Director of SEND

Summary:

Director of SEND (SENDCO) role with a focus on inclusion and strategic leadership.

About the School:

A school committed to fostering individual growth and inclusion, with a strong focus on student wellbeing, professional development, and a supportive community.

The Opportunity:

As the Director of SEND, you will lead the school’s strategic approach to supporting students with special educational needs and disabilities. This role is pivotal in shaping inclusive practices, driving improvement, and ensuring equitable access to learning for all students.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership for SEND provision across the school, ensuring high-quality support and access to learning.
• Line-manage and develop the SEND department, maintaining high standards of compliance and practice.
• Oversee the identification, assessment, and review of students with SEND, ensuring statutory duties are met.
• Collaborate with teachers and curriculum leaders to promote inclusive pedagogy and effective classroom practice.
• Lead provision for vulnerable learners, including Children Looked After, and coordinate multi-agency involvement.
• Work with senior leadership to evaluate provision, analyse data, and drive continuous improvement.
• Contribute to safeguarding, inclusion, and the wider leadership of the school.

Qualifications & Skills:

Required

• Extensive knowledge of SEND legislation, best practice, and national developments.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to build professional relationships across the school community.
• Experience in leading a high-performing team and delivering strategic change.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex systems and drive improvement in outcomes for students with SEND.
• Commitment to inclusion and improving life chances for all learners.

Preferred

• Experience in leading SEND provision in a secondary school setting.
• Knowledge of safeguarding and multi-agency working practices.
• Experience with curriculum development and inclusive teaching strategies.
• Familiarity with NPQ qualifications or a commitment to professional development.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Professional learning and development opportunities, including funded NPQ qualifications.
• Support for staff wellbeing and work-life balance.