SENCO - OUTSTANDING SECONDARY SCHOOL - Newcastle upon Tyne

SENCO – OUTSTANDING SECONDARY SCHOOL – Newcastle upon Tyne

Start Date: As soon as possible
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: Paid to scale

School Information

This Outstanding 11–18 secondary school in Newcastle upon Tyne is known for its exemplary inclusion practices, high expectations, and exceptional outcomes for students with SEND. The school serves a vibrant and diverse community and is celebrated for its commitment to meeting individual needs, removing barriers to learning, and ensuring equity of access for all students.

The school’s SEND department is respected for its strong leadership, excellent communication, and well-structured systems. Staff work collaboratively with pastoral teams, subject teachers, and external agencies to ensure students’ academic, social, and emotional needs are met to the highest standard. Classrooms are calm, purposeful, and supportive, with clear routines and a strong culture of respect.

Senior leadership invests significantly in SEND provision, ensuring that the department is well-resourced, well-staffed, and able to deliver high-quality support. The school prides itself on personalised learning, robust intervention pathways, and outstanding professional development opportunities for SEND staff.

The Role

The school is seeking an experienced and passionate SENCO to lead all aspects of SEND provision. This is a strategic and operational leadership role requiring deep knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice, strong communication skills, and the ability to drive inclusive teaching across the school.

You will oversee EHCP processes, liaise with external agencies, lead annual reviews, coordinate interventions, and ensure high-quality SEND provision within the classroom. Working closely with SLT, you will contribute to whole-school development, support data analysis, and guide teachers in adapting their practice to meet diverse needs.

The successful candidate will be joining a supportive team with high expectations and shared values. You will have access to excellent CPD, a collaborative professional culture, and opportunities to shape the strategic direction of SEND across the school.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading the SEND department and managing the SEN support team
• Overseeing EHCPs, annual reviews, referrals, and individual learning plans
• Advising teachers on effective differentiation and inclusive practice
• Coordinating interventions, assessing impact, and adapting provision where needed
• Maintaining strong relationships with parents, carers, and external agencies
• Leading the identification and assessment of SEND needs across the school
• Using data to track progress of SEND learners
• Ensuring compliance with the SEND Code of Practice
• Contributing to safeguarding and wellbeing
• Leading CPD for teaching and support staff
• Supporting transition processes into KS3 and beyond
• Ensuring SEND documentation is accurate and up to date

Person Specification

• National SENCO Award (or working towards)
• Strong experience supporting SEND pupils across secondary settings
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• Deep knowledge of SEND legislation and inclusive teaching strategies
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff at all levels
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
• Commitment to pupil welfare and educational equity

Application

To apply, please send your CV as soon as possible.