Job Description: SENCO Lead
Reports To

Headteacher / Deputy Headteacher

Job Purpose

The SENCO Lead will provide strategic leadership and operational management of the school's Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision. The post holder will ensure that pupils with SEND receive high-quality support, enabling them to achieve their full academic, social, and emotional potential.

The SENCO Lead will work collaboratively with staff, parents/carers, governors, external agencies, and the Local Authority to develop an inclusive learning environment and ensure compliance with statutory SEND requirements.

Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership

• Lead the development, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the school's SEND policy and provision.
• Promote a whole-school culture of inclusion and high expectations for all pupils.
• Advise the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and Governors on SEND matters and statutory responsibilities.
• Contribute to the School Improvement Plan and wider strategic development of the school.
• Analyse SEND data and use findings to improve outcomes and provision.

SEND Provision and Pupil Support

• Identify and assess pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
• Oversee the graduated approach of Assess, Plan, Do, Review (APDR).
• Coordinate and monitor interventions and support programmes.
• Maintain the SEND Register and ensure accurate pupil records.
• Monitor the progress and attainment of pupils with SEND.
• Ensure appropriate support is in place for pupils transitioning between key stages and educational settings.

Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)

• Coordinate statutory assessments and EHCP applications.
• Ensure EHCP provision is implemented effectively and reviewed annually.
• Prepare reports and documentation for annual reviews and Local Authority consultations.
• Work with staff to ensure targets and outcomes are embedded within classroom practice.

Staff Development and Support

• Provide guidance, coaching, and professional development for teachers and support staff.
• Support teachers in adapting teaching approaches and implementing reasonable adjustments.
• Promote effective Quality First Teaching across the school.
• Lead SEND training and awareness initiatives.

Partnership Working

• Build positive relationships with parents and carers.
• Act as the key point of contact for families regarding SEND matters.
• Liaise with external professionals, including Educational Psychologists, Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, CAMHS, Social Care, and Local Authority services.
• Attend and lead multi-agency meetings where appropriate.

Safeguarding and Inclusion

• Promote the welfare and safeguarding of all pupils, particularly vulnerable learners.
• Ensure compliance with the Equality Act 2010 and SEND Code of Practice.
• Champion inclusion, equality, and diversity throughout the school community.
• Support attendance, behaviour, and wellbeing strategies for pupils with SEND.

Compliance and Administration

• Ensure statutory duties relating to SEND are fulfilled.
• Maintain accurate, confidential, and up-to-date records.
• Prepare reports for governors, SLT, Ofsted inspections, and Local Authority reviews.
• Manage SEND budgets and resources effectively where delegated.

Person SpecificationEssential Qualifications

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
• National Award for SEN Coordination (NASENCO) or willingness to complete within the required timeframe.
• Degree or equivalent qualification.

Essential Experience

• Significant teaching experience.
• Experience supporting pupils with a range of SEND needs.
• Experience leading SEND provision or coordinating interventions.
• Experience working with external agencies and parents.

Knowledge and Understanding

• SEND Code of Practice (2015).
• Equality Act 2010.
• Education, Health and Care Plan processes.
• Safeguarding and child protection procedures.
• Current educational legislation and best practice relating to SEND.

Skills and Attributes

• Strong leadership and organisational skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to analyse and interpret data effectively.
• Commitment to inclusive education and raising achievement.
• Ability to build effective relationships with pupils, families, staff, and external partners.

Safeguarding Statement

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to share this commitment. This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, and all relevant safeguarding and pre-employment checks.

Additional Duties

The post holder may be required to undertake other duties reasonably requested by the Headteacher that are commensurate with the grade and responsibilities of the post.