At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire inclusive practices for children with additional needs in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join the Bows and Arrows Group, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to children's outcomes.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, supportive team, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with strong community support and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working outdoors and fostering curiosity.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification and SENDCo qualification required.
The predicted salary is between 29000 - 30000 € per year.
Are you a passionate SEND educator ready to lead, inspire, and make a lasting difference? We are looking for a dedicated and experienced SENDCo to join our nurturing and forward‑thinking team at Oak Wood Nursery and Forest School, where children thrive through curiosity, inclusion, and connection with the outdoors. As part of the Bows and Arrows Group, a not‑for‑profit organisation with seven nurseries across Ipswich, everything we do is driven by one goal: achieving the very best outcomes for our children and families. Every investment goes straight back into our settings, our people, and our provision.
About the role
Reporting to the Nursery Manager, you will lead and champion inclusive practice across both our nursery provision (under 3s) and Forest School provision (ages 3–4). You will play a vital role in identifying and supporting children with additional needs, ensuring early intervention and tailored support that enables every child to flourish. This is a highly rewarding role where you will work closely with families, educators, our onsite family support practitioner and external professionals—building strong partnerships and creating a truly inclusive environment.
Key responsibilities
- Lead and coordinate high‑quality SEND provision across the nursery and Forest School
- Identify additional needs early and implement effective, child‑centred interventions
- Prepare and manage accurate, high‑quality documentation, including SEND support plans, referrals, funding applications, and EHCP requests
- Liaise confidently with the Local Authority and external agencies to ensure compliance and best practice
- Ensure all SEND provision is engaging, purposeful, and supports clear developmental progress
- Monitor, evaluate, and continuously improve SEND strategies across the setting
- Support and develop staff through coaching, mentoring, and modelling outstanding practice
- Build strong, supportive relationships with parents and carers, maintaining open and consistent communication
- Stay up to date with SEND legislation and best practice, sharing knowledge with the wider team
Essential requirements
- Strong knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and Early Years frameworks
- Proven experience managing SEND processes and documentation (support plans, referrals, EHCPs, funding applications)
- Excellent communication, organisation, and interpersonal skills
What we are looking for
- Passionate advocate for inclusive early years education
- Confident leader who can inspire and influence practice
- Proactive, organised professional who takes initiative
- Supportive team player committed to continuous improvement
You will need
- A full and relevant Level 3 qualification in Early Years (not Health and Social Care)
- A SENDCo qualification
For further details, please call Shannon Page on 01473 599038. For further information, please visit our website. To request an application form, please email a completed CV to shannon.page@bowsandarrowsgroup.co.uk. Completed application to be emailed to shannon.page@bowsandarrowsgroup.co.uk. Closing date: 1pm, 8 June 2026. Interview date: 18 May 2026 and 26 May 2026.
SENDCo in Ipswich employer: Suffolk County Council
At Bows and Arrows Group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for both our staff and the children we serve. Located in Ipswich, our not-for-profit organisation invests directly back into our nurseries, ensuring that our team has access to continuous professional development and support, while also promoting a strong work-life balance. Join us at Oak Wood Nursery and Forest School, where your passion for SEND education will be valued, and you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SENDCo in Ipswich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those involved with SEND. They might know about opportunities that aren't advertised yet or can give you a heads-up on what to expect in interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching the Bows and Arrows Group. Understand their values and how they approach inclusive education. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common SENDCo interview questions. Think about your experiences with early intervention and how you've supported children with additional needs. Being able to share specific examples will make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace SENDCo in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for SEND education shine through in your application. We want to see how you can inspire and lead others, so share your experiences and what drives you to make a difference in children's lives.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant qualifications and experience in SEND. We’re looking for specific examples of how you've managed SEND processes and documentation, so don’t hold back on those details!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so use bullet points where possible to make your skills and experiences easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, so don’t forget to check it out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk County Council
✨Know Your SEND Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the SEND Code of Practice and Early Years frameworks. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the theory, but that you can apply it in practice.
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Think of specific instances where you've successfully identified and supported children with additional needs. Sharing these stories during your interview will demonstrate your hands-on experience and passion for inclusive education.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a SENDCo, you'll need to liaise with parents, educators, and external professionals. Be ready to discuss how you've built strong relationships in the past and how you plan to maintain open communication in this role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the nursery's approach to SEND provision and how they support their staff. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
