At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead SEND across the academy and support students with learning difficulties.
- Company: Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy, part of a collaborative MAT network.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, teacher pension scheme, and access to a free virtual GP service.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to safeguarding and equality.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and enhance our diverse SEND provision.
- Qualifications: Passion for SEND and experience in educational settings.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 55000 £ per year.
Benefits include Leadership scale (London Fringe), Teacher Pension Scheme, 24/7 access to a free virtual GP Service, collaborative MAT network, and additional LAT benefits.
Role and Responsibilities:
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.
SENCO in Kent employer: LeighAcademiesTrust
Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy is an outstanding employer that prioritises the professional growth of its staff within a supportive and collaborative environment. With access to a comprehensive benefits package, including a leadership scale salary, a Teacher Pension Scheme, and a 24/7 virtual GP service, employees are well-equipped to thrive both personally and professionally. The academy's commitment to inclusivity and excellence in Special Educational Needs provision, alongside its recognition as a National Area of Excellence, makes it an exceptional place for passionate educators to make a meaningful impact.
