SENCO

Experience & Knowledge (Essential)

• Has experience working with children aged 2–5, particularly those with a range of SEND needs
• Understands early identification and intervention
• Has working knowledge of statutory SEND processes, including:
  • Early Support Plans
  • EHCPs
• Has experience making timely referrals to external services
• Demonstrates strong understanding of:
  • Child development
  • EYFS framework
  • Inclusive practice
• Has experience working with:
  • Parents/carers
  • Multi-professional teams
• Knows effective strategies for inclusion and quality first teaching

Skills & Abilities (Essential)

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  Lead and coordinate SEND provision across more than one setting
  


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  Implement and manage the graduated approach (universal, targeted, specialist)
  


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  Assess, monitor, and track progress of children with SEND
  


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  Support and coach staff with practical strategies and adaptations
  


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  Communicate effectively with:
  
  
  
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    Staff
    
  
  
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    Parents
    
  
  
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    External professionals
    
  
  
  
  


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  Demonstrate strong organisation, time management, and flexibility
  

Desirable Experience & Skills

Stronger candidates may also:

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  Hold the National SENCo Award
  


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  Have training in:
  
  
  
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    Early intervention
    
  
  
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    Speech and language
    
  
  
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    Inclusion strategies
    
  
  
  
  


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  Have experience:
  
  
  
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    Identifying complex SEND early
    
  
  
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    Leading CPD or coaching staff
    
  
  
  
  


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  Be able to:
  
  
  
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    Analyse data to inform provision
    
  
  
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    Contribute to whole-setting development and policy
    
  
  
  
  

Personal Qualities

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  Warm, approachable and responsive
  


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  Collaborative across teams and settings
  


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  Reflective and proactive
  


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  Resilient and adaptable
  


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  High expectations of professionalism and practice
  


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  Deep commitment to improving outcomes for children with SEND and families

We are looking for a SENCo who can move beyond coordination into system leadership — someone who can build adult capability, drive early intervention, and ensure consistently high-quality inclusive practice across multiple settings.