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- Tasks: Shape and strengthen specialist provision for pupils with autism and complex needs.
- Company: Join Riseley Green School, a brand-new specialist school dedicated to nurturing young minds.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible benefits, and first-class mental health support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and SENCo qualification required; experience in inclusive settings preferred.
- Other info: Be part of a 'Great Place to Work' and enjoy excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 46000 £ per year.
At OFG, we work smarter so you can spend more time doing what makes you happy! This is your opportunity to help shape something truly special at Riseley Green School, our brand-new specialist school that opened in May 2025 in Riseley, Reading, Berkshire. With capacity for 60 pupils aged 4–16 years, we support children and young people with autism (ASC) and complex needs — providing a nurturing, inclusive environment where every learner can thrive.
About the Role
We are looking for a dedicated and knowledgeable SENCo to help shape and strengthen the specialist provision within our SEN school. This key role sits at the heart of our community, ensuring every pupil—each with their own unique needs, strengths, and learning journey—receives personalised, high‑quality support. Working alongside the Headteacher and therapy team, you will lead the strategic development of SEND practice, champion an inclusive and nurturing environment, and ensure pupils make meaningful progress academically, socially, and personally.
Key Responsibilities
- Support pupils and families by working with parents/carers to understand needs and plan effective provision
- Lead on EHC plan processes, ensuring provision is accurate, relevant, and impactful
- Oversee transitions into, through, and beyond the school
- Guide staff in adapting teaching methods and environments for complex needs
- Work with teachers and therapists to identify needs early and implement a strong graduated approach
- Ensure baselining, assessments, and progress monitoring are purposeful and personalised
- Shape an annual SEND improvement plan with the Headteacher
- Identify whole‑school patterns and use insights to strengthen SEND practice
- Support staff development by identifying training needs and promoting high‑quality CPD
- Ensure reasonable adjustments, access arrangements, and equality requirements are fully met
- Collaborate with behaviour and well‑being teams to maintain a calm, supportive environment
- Keep accurate, up‑to‑date SEND records across the school
Requirements / Qualifications
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- SENCo qualification
- Experience working in specialist or inclusive settings
- Strong understanding of complex and diverse SEND profiles
- Commitment to personalised learning, teamwork, and pupil well‑being
About Us
Riseley Green School is an independent specialist school for autistic young people aged 4 to 16 years. Situated on the outskirts of Reading, Berkshire, the school provides a distinctive blend of education and support tailored to a diverse range of pupil needs and abilities. For over 19 years, Options Autism has provided care and education to pupils, young people, and adults with autism, complex needs, and learning difficulties. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are a leading provider of specialist education, delivering innovative approaches that produce measurable outcomes for neuro‑divergent young people and young adults.
Benefits
- Life Assurance
- Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions
- Your Wellbeing Matters – access to a wide range of first‑class mental health support services and physical health checks
- Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista) – a market‑leading benefit offering, including a wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits, 100’s of discount options valid in the UK and abroad, Cycle to Work Schemes, Electric Car Purchase Scheme, Critical illness cover, Family Growth Support – inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
SENCo/PPA Cover employer: Acorn Care and Education
Contact Detail:
Acorn Care and Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SENCo/PPA Cover
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEND. They might know about opportunities that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its values. Understand their approach to SEND and think about how your experience aligns with their mission. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for inclusive education during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've supported pupils with complex needs in the past. This will demonstrate your commitment and expertise in the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our community at Riseley Green School.
We think you need these skills to ace SENCo/PPA Cover
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the SENCo role. We want to see how you can contribute to our nurturing environment and support our pupils with complex needs.
Showcase Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for working with children and young people with autism shine through! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in their lives.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your qualifications and experiences are easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity at Riseley Green School.
How to prepare for a job interview at Acorn Care and Education
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of SEND practices and the specific needs of pupils with autism and complex needs. Familiarise yourself with the latest strategies and frameworks that support personalised learning, as this will show your commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in specialist or inclusive settings. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully supported pupils with diverse needs and how you've collaborated with staff to enhance their learning experiences.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the school's approach to SEND, the team dynamics, and how they measure success for their pupils. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Highlight your ability to work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and families. Discuss how you’ve previously led or contributed to initiatives that foster an inclusive environment, as this aligns perfectly with the ethos of Riseley Green School.
