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 and shape an inclusive school culture.
- Qualifications: QTS and National Award for SEN Coordination required; experience in secondary education preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
SENCO – Secondary School in 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.
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.
Permanent SENCO Roles in Ilford employer: Protocol Education
Join a supportive and community-focused secondary school in Ilford, where your role as a SENCO will be valued and impactful. With a commitment to inclusion and a collaborative staff culture, you'll have access to excellent professional development opportunities and the backing of a dedicated leadership team. This is an ideal environment for passionate educators looking to make a real difference in the lives of students with additional needs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Permanent SENCO Roles in Ilford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work in SEN roles. They might know about openings before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and SEND provision. Show them you’re not just passionate about inclusion but that you understand their specific challenges and how you can help.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! We’ve got your back with personalised support and resources to help you land that SENCO role. Let’s make it happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Permanent SENCO Roles in Ilford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Inclusion:When writing your application, let your passion for SEND and inclusion shine through. We want to see how you can make a difference in students' lives, so share specific examples of your experience and commitment to creating an inclusive environment.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to the role. Highlight your relevant qualifications, like QTS and the National Award for SEN Coordination, and connect your past experiences to the responsibilities outlined in the job description. This shows us you’re serious about the position!
Be Clear and Compassionate:Use clear and compassionate language in your application. Remember, communication is key in this role, so demonstrate your ability to connect with staff, pupils, and parents through your writing. A friendly tone can go a long way!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right people quickly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our values there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Protocol Education
✨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, or external agencies to create a positive impact on student wellbeing and progress.
✨Communicate with Compassion
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and compassionately. You’ll need to demonstrate your ability to connect with staff, pupils, and parents alike, so consider role-playing common scenarios to build your confidence.
✨Bring Your Sense of Humour
Don’t forget to let your personality shine through! A good sense of humour can go a long way in a busy school environment. Be prepared to share a light-hearted anecdote that reflects your approach to creating an inclusive and supportive atmosphere.
