At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop SEN provision for students with SEMH needs in a new specialist school.
- Company: Exciting new specialist SEMH school opening in Autumn 2026.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, ongoing professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to inclusive education and student wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on students' lives and shape a new SEN provision from the ground up.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and a recognised SENCO qualification (or willingness to complete).
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
SENCO – Specialist SEMH School
Permanent | Full-Time
Location: We are working with a brand-new specialist school opening in Autumn 2026. This setting will provide a nurturing, inclusive and ambitious environment for children and young people aged 5–19 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
With a small cohort and a strong emphasis on wellbeing, the school is designed to be a safe, enriching and aspirational place where every learner is supported to thrive.
We are now seeking a dedicated and experienced SENCO to lead and develop provision for pupils with complex and special educational needs. This is a rare opportunity to help shape a SEN provision from the outset within a specialist SEMH environment, working closely with staff, families and external professionals to ensure every student reaches their full potential.
As SENCO, you will play a central role in delivering high-quality, inclusive education across the school. You will lead statutory processes, support staff development and ensure SEN provision meets both regulatory requirements and best practice.
- Promoting an inclusive, whole-school approach to SEN
- Leading Annual Reviews and managing EHCP processes
- Liaising with local authority coordinators and external professionals
- Supporting and advising teaching staff with specialist strategies
- Monitoring the quality of SEN teaching and learning
- Overseeing assessment, data tracking and reporting
- Delivering CPD and INSET focused on SEN best practice
- Contributing to strategic planning and whole-school improvement
Qualifications:
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and PGCE (or equivalent)
- A recognised SENCO qualification (or willingness to complete within 3 years)
- Experience supporting pupils with SEN, ideally in a specialist or SEMH setting
- Strong knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and safeguarding
- Excellent communication, leadership and organisation skills
- A collaborative, creative and child-centred approach
This is an exciting opportunity to make a lasting impact and help develop a specialist SEN provision from the very beginning.
Upper Pay Scale roles will include clearly defined whole-school responsibilities following induction. Ongoing CPD and structured performance management will be provided.
Successful applicants are subject to enhanced safeguarding checks, including an enhanced DBS. The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and is an equal opportunities employer.
Please note: shortlisted candidates may be subject to an online search as part of safer recruitment practices.
If you’re an experienced SENCO, we want to hear from you - apply today! All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with 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 all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
Senior School SENCO in Market Harborough employer: Teaching Personnel
Contact Detail:
Teaching Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior School SENCO in Market Harborough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEN. They might know about opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on the SEND Code of Practice and recent developments in SEMH education. We want you to showcase your expertise and passion during those crucial conversations!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on schools that align with your values and vision for inclusive education. Check out our website for roles that resonate with your experience and aspirations.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. It shows you’re genuinely interested and professional, which is key in the education field.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior School SENCO in Market Harborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the SENCO role. Highlight your experience with SEMH needs and how you can contribute to creating an inclusive environment. We want to see how your skills align with our mission!
Showcase Your Qualifications: Don’t forget to mention your QTS, PGCE, and any SENCO qualifications. If you're willing to complete a SENCO qualification within three years, let us know! We value commitment to professional development.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your experiences and achievements. We appreciate clarity as much as we appreciate creativity!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Teaching Personnel
✨Know Your SENCO Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the SEND Code of Practice and any recent changes in legislation. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just qualified, but also genuinely passionate about supporting students with special educational needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led teams or initiatives in the past, especially in a SEN context. Think about times when you've supported staff development or improved teaching strategies. This will demonstrate your capability to lead and inspire others in the new role.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Be ready to talk about your experience working with families, external professionals, and local authorities. Highlight specific instances where collaboration has led to positive outcomes for students. This is crucial in a specialist SEMH environment.
✨Bring Your Vision
Think about what you want to achieve in this new role and how you can contribute to shaping the SEN provision from the ground up. Share your ideas during the interview to show that you're forward-thinking and committed to creating an inclusive environment.