Inclusion & Special Needs Co-Ordinator SEND

senploy; Leigh on Sea; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

An early years nursery located in Leigh on Sea is seeking a dedicated Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) to join their compassionate team. This full-time position involves identifying and supporting children with special educational needs, implementing Individual Support Plans, and ensuring compliance with the SEND Code of Practice. The ideal candidate will hold a Level 3 qualification in Early Years Education, have experience in early years settings, and a passion for inclusion. The nursery offers a supportive atmosphere along with excellent pay and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Staff Reward Package

Employee Assistance Programme

Generous Pension Scheme

Uniform provided

Qualifications

• At least 2 years’ experience in an early years setting.
• Strong knowledge of the EYFS and SEND Code of Practice.
• Willingness to complete Level 3 SENCO qualification if not already obtained.

Responsibilities

• Identify and support children with special educational needs and/or disabilities.
• Create and implement Individual Support Plans.
• Work closely with families and external agencies.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Organisational skills

Record-keeping skills

Compassionate approach

Education

Level 3 qualification in Early Years Education and Childcare

Level 3 SENCO qualification

Paediatric First Aid Certificate

Job description

Inclusion & Special Needs Co-Ordinator SEND - Blenheim

Special Education Needs Co‑ordinator (SENCO) - Blenheim Early Years – Leigh on Sea.

Location: Blenheim Early Years – Leigh on Sea
Salary: Level 6 Scale point 13‑20 (£29,064‑£32,597 FTE)
Contract Type: Permanent, Full‑time 37 hrs per week
Start Date: As soon as possible

Are you a passionate early years practitioner with a heart for inclusion?

We are looking for a dedicated and experienced Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) to join our warm and supportive nursery team. At Blenheim Early Years we are committed to providing an inclusive, nurturing environment where every child can thrive – and you’ll play a key role in making this happen.

Responsibilities

• Identify and support children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND)
• Lead on creating and implementing Individual Support Plans (ISPs)
• Work closely with staff, families and external agencies to ensure each child receives the right support
• Promote inclusive practices across the setting
• Ensure compliance with the SEND Code of Practice and support staff development through training and guidance

Requirements

• A Level 3 qualification (or above) in Early Years Education and Childcare
• A Level 3 SENCO qualification (or willingness to complete one)
• At least 2 years’ experience in an early years setting
• Paediatric First Aid Certificate
• Strong knowledge of the EYFS and SEND Code of Practice
• Excellent communication, organisational and record‑keeping skills
• A warm, compassionate approach and a genuine passion for supporting children with SEND

Desirable (but not essential)

• Experience with EHCP processes
• Training in Makaton, PECS or other SEND‑specific tools

Why Work for Us?

• A supportive and inclusive working environment
• Excellent rates of pay
• Staff Reward Package, Employee Assistance Programme, Generous Pension Scheme, uniform provided
• Well‑resourced indoor and outdoor learning environments with access to wider school facilities
• Opportunities for professional development and training
• A chance to make a real difference in the lives of children and families

Additional Details

• Level 6 Scale points 13‑20 (£29,064‑£32,597 FTE)
• 37 hours across 5 days Monday‑Friday
• Shifts between 7am and 6pm within operating hours
• Permanent contract
• 48 weeks per year paid 52 weeks
• Please see job description and person spec attached for further details

Contact Details

Blenheim Early Years, School Way, Leigh‑on‑Sea, Essex, SS9 4HX

Safeguarding Statement

Learning in Harmony Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We follow safer recruitment practice and the successful applicant will need a satisfactory enhanced DBS certificate and supporting references.

By embracing diversity, we believe we can tap into the unique perspectives and talents of our employees, creating a more innovative and creative workforce that can better meet the needs of our pupils.

Closing date: 30th January 2026
Interview date: tbc