Assistant Principal - Inclusion/SENCO

Leigh Academy Blackheath; Blackheath; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Leigh Academy Blackheath is searching for an Assistant Principal - Inclusion/SENCO to lead the SEN policy and support students with learning difficulties from September 2026. The ideal candidate is an experienced school leader, able to communicate a clear vision and develop staff while working closely with the community.

The role requires a can-do ethos and a commitment to high standards in teaching for SEND. You'll have the opportunity to significantly impact pupils' educational experience by ensuring they receive the support needed to reach their full potential.

Qualifications

• Track record of success at secondary level leadership.
• Experience with International Baccalaureate Diploma is a plus.
• Ability to communicate a clear vision for the school.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operation of the SEN policy.
• Work closely with staff, parents/carers, and other agencies.
• Implement a high quality intervention programme.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Motivational skills

Understanding of SEN needs

Intervention programme implementation

Job description

From September 2026, we are seeking to appoint an experienced and qualified Assistant Principal - Inclusion/SENCO who, with the support of the Principal, Academy Leadership Team and the SEN department will take responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the SEN policy, SEN information report and provision made by the school for pupils with learning difficulties or disabilities. The successful candidate will also work closely with staff, parents/carers and other agencies.

We understand that each student has different learning needs and experiences, but they must always have the same opportunities. Leigh Academy Blackheath’s goal is to always act quickly to identify undiagnosed needs and always support students with SEND needs. Our digital curriculum, which includes Chromebooks for students and an incredible team of teaching assistants, has removed barriers for children, laying the groundwork for this successful approach. We make every effort to ensure students with SEND thrive and grow in confidence alongside the rest of our community.

A flexible approach with a can-do ethos is necessary, as is drive, grit and boundless enthusiasm, as nearly everyday we experience something new for the first time. It is essential that our SENCO has a positive outlook, is supportive of others and openly shares best practice, modelling this constantly to the growing staff body. Our SENCO will need to embrace a forward thinking approach to raising standards in teaching for SEND, implementing a high quality intervention programme and working with SE London and Kent teams to ensure we are doing the absolute best for our most vulnerable students at all times.

The role of SENCO can be highly rewarding, as you will have the opportunity to directly contribute to pupils receiving the support they need to achieve their full potential.

We wish to hear from you if you are committed to changing our education world and are:

• an enthusiastic, energetic and ambitious school leader with a track record of success at secondary level;
• a motivational and inspirational leader with high expectations of staff;
• confident and able to communicate a clear vision for the school;
• able to develop children to reach their full potential regardless of background or circumstance;
• approachable and keen to work with staff across the Trust to ensure wide success;
• able to establish and develop excellent relationships with the community and other stakeholders;
• have recent experience of the International Baccalaureate Diploma and Careers related programmes, although this is not essential.

To support your application, we recommend viewing the Job Pack by clicking here which outlines the full role responsibilities and person specification. This will guide you in preparing a strong application and understanding what we’re looking for.