At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead SEND strategy and create an inclusive learning environment for all students.
- Company: Newham Community Learning, a supportive and ambitious school community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a collaborative leadership culture.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to safeguarding and high aspirations for every child.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and shape inclusive education.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and leadership experience in secondary education.
The predicted salary is between 81120 - 88496 £ per year.
Salary: Leadership Pay Range L14 - L18 (£81,120 - £88,496)
Contract: Full Time, Permanent
Location: School Based
Closing Date: 8th June 2026
Interview: 15th June 2026
Join our Leadership Team. We are seeking an exceptional Assistant Headteacher (SENDCo) to provide strategic leadership for SEND and inclusion across the school. Working closely with the Head of School and senior leaders, you will play a key role in shaping a fully inclusive learning environment where all students thrive.
You will lead on SEND strategy, statutory compliance, and high-quality provision for vulnerable learners, ensuring that every student receives the support they need to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.
The Role:
- Lead and develop the school’s SEND and inclusion strategy.
- Ensure high-quality provision and support for students with SEND.
- Promote adaptive teaching and inclusive classroom practice.
- Oversee EHCP processes, annual reviews and statutory responsibilities.
- Lead and develop SEND staff and intervention provision.
- Work collaboratively with safeguarding, pastoral and external agencies.
- Drive high expectations, excellent outcomes and a culture of belonging for all students.
- Develop high-quality adaptive teaching and inclusive classroom practice.
- Contribute fully to whole-school leadership and improvement priorities.
We Are Looking For Someone Who:
- Holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
- Has successful leadership experience within a secondary school.
- Has a strong understanding of the SEND Code of Practice and inclusive education.
- Has a proven track record of improving outcomes for vulnerable and SEND students.
- Is an excellent communicator and collaborative leader.
- Has experience of line management and staff development.
- Is committed to safeguarding, equality and high aspirations for every child.
- Holds a National Award for SEN Coordination (or willingness to complete it).
Why Join Us?
At Newham Community Learning, we are committed to creating a culture of ambition, inclusion and excellence. We value professional development, collaboration and leadership at all levels, and we are proud of our supportive and forward-thinking school community.
Safeguarding
Newham Community Learning is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and all safer recruitment procedures.
Assistant Headteacher (SENDCo) employer: Newham Community Learning
At Newham Community Learning, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture of ambition and inclusion, making it an exceptional place for educators to thrive. Our commitment to professional development and collaborative leadership ensures that every member of our team has the opportunity to grow and make a meaningful impact in the lives of our students. Located in a vibrant community, we offer a supportive environment where innovative teaching practices are encouraged, and every child is given the chance to succeed.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Headteacher (SENDCo)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at the school, especially those in leadership roles. A friendly chat can give you insider info and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the school's SEND strategy. Familiarise yourself with their current practices and think about how you can contribute to enhancing their inclusive environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style during the interview. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've improved outcomes for SEND students in the past. We want to see your passion and commitment!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our community.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Headteacher (SENDCo)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Assistant Headteacher (SENDCo). Use specific examples that showcase your leadership in SEND and inclusion strategies.
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for inclusive education shine through! Share your commitment to supporting vulnerable learners and how you’ve made a difference in previous roles. We want to see your passion for creating a thriving learning environment.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. This helps us quickly understand your qualifications and fit for the role without getting lost in lengthy explanations.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can process your application smoothly. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our community!
How to prepare for a job interview at Newham Community Learning
✨Know Your SEND Code of Practice
Make sure you brush up on the SEND Code of Practice before your interview. Be ready to discuss how you've applied it in your previous roles and how you plan to implement it in this new position. This shows that you’re not just familiar with the guidelines, but that you can actively use them to improve student outcomes.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples of your leadership experience within a secondary school. Think about times when you’ve led teams or initiatives that improved SEND provision. Highlighting these experiences will demonstrate your capability to lead and develop the school’s SEND strategy effectively.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working closely with various stakeholders, be ready to talk about your collaborative approach. Share examples of how you’ve worked with safeguarding, pastoral teams, and external agencies to support vulnerable learners. This will show that you value teamwork and understand its importance in creating an inclusive environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-life situations. Think about challenges you’ve faced regarding SEND and inclusion, and how you overcame them. This will help you demonstrate your critical thinking and adaptability, which are key for the role.
