School SENCO in Derby

Derby Grammar School is seeking an outstanding, experienced and dedicated SENCO (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator) to lead and develop our provision for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Derby Grammar School is a co-educational independent school that has provided excellent schooling to pupils from Derby and across the County. Established in 1995, it is a leading independent school for children aged between 4 and 18.

This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate and highly motivated teacher and leader to play a key role in ensuring that every pupil is supported to achieve their full potential. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership for SEND across the school whilst overseeing the effective day-to-day operation of SEND provision.

Working closely with the Headmaster, teaching staff, parents and external agencies, the SENCO will champion inclusive practice, support high-quality teaching and learning, and ensure that pupils with SEND receive the personalised support they need to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.

The SENCO will:

• Lead the strategic development and implementation of the school's SEND provision.
• Monitor and evaluate the progress and achievement of pupils with SEND.
• Ensure compliance with statutory responsibilities relating to Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
• Support teaching staff in identifying and meeting the needs of pupils with additional learning needs.
• Work collaboratively with parents, external professionals and relevant agencies to secure the best outcomes for pupils.
• Coordinate SEND interventions and monitor their effectiveness.
• Lead annual reviews and maintain accurate SEND records.
• Provide professional guidance, training and support to colleagues.
• Contribute to wider school improvement and inclusion initiatives.

Essential:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
• Experience of teaching across the primary age range.
• Successful experience in a middle or senior leadership position.
• Experience of SEND and inclusion provision.
• Strong understanding of the SEND Code of Practice and relevant legislation.
• Experience analysing pupil progress and attainment data.
• Excellent communication, organisational and leadership skills.
• A proven track record of raising pupil achievement.
• Commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and high educational standards.

Desirable:

• National Award for SEN Coordination (NASENCO) or willingness to undertake the qualification.
• Experience of leading staff training and development.
• Experience of coaching and mentoring colleagues.
• Subject leadership experience.
• Experience working with governors and external agencies.

Benefits at Derby Grammar School include:

• Competitive Salary, with annual reviews.
• Discount on school fees for staff children, if appropriate.
• Free staff car park.
• Meals for staff whilst at work.
• Pension scheme.
• Health plan that provides significant coverage such as optical, dental, dental accident, chiropody, therapy treatments and health club concession.
• Access to Doctor line from anywhere in the world, scanning such as MRI, CT and PET scan.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Westfield rewards (discounts from various high street and online outlets).

Interested individuals should apply at the earliest opportunity. Derby Grammar School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children & young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, as all new staff will be subject to enhanced DBS clearance, identity checks, qualification checks and employment checks to include an exploration of any gaps within employment, two satisfactory references and registration with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).