At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead SEND excellence and ensure inclusive education for all students.
- Company: Join Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy, a leader in inclusive education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, teacher pension scheme, and 24/7 virtual GP access.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative MAT network with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of students with SEND.
- Qualifications: Passion for SEND and experience in educational leadership required.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 65000 £ per year.
Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy is seeking an exceptional and dedicated Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) to join our team starting in September 2026. The SENCO will lead SEND across the academy, taking responsibility for the day‑to‑day operation of the SEN policy, the SEN information report, and the provision made by the school for pupils with learning difficulties or disabilities.
The successful candidate will work closely with staff, parents/carers, and other agencies, whilst line managing a team of experienced teaching SEND and SEN support staff. We have a high proportion of students with SEND. The number of students with Education, Health and Care plans (EHCPs) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is more than three times the national average.
The specialist provision, The Spectrum Centre, is recognised as a National Area of Excellence, and we also host two small Specialist Resource Provisions: a Hearing Impaired provision with a qualified Teacher of the Deaf in post, and a Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN) provision with a qualified SEN teacher in charge.
The role of our SENCO is crucial in ensuring that our inclusive values are upheld and all our students make excellent academic progress whilst developing the skills required to contribute effectively in a democratic society. The successful candidate must have a legitimate passion for SEND and must be motivated to take our excellent, diverse SEND provision to the next level.
Commitment to Safeguarding, Equality & Diversity
Leigh Academies Trust and all of our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We adopt a fair, robust and consistent recruitment process across all academies and business units, consistent with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check.
As a Trust, we are passionate about diversity and recognise that, as individuals, we all bring something unique to the role regardless of any protected characteristics. We treat all our people equally, without compromise. We are committed to providing equality and fairness throughout our recruitment and employment practices and to not discriminating on any grounds.
Senior SENCO: Lead SEND Excellence & Inclusive Education in Dartford employer: LeighAcademiesTrust
At Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions inclusivity and professional growth. Our collaborative environment, supported by a dedicated MAT network, offers extensive benefits including a competitive leadership scale, a comprehensive Teacher Pension Scheme, and 24/7 access to a free virtual GP service. We are committed to fostering a culture of excellence in SEND education, providing our staff with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while developing their careers in a supportive and diverse setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior SENCO: Lead SEND Excellence & Inclusive Education in Dartford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the school culture and what they really value in a SENCO.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into SEND policies and best practices. We want to show that we’re not just knowledgeable but also passionate about making a difference for students with learning difficulties.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Grab a mate and do some mock interviews. This will help us articulate our vision for SEND and how we plan to lead the team effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed and shows we’re serious about joining the team at Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior SENCO: Lead SEND Excellence & Inclusive Education in Dartford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for SEND:When writing your application, let your passion for Special Educational Needs shine through. We want to see how motivated you are to make a difference in the lives of students with learning difficulties or disabilities.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the SENCO role. Highlight your experience with SEND and how it aligns with our values at Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that directly address the key responsibilities and qualifications outlined in the job description.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at LeighAcademiesTrust
✨Know Your SEND Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest SEND policies and practices. Brush up on your knowledge of EHCPs, ASD, and how to support students with diverse needs. This will show your passion for SEND and your commitment to making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a SENCO, you'll be leading a team, so be prepared to discuss your leadership style. Think of examples where you've successfully managed staff or collaborated with parents and other agencies. Highlight your ability to inspire and motivate others.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations involving students with SEND. Prepare some real-life examples from your experience that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and your approach to inclusive education.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Safeguarding
Safeguarding is crucial in this role, so be ready to discuss your understanding of safeguarding policies and how you’ve implemented them in the past. Show that you prioritise the welfare of students and are proactive in creating a safe learning environment.
