Join Bitterne Park School as our Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo)
Are you an experienced and passionate educator committed to supporting students with special educational needs? Bitterne Park School is seeking a dedicated SENCo to lead and shape our inclusive provision, ensuring that all students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
About the Role
As SENCo, you will play a vital role in identifying and addressing the needs of our students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Working collaboratively with teachers, support staff, parents, and external agencies, you will ensure that every student receives the support and resources they need to succeed.
Overall Purpose
At Bitterne Park School, we are committed to supporting the diverse needs of all our students. Under the strategic direction of the Assistant Headteacher (AHT) for Inclusion, the SENCo will:
* Ensure that the needs of all learners are met, in line with our inclusive school culture.
* Develop and oversee the day-to-day implementation of the school's SEND strategy and policy.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
* Lead the strategic, operational, and legal direction of SEND provision.
* Monitor the effectiveness of the Inclusion Department and make adjustments as necessary.
* Meet all statutory and legal obligations for pupils with SEND, including writing EHCPs for students with complex needs.
* Promote the ethos and culture that supports the school’s SEND policy and ensures good outcomes for pupils.
Provision and Coordination
* Maintain an accurate SEND register and follow the graduated approach to SEND.
* Coordinate and implement interventions, monitoring their effectiveness.
* Analyse assessment data for pupils with SEND and use it to inform support plans.
* Ensure effective communication with staff, parents, and external agencies, including the local authority.
Support and Collaboration
* Advise and support colleagues on SEND best practices, interventions, and strategies.
* Work closely with teachers, parents, and external agencies to develop and monitor individual support/learning plans.
* Be a key point of contact for external agencies, including the local authority, and support smooth transitions for SEND pupils.
Leadership and Staff Development
* Line manage and motivate highly trained support staff, including conducting appraisals.
* Identify and address training needs for colleagues, supporting CPD opportunities.
* Support key transition points for students, ensuring all relevant information is shared.
Safeguarding
* Collaborate with the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) on safeguarding matters, recognising the additional vulnerabilities of pupils with SEND.
Perks of the Role
* The opportunity to lead and shape the SEND provision at Bitterne Park School.
* A supportive and collaborative work environment focused on professional development.
* Competitive salary and benefits package.
* The chance to make a significant impact on the lives of students with special educational needs.
Why Join Bitterne Park School?
We believe in fostering an inclusive, student-centred culture that values every individual. As SENCo, you will have the opportunity to work with a dedicated team, committed to excellence in education and student outcomes.
If you are an experienced and passionate educator ready to make a difference, apply now to become our SENCo. We also encourage prospective applicants to visit the school and experience our community firsthand before applying.
Join us in creating a school where every student thrives.
Requirements
Qualifications & Training
* Degree (essential)
* Qualified Teacher Status (essential)
* National Award for SEN Co-ordination or equivalent, e.g., NPQ (desirable)
* Willingness to complete the NPQ SENCo within three years of appointment (essential)
Experience
* Experience teaching and supporting pupils with SEND (essential)
* Familiarity with Key Stages beyond KS3/KS4, such as Primary or Post-16 (desirable)
* Proficiency in identifying, monitoring, and providing support for students with SEN (essential)
* Knowledge of access arrangements for external exams (desirable)
Skills and Knowledge
* Solid understanding of relevant legislation, especially the SEN Code of Practice (essential)
* Insight into effective “quality first” teaching and intervention strategies (essential)
* Competency in planning and evaluating interventions (essential)
* Skills in data analysis and using data to inform planning (essential)
Personal Qualities
* Commitment to equal opportunities and positive outcomes for all pupils, aligned with the ethos and values of Bitterne Park School (essential)
* A genuine passion and belief in each student’s potential (essential)
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills (essential)
* Ability to build effective working relationships (essential)
Benefits
* Private Healthcare Options for you & your family*
* On-site Gym & Personal Training Sessions
* Enhanced Maternity, Paternity, Shared Parental & Adoption Leave
* Electric Car Scheme
* Self Directed CPD fund
* Charity Giving
* Cycle to Work scheme