At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead SEND support and ensure every pupil reaches their potential.
- Company: Sunninghill School, a nurturing and inspiring educational environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, school fee discounts, and health cash plan.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives and shape their learning journey.
- Qualifications: QTS or equivalent, National SENCo Qualification, and recent teaching experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
We are currently recruiting for a part-time SENCo to join Sunninghill School. This is a great opportunity for someone with a passion for education. We would like to hear from you if you are an experienced SENCo or if you are recently trained in this area. Working 2 days a week, you would be the key lead for the provision of SEND support at Sunninghill School.
The successful SENCo will be passionate about children’s learning and the unique way each child learns. As a specialist, you will be instrumental in the additional support on offer at Sunninghill, ensuring that every pupil is catered for and has access to progressing to fulfil their potential.
Sunninghill Prep School is a thriving co-ed Prep school nestled in the heart of rural Dorset’s county town of Dorchester. The school’s mission is to provide an outstanding, individualised and holistic education in a stimulating learning environment that prepares all pupils for a happy, healthy and fulfilling life.
As the SENCo at Sunninghill School, you will work with the Headteacher and play a vital role in the strategic development of the school's SEND provision and oversight of the day-to-day operation of that policy with the aim of raising SEN pupil achievement. You will be relied upon to put provision in place to ensure that the progress of pupils with SEND improves relative to those without SEND. You must ensure that the school carries out its statutory responsibilities regarding all students with an education, health and care plans (EHCP) and monitor progress towards targets.
You will also support the school in teaching and learning, leading and managing staff, advising teaching assistants, providing regular SEND information to the Headteacher and/or Governing Body when required, coordinating Annual Reviews and/or EHCPs, and chairing when necessary.
We are looking for a well-qualified SENCo. You will need to have QTS or an equivalent qualification and a recognised National SENCo Qualification. Recent experience of teaching and learning across the primary age range and experience of inclusion or SEND is essential.
As well as joining an outstanding team of colleagues at Sunninghill as part of the Inspired Learning Group, you will also benefit from:
- Annual salary review
- Professional development and training opportunities with the prospect of career and salary progression
- School fee discount
- Pension scheme
- Refer a friend scheme up to £750
- Health cash plan covering 10 healthcare benefits and services
- Access to Doctor line from anywhere in the world
- Employee Assistance Programme
A full job description is available on request. Please apply by visiting. Closing date: 31st May 2026. We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the date advertised. Interviews will take place on a rolling basis, as applications are received.
Sunninghill Preparatory School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Applicants must undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. Sunninghill Prep School will conduct online searches of shortlisted candidates as part of a safeguarding check.
SENCO in Dorchester employer: Sunninghill Preparatory School Limited
Sunninghill School is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and supportive environment for educators passionate about making a difference in children's lives. With a commitment to professional development, competitive benefits including a school fee discount and health cash plan, and the opportunity to work in a picturesque rural setting, Sunninghill provides a fulfilling career path for SENCo professionals looking to grow and thrive within a dedicated team.
Contact Detail:
Sunninghill Preparatory School Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SENCO in Dorchester
✨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 position at Sunninghill or elsewhere.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Sunninghill School’s ethos and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their mission. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported SEND students in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with the Headteacher or staff, let your enthusiasm for education and supporting children with SEND shine through. Authenticity goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Sunninghill team. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace SENCO in Dorchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for education shine through! We want to see how much you care about supporting children’s learning and how you can contribute to our nurturing environment at Sunninghill.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience as a SENCo or in SEND support. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and how you’ve made a difference in previous roles. This will help us see why you’re the perfect fit!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Use bullet points if necessary to make your qualifications and experiences stand out!
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 this exciting opportunity at Sunninghill School. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sunninghill Preparatory School Limited
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest SEND policies and practices. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children in a primary setting, as well as the statutory responsibilities that come with the SENCo role. This will show your passion and commitment to supporting every child's learning journey.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience with SEND, whether it's from teaching or coordinating support. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've helped students overcome challenges and achieve their potential. This will demonstrate your capability and understanding of the role.
✨Engage with the School's Mission
Take some time to understand Sunninghill School's mission and values. During the interview, relate your personal educational philosophy to their goals. Showing that you align with their vision for a nurturing and supportive community will make a strong impression.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few insightful questions about the school's approach to SEND and how they envision the SENCo's role evolving. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the school is the right fit for you. Plus, it opens up a dialogue that can highlight your proactive nature.
