At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the SENDCo in removing barriers to learning for students with SEND.
- Company: Join a vibrant academy committed to inclusivity and student success.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Dynamic team culture with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Good honours degree, GCSE Maths and English, and SEND experience.
Find out exactly what skills, experience, and qualifications you will need to succeed in this role before applying below.
About Us
Our core values of determination, integrity, curiosity and empathy inspire and nurture a passion for learning and success with a strong sense of inclusivity, individuality and responsibility. We use our voices purposefully as global citizens. The foundations of achieving our vision are:
- Outstanding curriculum, with outstanding quality and breadth of education
- Exceptional teachers who support students' passion for learning with the tools for success for every individual
- Relationships, routines and recognition that lead to a sense of belonging, wellbeing, mutual respect and exemplary behaviour both within Harris Lowe Academy Willesden and in our local community
- Post-16 excellence with a broad range of pathways, sporting academies and inspiring student leaders
- Arts and sports specialisms that embed essential skills and enable exceptional performance
Our moral purpose is to ensure our students and staff have access to the best possible futures and contribute positively to society through an outstanding careers/development programme, excellent leadership, and coaching. From its origins as the first city academy, the exceptional education we provide takes advantage of the opportunities offered by our privileged location and facilities in the most vibrant, multi-cultural city in the world. The enthusiasm, discipline and ambition of our students combined with the high expectations, outstanding teaching and creative dedication of our staff makes our vision a reality.
Summary
We are looking for a Deputy SENDCo to join our thriving team at Harris Lowe Academy Willesden. This role is suitable for non-teaching candidates.
Main Areas of Responsibility
As Deputy SENDCo, you will support the SENDCo in providing professional leadership and management to remove barriers to learning where they exist for students with SEND. This will involve providing professional guidance on SEND to colleagues, working closely with staff, parents and other agencies and assuming delegated responsibilities in negotiation with the SENDCo. You will also support the academic progress of students with SEND through small group or 1:1 interventions.
Qualifications & Experience
We would like to hear from you if you have:
- A good honours degree (or equivalent)
- GCSE Maths and English at grade C or above, or equivalent
- Evidence of Continuing Professional Development relevant to SEND or willingness to engage with further training
- SEN experience in a secondary school
- Evidence of successful experience supporting young people with SEND
- Evidence of pastoral experience
- Experience of working with key stakeholders such as parents, governors and employers
For a full job description and person specification, please download the Job Pack.
Rewards & Benefits
Our people are at the heart of our success. We have developed a strong culture of collaboration and best practice, with professional development and career planning at its centre. We invest in our staff with support, coaching, mentoring, and a wide range of top-quality training programmes delivered at every level. In addition to the opportunities for career development and progression, we also offer a competitive rewards and benefits package which includes our Harris Allowance for teachers on MPS/UPS, a Performance and Loyalty Bonus, Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions, a Wellbeing Cash Plan, electric car scheme, and many other benefits.
Safeguarding Notice
The Harris Federation and all our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, references, an online search, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check will be completed.
Equal Opportunities
The Harris Federation is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We value the diversity of our staff and students, and everyone at the Harris Federation is equally valued and respected. We aim to be an inclusive employer that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment.
Next Steps
If you have any questions about this opportunity, please contact us via e-mail, or call to arrange a conversation. Before applying, please download the Job Pack for full details on the job responsibilities and person specification. You will need this when completing your application. Please note: we may hold interviews as and when applications are received and we reserve the right to offer to a candidate prior to the closing date. We only accept applications submitted online via our careers website and which are completed before the closing deadline. With this in mind, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible and advise you check the job information as per the listing on our careers site.
Deputy SENDCo employer: Harris Federation
Harris Lowe Academy Willesden is an exceptional employer that prioritises the professional growth and wellbeing of its staff, fostering a collaborative culture rooted in determination, integrity, curiosity, and empathy. With a strong commitment to inclusivity and individual development, employees benefit from extensive training programmes, competitive rewards, and a supportive environment that encourages career progression. Located in the vibrant, multi-cultural heart of London, our academy offers unique opportunities to make a meaningful impact on students' lives while being part of a dedicated team that values every member's contribution.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy SENDCo
✨Tip Number 1
Before you even think about applying, make sure you know the ins and outs of the Deputy SENDCo role. Check out the job pack for all the details on responsibilities and qualifications. This way, you can tailor your approach and show us you're the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 2
Networking is key! Reach out to current or former staff at Harris Lowe Academy Willesden. They can give you the lowdown on the culture and what it’s really like to work here. Plus, a friendly chat might just give you an edge in the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
When you get that interview, be ready to showcase your SEND experience. Think of specific examples where you've made a difference for students with SEND. We love hearing about real-life impacts, so don’t hold back!
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the only way we accept applications, and it ensures your info gets to the right people. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate, so no excuses!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy SENDCo
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Before you start writing, make sure you understand the skills and qualifications needed for the Deputy SENDCo role. Check out the job pack and jot down how your experience aligns with what we're looking for.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Use specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your SEND expertise and how you’ve supported students. We want to see your personality shine through!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and gets straight to the heart of your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only accept applications through our careers website. So, make sure you submit your application online before the deadline. It’s the best way to ensure it gets into our hands!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harris Federation
✨Know Your SEND Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Familiarise yourself with current legislation, best practices, and any specific challenges faced by students with SEND. This will show your commitment and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your past experiences in supporting students with SEND. Think of specific examples where you've made a positive impact, whether through interventions or collaboration with parents and staff. This will help demonstrate your capability and passion for the role.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
As a Deputy SENDCo, you'll need to work closely with various stakeholders. Be ready to talk about how you've successfully collaborated with teachers, parents, and external agencies in the past. Highlighting your teamwork skills will be crucial in showcasing your fit for the role.
✨Align with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with the core values of the Harris Federation, such as determination, integrity, and empathy. During the interview, weave these values into your responses to show that you resonate with their mission and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment.
