SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator)

iMap Centre Limited; Chester; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading educational organization in Chester is seeking a qualified SENCO to manage Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) across two independent schools. This part-time role involves strategic leadership, compliance with statutory requirements, and hands-on support for high-quality teaching. Candidates should possess Qualified Teacher Status and a strong background in SEND, demonstrating exceptional organizational and communication skills. Benefits include various schemes supporting staff health and development.

Benefits

Bike to Work Scheme

Tech Scheme

Paid Sick Pay

Long Service Reward Scheme

Support to Drive Scheme

Development Pathways

Comprehensive Training Package

Christmas Saver Scheme

Enhanced Employee Assistance Package

Qualifications

• Proven experience as SENCO or in a senior SEND role.
• In‑depth understanding of SEND Code of Practice and statutory requirements.
• Ability to work independently across two sites.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage SEND provision across two schools.
• Coordinate and review Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
• Provide guidance and training on SEND best practices.

Skills

Strong organisational and time-management skills

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Ability to lead and influence staff effectively

Education

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

National Award for SEN Coordination

Job description

The SENCO will lead and manage the provision for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) across two small independent SEN schools. This is a stand‑alone role requiring strategic oversight, compliance with statutory requirements, and hands‑on support to ensure high‑quality teaching and learning for all pupils. This is a part‑time role, term‑time only, over 3 days a week. About the Role

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement the schools' SEND policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with the SEND Code of Practice and relevant legislation.
• Contribute to whole‑school improvement planning with a focus on inclusion.

Pupil Support

• Oversee identification, assessment, and monitoring of pupils with SEND.
• Coordinate and review Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
• Ensure appropriate interventions and support strategies are in place.

Staff Development

• Provide guidance and training to teaching and support staff on SEND best practice.
• Support teachers in differentiating curriculum and managing individual needs.

Liaison and Communication

• Act as a point of contact for parents/carers regarding SEND provision.
• Liaise with external agencies, therapists, and local authorities.
• Prepare and present reports for annual reviews and inspections.

Compliance and Record Keeping

• Maintain accurate records of SEND provision and pupil progress.
• Ensure safeguarding and equality duties are upheld.

Working Pattern

• 3 days per week (flexible scheduling across both schools).
• Occasional attendance at meetings outside normal hours may be required.

Qualifications

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
• National Award for SEN Coordination (or willingness to work towards it).

Experience

• Proven experience as SENCO or in a senior SEND role.
• Experience working with pupils with complex needs in specialist or mainstream settings.

Knowledge

• In‑depth understanding of SEND Code of Practice and statutory requirements.
• Knowledge of EHCP processes and multi‑agency working.

Skills

• Strong organisational and time‑management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lead and influence staff effectively.

Personal Attributes

• Empathy, resilience, and commitment to inclusive education.
• Ability to work independently across two sites.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience in independent or specialist SEN schools.
• Additional qualifications in SEND or therapeutic approaches.
• Familiarity with assistive technology and adaptive learning strategies.

Benefits

• Bike to Work Scheme
• Tech Scheme
• Paid Sick Pay
• Long Service Reward Scheme
• Support to Drive Scheme
• Development Pathways
• Comprehensive Training Package
• Christmas Saver Scheme
• Enhanced Employee Assistance Package