At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop SEND provision, ensuring high-quality education for students with special needs.
- Company: Inclusive secondary academy in East London, part of a forward-thinking multi-academy trust.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on students' lives in a diverse and ambitious school.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and experience in supporting students with SEND required.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a strong commitment to staff wellbeing and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Location: Redbridge
Salary: M1 - UPS 3 + TLR 2C
Start Date: April 2026
Smart Teachers is working in partnership with a large, inclusive secondary academy in East London to recruit a dedicated and experienced SENCO to lead and develop SEND provision across the school. This is an exciting opportunity for a qualified teacher and SENCO who is passionate about inclusion and committed to improving outcomes for students with special educational needs and disabilities.
About the Role
The SENCO will have strategic and operational responsibility for SEND provision across the school, ensuring that students with SEND receive high-quality, inclusive education and are supported to make strong progress. The role involves leading SEND practice, managing statutory processes, supporting staff with inclusive teaching strategies, and working closely with senior leaders, families, and external agencies. The SENCO will also contribute to wholeâschool improvement and promote a culture of high expectations for all learners. This role includes leadership responsibility and offers the opportunity to make a significant impact within a supportive and ambitious school environment.
About The School
The school is a mixed 11-16 secondary academy serving a diverse community in East London and is part of a forwardâthinking multiâacademy trust. It is a rapidly improving school with strong leadership, clear systems, and a shared commitment to excellence and inclusion. The school has a higherâthanâaverage proportion of students with SEND and places a strong emphasis on early identification, inclusive practice, and collaboration with external agencies. Annually resourced provision supports students with EHCPs for autism spectrum conditions and social communication needs, focusing on independence, preparation for adulthood, and academic achievement. Staff benefit from a collaborative culture, trustâwide professional development, and a clear focus on staff wellbeing.
Requirements
- Hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- Be a qualified SENCO (or willing to complete the NASENCO qualification)
- Have experience supporting students with a wide range of SEND
- Demonstrate strong leadership, organisation, and communication skills
- Be committed to inclusive education and high expectations for all students
- Be confident working with families, external agencies, and senior leaders
A supportive senior leadership team and trustâwide SEND collaboration. Clear systems and structures to support SEND leadership. A strong commitment to professional development. An inclusive, valuesâdriven school culture. The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students' lives.
What the school offer
Safeguarding: Smart Teachers is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will be subject to enhanced DBS checks, references, and relevant safeguarding checks in line with statutory guidance.
To apply for this exciting opportunity, please submit your CV via this post or contact Smart Teachers directly.
SENCO in London employer: Smart Teachers
Contact Detail:
Smart Teachers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice đ¤Ť
We think this is how you could land SENCO in London
â¨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEND. They might know about opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
â¨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the schoolâs approach to inclusion and SEND. Show them youâre not just passionate but also knowledgeable about their specific needs and how you can contribute.
â¨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions for SENCO roles. Think about your leadership style and how youâve successfully supported students with SEND in the past.
â¨Tip Number 4
Donât forget to apply through our website! Itâs the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and youâre considered for this fantastic opportunity.
We think you need these skills to ace SENCO in London
Some tips for your application đŤĄ
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the SENCO role. Highlight your qualifications, especially your QTS and any SENCO experience, to show us youâre the right fit for our inclusive school.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for inclusive education and how you plan to improve outcomes for students with SEND. We want to see your personality and commitment come through!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a SENCO, leadership is key. In your application, give examples of how you've led SEND initiatives or supported staff in inclusive practices. We love to see candidates who can inspire and drive change!
Apply Through Our Website: Donât forget to submit your application through our website! Itâs the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures youâre considered for this exciting opportunity. We canât wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Smart Teachers
â¨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest strategies and legislation around special educational needs and disabilities. Be ready to discuss how you've implemented inclusive practices in your previous roles, as this will show your passion and commitment to improving outcomes for students with SEND.
â¨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a SENCO, you'll be leading SEND provision, so it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership experience. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or initiatives in the past, particularly those that involved collaboration with staff, families, and external agencies.
â¨Engage with the School's Vision
Research the schoolâs ethos and values before the interview. Be ready to discuss how your personal philosophy aligns with their commitment to inclusion and high expectations for all learners. This shows that you're not just looking for any job, but that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their community.
â¨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so think of insightful questions to ask about the school's approach to SEND and professional development opportunities. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.