At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead SEND provision and support inclusive strategies in a vibrant secondary school.
- Company: Welcoming secondary school in Ilford, committed to genuine inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive leadership, and excellent professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team focused on kindness and high expectations.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives by championing inclusion and wellbeing.
- Qualifications: QTS and National Award for SEN Coordination preferred; experience in secondary education required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Ilford, East London
Competitive salary, dependent on experience
Full-time | Permanent
Start date: September 2026 (or sooner for the right person)
Ready to lead SEND provision in a school where inclusion isn’t just a buzzword on a PowerPoint slide? We’re working with a welcoming and ambitious secondary school in Ilford looking for a passionate SENCO to join their leadership team. This is a brilliant opportunity for someone who knows that great SEND support can completely change a young person’s school experience, and who wants the time, backing, and trust to do the job properly.
The school is well-led, community-focused, and genuinely committed to creating an environment where every pupil feels seen, supported, and able to thrive. You’ll be joining a team that believes inclusion belongs in every classroom, not tucked away in a policy document.
What you’ll be doing:
- Leading and developing the school’s SEND provision across KS3 and KS4
- Supporting teachers with inclusive classroom strategies and interventions
- Working closely with families, external agencies, and pastoral teams
- Managing EHCP processes, reviews, and SEND documentation
- Championing pupil wellbeing, progress, and accessibility across the school
- Helping shape a positive, inclusive culture where students can flourish
The school is looking for someone who:
- Holds QTS and the National Award for SEN Coordination (or is willing to complete it)
- Has experience working within a secondary school setting
- Understands the challenges and rewards of supporting pupils with additional needs
- Communicates clearly and compassionately with staff, pupils, and parents
- Can balance strategic leadership with hands-on support
- Brings calm, confidence, and a good sense of humour to busy school days
What’s on offer:
- Supportive SLT who genuinely value SEND provision
- Opportunities for further leadership development
- A collaborative staff team that shares ideas and supports one another
- Excellent CPD and training opportunities
- A school culture built on kindness, consistency, and high expectations
Why work with Protocol Education?
- We know changing roles is a big move, especially when you’re already spinning more plates than the school canteen at lunchtime. That’s why we keep things simple, supportive, and honest from day one.
- Weekly pay through PAYE, no umbrella companies
- FREE access to our online CPD Academy
- Personalised support from a dedicated consultant
- Opportunities in mainstream, SEND, and alternative settings
- Streamlined registration and local opportunities
- Referral scheme, earn rewards for referring friends
Interested? Apply now or get in touch to find out more about this fantastic SENCO opportunity in Ilford.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQs on the Protocol Education website for further details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
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’, this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
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. For details of our privacy policy, please see visit the Protocol Education website.
Senior SENCO – Lead Inclusive SEND in Secondary School in Ilford employer: Protocol Education Ltd
Join a supportive and community-focused secondary school in Ilford, where your role as a Senior SENCO will be valued and impactful. With a commitment to genuine inclusion, you'll have the opportunity to lead SEND provision while benefiting from excellent professional development, a collaborative staff culture, and a leadership team that prioritises the wellbeing of both students and staff. This is more than just a job; it's a chance to make a real difference in the lives of young people.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior SENCO – Lead Inclusive SEND in Secondary School in Ilford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who are already working in SEND roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and SEND policies. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely passionate about creating an inclusive environment for all students.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to SEND challenges. We want you to feel confident and ready to showcase your experience and ideas on how to improve SEND provision.
✨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’re here to support you every step of the way!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior SENCO – Lead Inclusive SEND in Secondary School in Ilford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Inclusion:When writing your application, let your passion for inclusive education shine through. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in supporting students with additional needs. We want to see that you truly believe in the power of great SEND support!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to the job description. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with what we're looking for. This shows us that you've done your homework and are genuinely interested in joining our team.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised on our end!
How to prepare for a job interview at Protocol Education Ltd
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest SEND policies and practices. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by secondary school students with additional needs, and be ready to discuss how you can implement effective strategies to support them.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led SEND initiatives in the past. Think about times when you've collaborated with teachers, families, and external agencies to create inclusive environments. This will demonstrate your ability to balance strategic leadership with hands-on support.
✨Communicate with Compassion
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and compassionately. You’ll need to convey complex ideas to staff, pupils, and parents, so being able to communicate effectively is key. Consider role-playing common scenarios to build your confidence.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Inclusion
Be prepared to discuss how you would champion a positive, inclusive culture within the school. Share your vision for making every pupil feel seen and supported, and how you plan to foster an environment where they can thrive.
