At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead SEND provision and support pupils with complex needs in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Elmtree Grove School, dedicated to transforming lives through tailored education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private healthcare, free training, and employee support.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people with SEND.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and experience with complex SEND required.
The predicted salary is between 32916 - 47000 £ per year.
Location: Fishponds, Bristol
Start date: 1st September 2026
Hours: Full-time, 8:30am - 4:00pm, Monday to Friday
Type: Perm (1-year fixed-term)
Salary: £32,916 - £47,000 PA
Contract: Full-time (term time + INSET; flexible by agreement)
Lead with purpose. Transform lives.
About the Role
As SENDCo, you will be a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, leading and coordinating SEND provision across the school. You'll ensure every pupil's needs are understood, planned for, and met through high-quality, individualized approaches. You'll work at the heart of a multidisciplinary network collaborating with families, local authorities, and external professionals to create stability, progress, and positive outcomes for every child.
What You'll Be Doing
- Leading SEND provision across the school in line with the SEND Code of Practice
- Overseeing EHCPs, annual reviews, and liaison with local authorities
- Driving high-quality, personalized provision for pupils with complex needs
- Supporting and developing staff in inclusive and trauma-informed practice
- Working closely with families to build strong, trusting partnerships
- Coordinating multi‐agency input (Educational Psychologists, SALT, Social Care)
- Contributing to safeguarding, behaviour support, and pastoral planning
- Line‐managing and developing the Learning Support team
- Monitoring the impact of interventions and ensuring accountability
What We're Looking For
We're looking for someone who combines expertise with empathy—a leader who is both strategic and hands‐on. A team player who cares passionately about the life chances of young people.
Essential
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent
- Fully Qualified Teacher (induction passed)
- National Award for SEND Coordination (or willingness to achieve)
- Strong experience with complex SEND and/or SEMH
- In‐depth knowledge of EHCP processes and SEND legislation
- Experience working with external agencies and local authorities
- A calm, resilient and solution‐focused approach
Desirable
- Experience in a specialist or independent setting
- Training in trauma‐informed or therapeutic approaches
Why Join Elmtree Grove School?
Our approach is to offer a bespoke and relevant learning programme for each learner. Integration into standardised education opportunities and social integration is everything we do. No child should have their future negatively affected or be excluded in their later life due to lack of access or support for education opportunities that are appropriate to their abilities & strengths.
We believe strongly in people and look for people who have:
- Education‐relevant qualifications in supporting teaching & learning
- Good experience in supporting young people in an education setting
- Understanding and expertise in supporting learners with SEND
- Skills & strategies in supporting emotional wellbeing
- Tenacity & resilience to manage, influence & effect positive behaviours & decisions in learners
- The ability to present a strong role model for young people, including having fun!
- Collaborative and pro‐active working practices
- A strong sense of responsibility & work ethic
Working with our organisation is a rewarding experience. We offer an enjoyable workplace with additional employment benefits for our permanent staff colleagues:
- Bright HR – online HR management portal also offering partner discounts
- Private Healthcare (Vitality)
- Employee Assist – independent healthcare perks
- Free training – role specific & relevant, accredited training
- Employee Support Assistant – dedicated colleagues to coach & support our employees
- Pension scheme (not currently teacher pension scheme)
- Company celebration events
SENDCo - Independent Primary SEND School in Woodford Green employer: Elementa Support Services
Elmtree Grove School is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its staff. Located in Fishponds, Bristol, we foster a collaborative and supportive work culture, offering bespoke training opportunities and a range of employee benefits including private healthcare and dedicated support for our team. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people with complex needs while enjoying a rewarding and fulfilling career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SENDCo - Independent Primary SEND School in Woodford Green
✨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 of 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 approach to SEND. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their values and how you can contribute to transforming lives at Elmtree Grove School.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for SEND during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in the lives of students with complex needs. This will help us see your commitment and expertise in action!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and making a positive impact.
We think you need these skills to ace SENDCo - Independent Primary SEND School in Woodford Green
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the SENDCo role. Use specific examples from your past that showcase your expertise in supporting pupils with complex needs.
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for working with young people shine through! Share why you’re passionate about SEND and how you can make a difference in their lives. We love seeing candidates who genuinely care.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. This helps us understand your qualifications and experiences without getting lost in the details.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Elementa Support Services
✨Know Your SEND Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the SEND Code of Practice and understand the specific needs related to SEMH, trauma, ADHD, and Autism. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also passionate about supporting students with complex needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a SENDCo, you'll be leading a team and coordinating with various stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, especially in inclusive settings. Highlight your ability to collaborate with families and external professionals to create positive outcomes.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations involving pupils with complex needs. Think about real-life scenarios you've faced and how you approached them. This will demonstrate your calm, resilient, and solution-focused approach.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Continuous Learning
Mention any relevant training you've undertaken, especially in trauma-informed practices or working with external agencies. If you’re willing to pursue the National Award for SEND Coordination, make sure to express that enthusiasm. It shows you're dedicated to improving your skills for the benefit of your students.
