At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead SEND provision and support pupils' social, emotional, and mental health needs.
- Company: Join a small SEMH school that values relationships and individual progress.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, pension scheme, ongoing CPD, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Driving licence required; role may involve working across multiple sites.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and experience in a SENDCo or similar role.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 44000 £ 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
Additional Information:
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. 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’, which 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.
SENCO needed - qualified or QTS Teacher interested in becoming qualified! employer: Protocol Education Ltd
At Protocol Education, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative environment where every team member is valued. Our small SEMH school focuses on individual progress with small class sizes, ensuring that you can make a real impact on pupils' lives while enjoying opportunities for professional growth through ongoing CPD. With a commitment to work-life balance and a strong emphasis on safeguarding, we create a workplace where you can thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SENCO needed - qualified or QTS Teacher interested in becoming qualified!
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, attend local events, and join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a SENCo role that’s just perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your commitment to supporting pupils with SEMH needs. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Research the school’s ethos and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their vision. Tailor your answers to reflect their values and demonstrate your proactive approach to SEND provision.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can give you a better chance of standing out. Let’s get you that SENCo role!
We think you need these skills to ace SENCO needed - qualified or QTS Teacher interested in becoming qualified!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for SEND:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting pupils with SEND shine through. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in similar roles, especially with SEMH needs. We want to see your commitment to helping every pupil thrive!
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure your CV and cover letter are tailored to the SENCo role. Highlight your QTS and any relevant experience in leadership or SEND provision. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their skills with what we’re looking for!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate well-structured applications that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Protocol Education!
How to prepare for a job interview at Protocol Education Ltd
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), especially around social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used in the past to support pupils with EHCPs and how you can lead SEND provision effectively.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
This role is all about leadership, so think of examples where you've successfully managed a team or led initiatives. Prepare to share how you’ve collaborated with other staff and therapeutic teams to improve pupil outcomes. Highlight your proactive approach and how you motivate others.
✨Understand the School's Vision
Research the school’s ethos and vision before the interview. Be prepared to discuss how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals. Showing that you understand their mission will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This could be about their approach to CPD, how they support staff wellbeing, or specifics about the SEND provision. It shows you're engaged and serious about making a difference in their environment.