At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape SEND provision, ensuring vulnerable pupils receive tailored support.
- Company: Amegreen Education, a supportive and inclusive school community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health cash plan, free holiday accommodation, and professional development.
- Other info: Join a diverse team with excellent growth opportunities and a commitment to equality.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your career in education.
- Qualifications: Degree, QTS, and proven SEND teaching experience required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Amegreen Education is looking for a dedicated and experienced SENCO to join our team. Working in close partnership with the Executive Headteacher and Heads of School, you will shape and lead our SEND provision across the school community, ensuring our most vulnerable pupils receive the tailored support they need to access education and thrive.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain and manage the SEND register and student records
- Lead on the access arrangements process for internal and public examinations
- Monitor and evaluate the quality of SEND teaching and learning
- Write and review Individual Education Plans (IEPs) with teaching staff
- Liaise with external agencies including speech and language, occupational therapy, medical and social services
- Communicate effectively with parents and carers about their child's progress and support
- Contribute to school leadership, development planning and self-evaluation
- Manage the SEND departmental budget
- Ensure all safeguarding procedures are followed and concerns reported appropriately
What We Are Looking For
Essential
- Degree or equivalent qualification and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- NASENCO qualification or NPQ (National Professional Qualification post September 2024)
- Proven SEND teaching experience
- Experience working with pupils with ASD, ADHD and cognitive or communication delay
- Knowledge of exam access arrangements
- Understanding of child safeguarding and relevant legislation
- Strong behaviour management skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Calm, resilient and patient with strong time management skills
Desirable
- Experience preparing IEPs and managing annual reviews
- Experience working with Local Authorities
- Knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and its statutory frameworks
Working Pattern And Benefits
- Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 4.00pm, with minimal after-hours commitments
- Friday afternoons are CPD time with no students on site, plus 10 INSET days across the year
- Therapeutic reflection and twice-daily briefings to support strong practice and consistency
- Regular offsite outdoor learning and enrichment sessions
- Hot lunch cooked on site every day
- Opportunities to collaborate across West Berkshire and with our partnership school, sharing expertise and best practice
- Life insurance (death in service) - 4x basic annual salary
- Health cash plan (Health Shield) (after probation/eligibility applies)
- Training and development - induction and mandatory training, plus CPD, therapeutic support and further qualifications
- Free holiday accommodation - company holiday home on south coast
- Discounts - Blue Light Card + local partner discounts
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) - free, confidential 24/7 support helpline
- Company pension with award winning provider and enhanced employer contributions
- Company sick pay scheme available after 6 months’ service
- Electric car scheme + Cycle to Work - salary sacrifice options
- Recognition - Employee of the Month + long service awards
- Discounted driving lessons with local instructor
- Referral bonus scheme - financial incentives for successful referrals (criteria apply)
Equality and Diversity
Amegreen is committed to being an organisation where people can be their authentic selves in a safe and inclusive environment. We are actively building diverse teams and welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds. If you require any accessibility adjustments to support your application, please contact us.
Safeguarding
Amegreen Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. Successful candidates will be required to go through a thorough safeguarding onboarding process which includes a full employment history review and an enhanced DBS check. Adherence to Safeguarding and GDPR requirements is mandatory for all employees.
SENCO in Newbury employer: Amegreen Childrens Services
Amegreen Education is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its staff, offering a supportive work culture where collaboration and innovation thrive. With a strong commitment to safeguarding and inclusivity, employees benefit from comprehensive training opportunities, generous leave for professional development, and unique perks such as free holiday accommodation and a health cash plan. Located in West Berkshire, the role of SENCO allows you to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable pupils while enjoying a balanced work-life schedule.
Contact Details:
Amegreen Childrens Services Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SENCO in Newbury
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, especially those who work with SEND. They might know about openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and relevant legislation. Be ready to discuss how you've supported vulnerable pupils in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience with IEPs and access arrangements during interviews. Bring examples of how you've tailored support for students with ASD or ADHD.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive!
We think you need these skills to ace SENCO in Newbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and skills that match the SENCO role. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission at Amegreen Education!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since excellent verbal and written communication is key for this role, ensure your application reflects this. Use clear language and structure your thoughts well – it’s your chance to shine!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to mention any specific experiences you have with SEND teaching, IEPs, or working with external agencies. We love seeing how you’ve made a difference in previous roles!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at Amegreen Childrens Services
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and relevant legislation. Be ready to discuss your experience with pupils who have ASD, ADHD, and other communication delays. This will show that you’re not just qualified but also passionate about supporting vulnerable students.
✨Prepare for IEP Discussions
Since writing and reviewing Individual Education Plans (IEPs) is a key responsibility, come prepared with examples of IEPs you've worked on in the past. Think about how you collaborated with teaching staff and external agencies to create effective support plans.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a SENCO, you'll need to communicate effectively with parents, carers, and other professionals. Prepare to share examples of how you've successfully communicated complex information in an accessible way. This will highlight your strong verbal and written communication skills.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Teamwork
Amegreen Education values collaboration, so be ready to discuss your experience in contributing to school leadership and development planning. Share specific instances where you’ve led initiatives or worked closely with colleagues to improve SEND provision.
