At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and empower young people with autism and complex needs in a dynamic college environment.
- Company: Phoenix College, a friendly and innovative specialist college in East London.
- Benefits: Free lunch, gym pass, cultural pass, personal development funds, and career progression.
- Other info: Join a growing college rated 'Good' by Ofsted with outstanding behaviour and attitudes.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive and inclusive team.
- Qualifications: Experience supporting learners with high needs; creativity and motivation are key.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Phoenix College is a friendly and forward-thinking Independent Specialist College based in East London, with excellent public transport links. We support around 70 learners aged 16–25 across several sites in Tower Hamlets. Our learners follow two main programmes: Preparation for Adulthood (PfA) and the DFN Project SEARCH supported internship programme. Phoenix College is the leading provision for young people with autism and other special educational needs.
We have ambitious aspirations for students and an inclusive, positive work environment for staff. We have experienced great growth over the last five years and we are excited to reshape our Senior and Middle Leadership Teams with a new SENCo role. This role would suit a creative and motivated professional who is passionate about making a real difference to young people with autism and complex needs. You will need to be flexible and adaptable, responding positively to change as our provision grows.
Experience of working in a specialist college is not essential, but experience supporting learners with high needs is required. We are looking for someone who is committed to making an outstanding contribution to our college and who shares our high expectations for all learners. You will be dedicated to maintaining high standards and improving outcomes for learners, while also being a warm and welcoming presence for parents, trustees and the wider community.
Our students make strong progress through access to a broad, balanced and enriched curriculum. We are proud members of Natspec and the British Association for Supported Employment (BASE), and we were rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted in 2024, with ‘Outstanding’ grades in Behaviour and Attitudes, and Personal Development.
Phoenix College offers some great benefits (including a non-salary package worth over £2,000) to staff which include:
- Free lunch
- Gym pass (up to £250 per year)
- Cultural pass (up to £100 per year)
- Personal development & CPD Funds (up to £900 per year)
- Benenden Private Healthcare
- Career progression
- Teachers’ or LGPS pension scheme
- Great environment and supportive team
If you have the skills, experience and drive to take on these roles and would like to join our supportive team, we would love to hear from you. Phoenix College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and staff. The successful candidate will require an enhanced DBS clearance. We are dedicated to equality and valuing diversity. We are unable to sponsor visas for this position, so you must have independent, full-time right to work in the UK.
SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) in Slough employer: Phoenix College London
Phoenix College is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where staff are valued and encouraged to grow. With a strong commitment to professional development, generous benefits including a non-salary package worth over £2,000, and a focus on making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people with special educational needs, this role provides a unique opportunity to contribute to a thriving community in East London. Join us in shaping the future of our learners while enjoying a collaborative culture that prioritises high standards and personal well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) in Slough
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to research Phoenix College thoroughly before your interview. Understand their values, the programmes they offer, and their approach to supporting learners with special educational needs. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask during your interview. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the college is the right fit for you. Think about what you want to know regarding their approach to inclusivity and how they support staff development.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former staff members if possible. They can provide insider insights into the college culture and expectations. Plus, it’s a great way to get your name out there and show your commitment to joining the team at Phoenix College.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity can leave a lasting impression. It shows professionalism and reinforces your interest in the SENCo role at Phoenix College.
We think you need these skills to ace SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, make sure to read through the job description thoroughly. We want to see that you understand what we're looking for in a SENCo and how your experience aligns with our needs.
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting young people with autism and complex needs shine through. We love to see candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in our learners' lives.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experiences and skills that match the role. We appreciate when applicants take the time to connect their background to what we do at Phoenix College.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only accept applications via our website. So, make sure to submit your application there. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your journey with us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Phoenix College London
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the role of a SENCo and the specific needs of learners with autism and complex needs. Familiarise yourself with Phoenix College's programmes and values, so you can demonstrate how your experience aligns with their mission.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your passion for supporting young people shine through. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your commitment to making a difference in the lives of learners with high needs. This will help you connect with the interviewers on a deeper level.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and adaptability. Think about past situations where you had to be flexible and responsive to change, and prepare to discuss how you handled them effectively.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the college’s approach to inclusivity and support for staff development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if Phoenix College is the right fit for you.