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- Tasks: Lead SEND provision and support pupils' social, emotional, and mental health needs.
- Company: Join a small SEMH school that truly values relationships and individual progress.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, ongoing CPD, supportive team, and small class sizes.
- Other info: Driving licence required; safeguarding checks are mandatory.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while growing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and experience in a SENDCo role.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
SENCo at a Small SEMH School – Join a School That Truly Gets It
Looking for a role where you can lead, shape, and genuinely make a difference? This could be the one. At Protocol Education, we’re working with a specialist setting to find an experienced and qualified SENCo to support pupils across Key Stages 4 and 5. This is more than a coordination role; you’ll be a key part of the leadership team, helping to drive the school’s vision forward and ensuring every pupil gets the support they deserve.
You’ll take the lead on SEND provision, guiding high-quality teaching and interventions, making the most of resources, and keeping standards high for both pupils and their families. It’s a role for someone who’s forward-thinking, motivated, and ready to roll up their sleeves.
What you’ll be doing:
- Leading SEND provision across Years 9–12
- Supporting whole-school development plans and strategy
- Line managing staff and working closely with leadership
- Collaborating with therapeutic teams to support pupil outcomes
- Meeting and assessing prospective pupils through local authority referrals
This setting supports pupils with EHCPs, primarily focused on social, emotional and mental health needs. You’ll be working in a close-knit environment where relationships matter and every small win counts.
What we’re looking for:
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) – essential
- Proven experience in a SENDCo or similar leadership role
- Strong understanding of SEND, particularly SEMH needs
- A collaborative, proactive approach and confident leadership style
What’s in it for you:
- A genuinely supportive and collaborative team
- Small class sizes, with a focus on individual progress
- Opportunities to grow your skills through ongoing CPD
- A working environment that values balance, because supporting pupils starts with supporting staff
- Pension scheme
- Competitive pay, based on experience and qualifications
A quick heads up: This role may involve working across more than one site, so a driving licence and access to a car will be important. Safeguarding matters here. Always. This role is subject to robust safeguarding and compliance checks, including references, DBS, right to work, and qualification verification. All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role.
Protocol Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with the DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’. We offer free online safeguarding and Prevent Duty training to all our workers. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and subscribe to the DBS Update Service. Full assistance provided.
SENCO needed immediately! in Essex employer: Protocol Education Ltd
Contact Detail:
Protocol Education Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SENCO needed immediately! in Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEMH needs. They might know of openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and values. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you genuinely care about their mission and how you can contribute to it.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your leadership skills. Think of examples where you've successfully led SEND initiatives or collaborated with teams to improve pupil outcomes. This is your chance to shine!
✨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, we love seeing passionate candidates like you!
We think you need these skills to ace SENCO needed immediately! in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in SEND and SEMH. We want to see how your skills align with our vision and the specific needs of the role.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a SENCo, you'll be part of the leadership team, so don’t shy away from sharing examples of your leadership experience. We love to see proactive approaches and how you've made a difference in previous roles.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who’s genuinely passionate about supporting pupils and can connect with our close-knit environment. Be yourself!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Protocol Education Ltd
✨Know Your SEND Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), especially focusing on social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs. Be prepared to discuss specific strategies you've implemented in the past and how they positively impacted pupils.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a SENCo, you'll be part of the leadership team, so it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership style during the interview. Share examples of how you've successfully led teams or initiatives, and highlight your collaborative approach to working with staff and therapeutic teams.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenging situations. Think about real-life examples where you've had to adapt your approach to meet the needs of pupils with EHCPs and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Safeguarding
Safeguarding is a top priority, so be prepared to discuss your understanding of safeguarding policies and practices. Share any relevant training you've completed and how you ensure a safe environment for all pupils, demonstrating that you take this responsibility seriously.