Inclusion Leader (SENDCO and DSL)

Teaching Vacancies; Thame; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A primary school in Thame is seeking an experienced Inclusion Leader to lead their Inclusion Team and enhance SEND provision. The role requires a SENDCO qualification or a commitment to obtain one. This non-teaching leadership position offers an opportunity to positively impact children's lives and work with a supportive team. Interested candidates should apply by submitting the application form to the provided email before 20th October 2025.

Benefits

Access to professional development

Supportive and dedicated team

Non-teaching leadership role

Qualifications

• Wealth of experience and deep knowledge of SEND provision and inclusive teaching strategies.
• Proven track record of leading SEND practice with measurable outcomes.
• Ability to lead and manage a team.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Inclusion Team.
• Inspire and support colleagues in delivering high-quality provision.
• Demonstrate energy and dynamism to make a difference.

Skills

Experience with SEND provision

Leadership skills

Teamwork

Resilience

Communication skills

Education

SENDCO qualification or commitment to obtain

Job description

We are seeking a passionate, experienced, and knowledgeable leader to lead and develop our Inclusion Team and make a positive impact on the lives of children in our school.

Our Inclusion Leader is part of our senior leadership team, fulfilling the roles of SENDCO and Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). They will lead and manage our Inclusion Team, which includes a Family Links Worker and Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA).

We are a vibrant, inclusive, and high-performing primary school where every child is nurtured, challenged, and celebrated. We believe in THE HAMPDEN WAY and use this to guide our thinking and behaviour. We are KIND. We try our BEST. We are a TEAM.

Our school needs an exemplary Inclusion Leader who:

• Has a wealth of experience and deep knowledge of SEND provision, legislation, and inclusive teaching strategies.
• Has a proven track record of leading, shaping, and innovating SEND practice with measurable outcomes for pupils and their families.
• Is qualified as a SENDCO or committed to achieving the qualification within 18 months.
• Can inspire, challenge, and support colleagues in delivering high-quality provision.
• Is able to demonstrate energy and dynamism and keen to make a difference.
• Is a team player who listens to and values the opinions of others, while bringing their own ideas and initiative.
• Is a resilient leader who can positively manage difficult and emotional conversations and communications with our families.
• Is an experienced DSL or is ready and experienced enough to take on this role in our school.
• Has experience of leading programmes of early help and support for vulnerable families.
• Can effectively lead our Inclusion Team comprising of a Family Links Worker and Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA).
• Has experience of effective multi-agency working.
• Has a forensic eye for detail to ensure robust safeguarding policies, practices, and procedures are in place and being operated effectively.

What the school offers its staff:

• To be an integral member of our SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM.
• To dedicate 100% of your time to your leadership role as this is a non-teaching position.
• To work with amazing, creative, fun, and high-achieving children.
• To work with a very supportive and dedicated team.
• To work in a community with team/family spirit in abundance.
• Access to professional development and training.
• To work with a very supportive governing body, parents, and children.

Further details about the role: Visits to the school are encouraged and warmly welcomed. To arrange a visit, please email [e-mail] or call the school office on [phone].

If you would like to apply, please complete and return the attached application form to [e-mail].

Closing date for applications: Monday 20th October 2025. Interviews to be held: w/c 20th October 2025.

Commitment to safeguarding: John Hampden Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, and other pre-employment checks.