At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop SEND provision, ensuring every child feels supported and inspired.
- Company: St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, a nurturing community focused on every child's success.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive staff team, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a caring community where you can truly make an impact.
- Why this job: Make a lasting difference in children's lives and champion inclusion in education.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of SEND practice and ability to inspire and support colleagues.
The predicted salary is between 32916 - 51048 £ per year.
Salary: M1-6/UPS 1-3 + SEN1 Allowance, FTE £32,916 - £51,048 + SEN1 £2,787
Hours: 0.2 FTE, one day per week - day to be agreed at interview
Permanent, Term time only
Start date: 1st September 2026
Make a difference that lasts - every single day. At St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, there is laughter in the corridors, curiosity in every classroom, and a deep sense that every child matters. Guided by our mission, Together we love, we learn, we live, we are a joyful, ambitious and nurturing community where children are truly at the heart of everything we do. We are proud of who we are - and excited about what comes next. This is more than a role; this is a chance to change lives.
We are seeking a passionate SENCO to help shape a school where every child belongs, thrives and succeeds. You will champion inclusion, ensuring that every child feels seen, supported and inspired to achieve their very best, while being a trusted partner for staff and families alike.
Our values shape daily life. We nurture kindness, resilience and curiosity, and encourage children to grow into confident, compassionate individuals with a strong sense of purpose. Our curriculum is ambitious and thoughtfully designed, preparing children not only for the next stage of education, but for life.
As part of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, we are supported by a wider family of schools committed to helping every child flourish.
The role
You will lead and develop SEND provision across the school with clarity and care. You will support staff to deliver high-quality, adaptive teaching, guide effective interventions, and ensure that pupils with SEND make strong progress. You will use data thoughtfully, champion pupil voice, build strong partnerships with families and external agencies, and help embed inclusive practice across the school. Your work will ensure that every child feels a true sense of belonging and success.
Who we’re looking for
We are looking for someone who believes deeply in the potential of every child and leads with warmth, integrity and determination. You will bring strong knowledge of SEND practice, the ability to inspire and support colleagues, and the confidence to build positive relationships with children, staff and families. You will be organised, resilient and committed to high expectations for all.
What we offer
A caring and committed staff team, children who love learning, and a strong and supportive Catholic Trust community. You will have opportunities to collaborate, develop and grow within a school that truly feels like family - and where you can make a lasting difference.
Find out more
You are warmly invited to visit St Mary’s Catholic Primary School and experience our community for yourself. To arrange a visit or for more information, please call 01249 460231 / 653469 or email office@sm.thedcet.com.
Closing date: 9am, Friday 19th June 2026
Interview date: TBC, week commencing 22nd June 2026
Please note applications may be reviewed on receipt and we may close the role early. The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, this role involves directly working with children and significant contact with children, and therefore we expect all staff and volunteers to share the same commitment.
Please ensure a full work history is completed in your application form including any gaps of employment. Applicants will be required to complete satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check for this post prior to commencement. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974. The Trust is an equal opportunities employer.
If successfully shortlisted the HR Department will also be conducting an individual online search including social media platforms of your ‘name, education and employment’, to demonstrate due diligence following ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ guidance. The search will not form part of the actual shortlisting process and any concerns arising from the search will be discussed directly with you.
SENCO in Chippenham employer: St Mary's Catholic Primary School
At St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, we pride ourselves on being a nurturing and inclusive community where every child is valued and supported. As a SENCO, you will join a dedicated team that fosters a culture of kindness and resilience, providing you with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration within the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust. With a focus on making a lasting impact in the lives of our students, this role offers a unique chance to be part of a joyful environment that truly feels like family.
Contact Details:
St Mary's Catholic Primary School Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SENCO in Chippenham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take some time to research St Mary’s Catholic Primary School. Familiarise yourself with their values and mission. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to SEND and inclusion. Think about specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your ability to support children with diverse needs. We want to hear your passion and expertise!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your personality! During the interview, let your warmth and integrity shine through. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can build positive relationships with staff, families, and children. Be yourself and let them see how you can fit into their nurturing environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation for the opportunity and reinforces your interest in the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace SENCO in Chippenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting children with SEND shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives and how you can inspire others to do the same.
Be Specific About Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in SEND provision. We love seeing concrete examples of how you've supported children and worked with families, so don’t hold back on sharing those success stories!
Tailor Your Application:Take the time to tailor your application to our school’s values and mission. We’re all about nurturing kindness and resilience, so reflect that in your writing and show us how you embody these qualities.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our community and what we stand for.
How to prepare for a job interview at St Mary's Catholic Primary School
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) practices. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used in the past to support children with diverse needs, as well as how you plan to champion inclusion at St Mary’s.
✨Show Your Passion for Inclusion
During the interview, let your passion for helping every child thrive shine through. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your commitment to creating an inclusive environment where all children feel valued and supported.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Think of insightful questions to ask the interviewers about their approach to SEND provision and how they foster a nurturing community. This shows you're genuinely interested in their values and mission, and it gives you a chance to assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Spirit
Be ready to discuss how you’ve worked with staff, families, and external agencies in the past. Highlight your ability to build strong partnerships and how you can support colleagues in delivering high-quality, adaptive teaching for all students.
