At a Glance
- Tasks: Support SEND pupils to achieve their full potential and develop inclusive strategies.
- Company: Downland School, a caring community special school in Wiltshire.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, free lunch, and supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join us in a positive, diverse environment focused on personal and academic growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while working with a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Commitment to inclusion and experience in supporting SEND pupils.
The predicted salary is between 34434 - 36363 £ per year.
Downland School is a co-educational maintained community special school for pupils aged between 10 and 16 who have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). Our pupils have varying aptitudes and abilities; we are extremely proud of all their achievements and progress. Our pupils have a range of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) including: Autism (ASC); attachment disorders and Social, Emotional Mental Health (SEMH) difficulties. We seek to ensure that, by the time they leave us, our pupils emerge as self-confident individuals able to manage their own learning; equipped with the skills and competencies to successfully take the next steps in their lives. We are a friendly, happy and caring school, providing a positive, inclusive and enriching educational experience for our young people. We view each of our pupils as unique and shape our provision to meet their individual needs and accelerate their progress in a variety of areas e.g. personal, social, academic and well-being. Our commitment to supporting the whole child and their development is underpinned by our strong pastoral systems and our committed and trained staff. At Downland we promote inclusion and equality and celebrate diversity. We offer staff a breaktime snack, tea or coffee and a free lunch from our kitchen, which cooks on site every day. Our mission statement is Aspire, Achieve and Thrive.
We are now looking to appoint a dedicated and resilient School SEND Lead Worker who is committed to inclusion and who has the desire to maintain the highest standards of provision for SEND pupils. This is an exciting opportunity to join our enthusiastic, dedicated and professional school. The role of School SEND Lead Worker is a highly rewarding one, as you will have the opportunity to support all of our pupils to achieve their full potential whilst benefitting from working with a cohesive and supportive staff team. You will fully participate in developing SEND provision across the whole school. You will have a strong commitment to the wider pastoral role and wish to make a significant positive impact on our young people's lives, securing the very best outcomes for all pupils.
Key areas of work will include:
- Be a point of regular and consistent contact for pupils with SEND and their families.
- Develop and implement SEND policies and strategies, which reflect the school's commitment to high achievement of all pupils and which identify clear targets, timescales and success criteria in line with the School Development Plan.
- Facilitate a well-coordinated review process and single holistic person-centred plan that focuses on the child or young person's educational, health and social care needs in line with the Education Act 2011 and other legislation and organisational policy and reviews.
- Ensure that each need identified in the EHCP and associated outcomes in the plan are fully reviewed annually.
- Fully enable young people and their families to express their views within the review and make necessary amendments to plans as circumstances change.
- Be responsible for reviewing and making amendments to EHCPs in agreement with young people, families and other stakeholders.
- Ensure that all statutory timelines are met and follow up that corrections and amendments are implemented.
Enthusiasm and commitment to working with and raising achievement for pupils with SEND is paramount to us; you will be expected to actively demonstrate the school's core values and embrace The Downland Way.
To apply, you should submit a letter addressed to Mrs Keily-Theobald (Headteacher) of no more than 2 sides of A4 with your application form addressing the requirements of the post, as outlined in the Job Description and the Person Specification provided. We are particularly interested in how you would undertake this role at Downland School and about your relevant skills, qualities and experience to date. Applications received without a supporting letter will not be considered and CVs will not be accepted. Please email completed application forms and your covering letter to Tanya Rhodes, Bursar, by 9.00am on Monday 22 June 2026.
We welcome visits to the school. Please contact Tanya Rhodes if you would like to arrange a visit in advance of applying. Alternatively, to apply, please download the application form and click the apply now button below to upload your completed application form and covering letter online. Please note: CV's will not be considered. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by e-mail. If you do not hear from us by Friday 26 June 2026, please assume that your application has not been successful on this occasion.
Closing date (and time): 9.00am 22 June 2026
Interview date: w/b 29 June 2026
Commencement date: 1st September 2026
Downland School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Please note that this appointment is subject to enhanced DBS, medical and reference checks before appointment is confirmed. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Applicants must disclose all spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and warnings that are not protected under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013).
School SEND Lead Worker employer: Wiltshire Council
Downland School is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive work environment where staff are valued and supported. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees have ample opportunities for growth while making a meaningful impact on the lives of students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Located in the heart of Devizes, Wiltshire, our school offers a friendly atmosphere, complimentary meals, and a collaborative team culture that celebrates diversity and promotes well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School SEND Lead Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Downland School's values and mission. When you understand what they stand for, you can tailor your approach during interviews to show how you align with their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff members on LinkedIn or through local education events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about real-life examples of how you've supported SEND pupils in the past. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used to help them thrive.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows you're genuinely interested and leaves a positive impression.
We think you need these skills to ace School SEND Lead Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get Personal with Your Cover Letter:When writing your cover letter, make it personal! Address it to Mrs Keily-Theobald and share why you're passionate about working with SEND pupils. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with our mission at Downland School.
Stick to the Guidelines:Make sure you follow the application guidelines closely. Your letter should be no more than 2 sides of A4 and directly address the requirements in the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our school!
Showcase Your Commitment:We’re looking for someone who’s genuinely committed to inclusion and making a positive impact on our pupils' lives. Use your application to demonstrate your enthusiasm and how you embody our core values at Downland School.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! Upload your completed application form and cover letter online. This helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wiltshire Council
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Familiarise yourself with the specific needs mentioned in the job description, like Autism and SEMH difficulties. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared.
✨Show Your Passion for Inclusion
During the interview, express your commitment to inclusion and how you plan to support pupils with SEND. Share examples from your past experiences where you've made a positive impact on students' lives. This will demonstrate that you align with the school's values and mission.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Think of insightful questions to ask the interviewers about their approach to SEND provision and how they support staff in this role. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Policies
Familiarise yourself with relevant SEND policies and legislation, such as the Education Act 2011. Be prepared to discuss how you would implement these in practice at Downland School. This will highlight your understanding of the role and your readiness to take on the responsibilities.
