Trust SENCO

Waterton Academy Trust; Wakefield, Barnsley; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Waterton Academy Trust is seeking an experienced SEND leader to shape inclusive practices across 16 primary schools and 5 specialist settings. The role provides strategic leadership for SEND, working with Trust leaders, SENCOs, families and external agencies to secure high-quality support for every child.

The successful candidate will drive improvement, share expertise across the Trust and champion inclusion in all aspects of school life, ensuring alignment with current SEND legislation and best

Qualifications

• Extensive experience leading SEND provision across multiple schools.
• Strong knowledge of SEND legislation and policy.
• Proven track record of improving outcomes for children with additional needs.
• Ability to influence, train and develop SEND professionals.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic SEND direction across the Trust.
• Collaborate with school leaders, SENCOs and families.
• Evaluate provision, identify development areas and secure resources.
• Build partnerships with external agencies.

Skills

Strategic SEND leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Policy & compliance

Staff development

Education

Master's degree in Education or SEND

QTS or equivalent teaching qualification

Tools

SENCO software

Job description

Waterton Academy Trust is a primary-only multi academy trust consisting of 16 primary schools and 5 specialist settings across Wakefield and Barnsley. Our shared ambition is to secure the very best outcomes for every child, ensuring they are fully prepared for future success and able to thrive within inclusive, supportive learning environments.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and highly skilled SEND leader to join our Trust and play a pivotal role in shaping and developing high-quality inclusive practice across our schools. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), working in partnership with school leaders, SENCOs, staff, families and external agencies to ensure that all children receive the support they need to achieve their full potential.

We are seeking an individual with a strong understanding of current SEND legislation, policy and best practice, together with a proven track record of driving improvement and achieving positive outcomes for children and young people with additional needs. The successful candidate will have the ability to influence and inspire others, develop the expertise of SEND professionals across the Trust, and lead initiatives that promote consistency, inclusion and excellence in provision.

The role requires a collaborative leader who is passionate about championing the needs of children with SEND and committed to ensuring that inclusive practice is embedded within every aspect of school life. You will work closely with Trust leaders and school-based SENCOs to evaluate provision, identify areas for development, support effective use of resources, and strengthen partnerships with families and external professionals.

At Waterton Academy Trust, we are proud of our culture of collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement. You will be joining a dedicated team of professionals who are committed to ensuring that every child belongs, succeeds and flourishes. We offer a supportive and forward-thinking environment where leaders are empowered to make a meaningful difference to the lives of children and their families.

If you share our commitment to inclusion, have a passion for SEND leadership and are excited by the opportunity to influence practice across a growing Trust, we would be delighted to hear from you.

We look forward to receiving your application.

Warm Regards, Laura Thresh, Head of SEND and Inclusion