Special Education Needs Coordinator (SENCO)

Placements24; Richards Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 550,000 - 850,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Professional development opportunities

Supportive school environment

Job summary

Placements24, on behalf of a reputable independent school in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a highly qualified Special Education Needs Coordinator (SENCO) to oversee support for students with SEN and develop IEPs.

The role blends on-site collaboration with administrative duties, requiring leadership, strong communication with parents and staff, and expertise in SEN legislation, assessments, and intervention strategies to foster an inclusive learning environment.

Qualifications

• Experience with SEN legislation and policies in SA.
• Experience conducting educational assessments and developing IEPs.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and advocacy skills.
• Strong leadership and organizational abilities.
• Experience in hybrid or flexible work environment.
• Proficiency with educational software and record-keeping systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the school's Special Education Needs (SEN) department, ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation and policies.
• Develop, implement, and monitor Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for students with diverse learning needs.
• Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify students requiring additional support.
• Liaise effectively with parents/guardians, teachers, support staff, and external specialists (e.g., educational psychologists, therapists).
• Provide training and guidance to teaching staff on strategies for supporting students with SEN in mainstream classrooms.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of all SEN students, including assessments, IEPs, and progress reports.
• Collaborate with the school leadership team to promote an inclusive school culture and ethos.
• Advocate for the needs of students with SEN within the school and with external bodies.
• Manage the SEN budget and resources effectively.

Skills

SEN coordination

IEP development

Educational assessment

Stakeholder liaison

Leadership

Hybrid work adaptability

Education

Degree in Education or Psychology with Special Education specialization

Postgraduate qualification in SEN coordination

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a reputable independent school located in the scenic area of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , is seeking a highly qualified and compassionate Special Education Needs Coordinator (SENCO) . This vital role involves overseeing the provision of support for students with special educational needs, ensuring they receive the tailored education required to reach their full potential. The SENCO will work collaboratively with teachers, parents, external agencies, and the students themselves to develop and implement effective Individual Education Plans (IEPs). This hybrid position requires a balance of on-site engagement for direct student interaction, meetings, and coordination, with some flexibility for administrative tasks. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of various learning disabilities, assessment tools, and intervention strategies, combined with strong leadership and communication skills. You will be instrumental in fostering an inclusive environment where all students feel supported and valued, contributing significantly to the school's commitment to educational equity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the school's Special Education Needs (SEN) department, ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation and policies.
• Develop, implement, and monitor Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for students with diverse learning needs.
• Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify students requiring additional support.
• Liaise effectively with parents/guardians, teachers, support staff, and external specialists (e.g., educational psychologists, therapists).
• Provide training and guidance to teaching staff on strategies for supporting students with SEN in mainstream classrooms.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of all SEN students, including assessments, IEPs, and progress reports.
• Collaborate with the school leadership team to promote an inclusive school culture and ethos.
• Advocate for the needs of students with SEN within the school and with external bodies.
• Manage the SEN budget and resources effectively.

Requirements

• A relevant degree in Education, Psychology, or a related field, with a specialization in Special Education.
• A postgraduate qualification or extensive training in Special Education Needs coordination.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience working directly with students with special educational needs, with at least 2 years in a coordination or leadership role.
• In-depth knowledge of SEN legislation, policies, and best practices in South Africa.
• Experience in conducting educational assessments and developing IEPs.Excellent communication, interpersonal, and advocacy skills.
• Strong leadership and organizational abilities.
• Experience working in a hybrid or flexible work environment.
• Proficiency in relevant educational software and record-keeping systems.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications. This hybrid role provides a balance between professional contribution and personal well-being. Employees will have access to ongoing professional development opportunities, a supportive and collaborative work environment, and the chance to make a significant impact on the lives of students with special needs in Richards Bay . The school provides excellent resources and facilities. Join a dedicated team committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning community.