At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape SEND provision, ensuring vulnerable pupils receive tailored support.
- Company: Amegreen Education Ltd, a supportive and inclusive educational organisation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health cash plan, free holiday accommodation, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy regular outdoor learning sessions and a strong focus on staff wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Degree, QTS, and NASENCO qualification with proven SEND teaching experience.
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 Theale employer: Amegreen Childrens Services
Amegreen Education Ltd 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 health cash plans. Located in West Berkshire, this role as 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 Theale
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, attend local events, and join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a SENCO position or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s SEND provision. Familiarise yourself with their approach and think about how your experience aligns with their needs. This shows you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that SENCO role! We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to the hiring team. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on new opportunities.
We think you need these skills to ace SENCO in Theale
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 your skills in managing SEND provisions and working with vulnerable pupils shine through!
Showcase Your Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your degree, QTS, and any relevant qualifications like NASENCO or NPQ. We’re looking for candidates who meet our essential criteria, so let’s make it clear you tick those boxes!
Communicate Clearly:Your written communication skills are key for this role, so ensure your application is well-structured and free of errors. We appreciate clarity and professionalism, especially when discussing sensitive topics like safeguarding.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application via our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
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. During the interview, demonstrate your verbal and written communication skills by articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Maybe even share a success story where your communication made a difference.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Teamwork
You’ll be working closely with the Executive Headteacher and Heads of School, so highlight your leadership experience and ability to work as part of a team. Share examples of how you've contributed to school development planning or self-evaluation processes in previous roles.