Special Education Needs Coordinator

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 480,000 - 750,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Medical aid

Annual leave

PD opportunities

Inclusive environment

Educational resources

Pension contributors

Employee assistance

Team collaboration

Impact on students

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting a Durban educational institution in recruiting a dedicated Special Education Needs Coordinator (SENCO). The role oversees support for students with diverse learning needs, develops IEPs, and advocates for each child within the school community.

The SENCO will collaborate with teachers, parents, and external specialists, coordinate assessments, monitor progress, and lead staff training on inclusive practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Special Education, Psychology, or related field.
• Master’s degree in Special Education preferred.
• Professional qualification or certification in SEN Coordination.
• Minimum of 4 years direct experience with students with special educational needs.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills.
• Knowledge of South African educational policies and legislative frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement IEPs for students with special educational needs.
• Coordinate with teachers to integrate IEP goals into classroom activities.
• Conduct regular assessments and progress monitoring of students with special needs.
• Liaise with parents and guardians to provide updates, support, and guidance.
• Collaborate with external specialists, therapists, and agencies to provide holistic support.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of student assessments, IEPs, and progress reports.
• Organize and lead meetings for IEP development, review, and implementation.
• Provide training and support to teaching staff on inclusive practices.
• Advocate for the needs of students within the school and with external bodies.
• Ensure compliance with legislation and policies pertaining to special education.

Skills

IEP development

Stakeholder collaboration

Communication

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Education or related

Master’s in Special Education preferred

SEN Coordination certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent educational institution in Durban , is actively searching for a dedicated and compassionate Special Education Needs Coordinator (SENCO). This critical role involves overseeing the provision of support for students with diverse learning needs, ensuring they receive the tailored education required to thrive. You will work closely with students, parents, teachers, and external agencies to develop and implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and to advocate for the best interests of each child. The SENCO will play a key role in fostering an inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and supported. This is an on-site position, requiring a strong presence within the school community in KwaZulu-Natal . We are looking for an individual with a deep understanding of special educational needs and a passion for inclusive education. Your expertise will be vital in ensuring that our school meets the highest standards of support for all learners, contributing significantly to their academic and personal development.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for students with special educational needs.
• Coordinate with teachers to ensure IEP goals are integrated into classroom activities and learning experiences.
• Conduct regular assessments and progress monitoring of students with special needs.
• Liaise with parents and guardians to provide updates, support, and guidance regarding their child's education.
• Collaborate with external specialists, therapists, and agencies to provide holistic support to students.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of student assessments, IEPs, and progress reports.
• Organize and lead meetings for IEP development, review, and implementation.
• Provide training and support to teaching staff on inclusive practices and strategies for supporting students with diverse needs.
• Advocate for the needs of students with special educational needs within the school community and to external bodies.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation and policies pertaining to special education.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Education, Special Education, Psychology, or a related field.
• A Master's degree in Special Education is highly preferred.
• Relevant professional qualification or certification in Special Education Needs Coordination.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience working directly with students with special educational needs.
• Strong understanding of various learning disabilities, developmental disorders, and behavioral challenges.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing IEPs and other support plans.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work effectively with students, parents, educators, and external professionals.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for record-keeping and reporting.
• Knowledge of relevant South African educational policies and legislative frameworks.
• A proactive approach to identifying and addressing student needs within an inclusive school setting.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package based on qualifications and experience.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Generous annual leave and school holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and further training in special education.
• Supportive and inclusive work environment within a well-resourced school.
• Access to educational resources and assistive technologies.
• Pension fund contributions.
• Employee assistance program for personal well-being.
• Collaborative team environment with dedicated colleagues.
• Direct impact on student well-being and academic achievement.