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- Tasks: Lead and develop an inclusive learning environment for students with SEND.
- Company: Join a vibrant, high-performing school committed to excellence and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and supportive culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while shaping an outstanding educational culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading SEND within a school and collaboration with external agencies.
- Other info: Opportunities for training and career growth in a dynamic school environment.
The predicted salary is between 57831 - 63815 £ per year.
Are you an inspirational, compassionate leader with a deep commitment to inclusion, relational practice, and exceptional SEND provision? Do you have the vision, expertise and drive to continue shaping an outstanding culture where every student thrives?
Contract: Full time, Permanent
Salary Range: Leadership Scale Point 7-11 £57831 - £63815
Start Date: September 2026
About the role: We are seeking to appoint a highly skilled and motivated SENDCO to join our exceptional school community. This is a key strategic and operational leadership role, responsible for the continued development of an inclusive learning environment where students with SEND receive the highest levels of support and opportunity. Our provision - particularly our HeartSpace - has been celebrated by OFSTED as exceptional, and we are looking for a colleague who will honour this legacy whilst confidently driving the next phase of growth.
This role will form part of our extended leadership team, and will include line management of the Head of HeartSpace, which is our resource and specialist provision for students with an EHCP and complex needs. You will provide professional CPD and guidance to staff to help them deliver the highest quality of education for all our students and support with the effective use of resources to secure an inclusive education. You will use evidence-informed practice alongside legislation within the provision and guidance you offer.
Candidates considering the role should have experience in leading SEND within a school, either as a SENDCO or Assistant, and of collaborating with external agencies. For the right candidate support can be provided to receive within-role training while working towards achieving the NPQ for SENDCO.
About our school: Our school culture is built around our 5 Core Values: Aim High, Be Determined, Be Kind, Be Proud and Be Supportive. We are also extremely proud of our ambition to achieve excellence through a values driven education. We are a vibrant, oversubscribed 11 to 18 comprehensive school with excellent GCSE results across all subjects and are recognised as one of the highest performing schools in the region in terms of Key Stage 4 outcomes. Our A level results and destinations are equally impressive, with the school placed in the top 25% in the country and over 95% of students gaining entrance to their preferred choice of university in 2025.
We are committed to professional development for all staff, regardless of role. We have an innovative teacher development programme, which truly empowers teachers to take control of their own professional development through a supportive peer-coaching model. Regardless of what point you are at in your career and whatever your aspirations may be, Penistone Grammar School can support you to achieve them.
As a school, we pride ourselves on evidence informed practice, consistently high standards of teaching and learning, and a commitment to the success of all students, both academically and pastorally. If you share our vision, we want you to be part of our team.
How to Apply? For an application form and pack please click on the link below or call Richard Mapley on (phone number removed). The closing date for receipt of completed application forms is Thursday 16th April at 09:00. We welcome visits to the school on Tuesday 14th or Wednesday 15th April between 3pm and 4pm. Interviews will be held on Wednesday 22nd April 2026.
SENDCO (Strategic Lead for SEND / Extended Leadership) in Penistone employer: Hays Specialist Recruitment - Education
Contact Detail:
Hays Specialist Recruitment - Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SENDCO (Strategic Lead for SEND / Extended Leadership) in Penistone
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who are already in leadership roles. They might have insider info on opportunities or even recommend you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s values and recent achievements. Show how your vision aligns with their mission of inclusion and excellence. We want to see that passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially around SEND leadership. Use examples from your experience that highlight your commitment to creating an inclusive environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace SENDCO (Strategic Lead for SEND / Extended Leadership) in Penistone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Inclusion: When writing your application, let your passion for inclusion shine through. Share specific examples of how you've championed SEND in your previous roles and how you plan to continue that at our school.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to reflect our school's core values: Aim High, Be Determined, Be Kind, Be Proud, and Be Supportive. We want to see how you embody these values in your leadership style and approach to SEND.
Highlight Your Leadership Experience: As a SENDCO, your leadership experience is crucial. Be sure to detail your past roles, especially any strategic or operational leadership positions, and how they’ve prepared you for this role in our exceptional school community.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and allows you to access all the necessary information about the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays Specialist Recruitment - Education
✨Know Your SEND Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest SEND legislation and best practices. Brush up on your knowledge of EHCPs and how to effectively support students with complex needs. This will show your commitment to inclusion and your ability to lead in this area.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how it aligns with the school’s core values. Think about examples where you've inspired and motivated staff or students, particularly in fostering an inclusive environment. This will demonstrate that you can honour the school's legacy while driving growth.
✨Engage with Evidence-Informed Practice
Be ready to talk about how you’ve used evidence-informed strategies in your previous roles. Share specific examples of how these practices have improved outcomes for students with SEND. This will highlight your expertise and commitment to high-quality education.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the school’s current SEND provision and future goals. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to the school’s vision. It’s also a great way to engage with the interviewers and leave a lasting impression.