and the safeguarding of children