SENCO Lead - Alternative Provision - Northamptonshire

We are seeking an experienced and proactive SENCO Lead to establish and lead the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) function within our new independent alternative provision school.

This is a key role with both strategic and operational responsibility for SEND provision, EHCP management, inclusion and learner outcomes. The successful candidate will play a central role in developing systems, embedding best practice and supporting high-quality provision for young people with additional needs.

Alongside SENCO responsibilities, the postholder will contribute to teaching through targeted intervention and small group delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & SEND Provision

• Lead and develop SEND provision across the school

• Establish and embed effective SEND systems, policies and processes

• Promote inclusive practice and support whole-school improvement

• Contribute to school readiness for inspection and compliance

EHCP & Multi-Agency Working

• Manage and review Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)

• Ensure compliance with the SEND Code of Practice

• Liaise effectively with local authorities, families and external professionals

• Coordinate assessments, reviews and multi-agency meetings

Teaching, Learning & Inclusion

• Support staff with differentiation, reasonable adjustments and SEMH approaches

• Deliver small group and targeted teaching sessions

• Promote positive learner engagement, wellbeing and outcomes

Quality & Compliance

• Maintain accurate SEND records and reporting processes

• Monitor provision and evaluate impact on learner outcomes

• Support policy development and quality assurance activity

Person Specification

Essential

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent

• National Award for SEN Coordination (NASENCO), or willingness to complete

• Previous SENCO experience

• Strong knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and EHCP processes

• Experience supporting learners with SEMH and additional needs

• Strong communication and organisational skills

Desirable

• Experience within alternative provision, PRU or specialist settings

• Experience developing SEND systems within a new provision

• Team Teach or equivalent training

Benefits

• £33,000–£36,000 full salary (not pro rata)

• 52-week contract with protected time outside term for EHCP work and development

• Monday to Friday, 9:00am–5:00pm

• Training and CPD opportunities

• Support to complete NASENCO qualification where required

• Opportunity to shape and influence provision from the beginning

Safeguarding & Pre-Employment Checks

The successful candidate will be subject to pre-employment checks including an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references