SENDCO

• To take overall leadership of SEND provision within the school, including:
  • Collaborating with the Principal, senior leadership team, and the governing body to determine the strategic development of SEND policy and provision.
  • Managing the day-to-day implementation of SEND policy, coordinating specific provision for pupils with SEND, including those with EHC (Education, Health, and Care) plans.
  • Providing professional guidance to colleagues and working closely with staff, parents, and external agencies to support students.
  • Members of staff are expected to teach and so there is a teaching commitment with this role

Reporting Structure

• The SENDCO will report to the SLT link on all matters related to SEND.
• The SENDCO is expected to collaborate with colleagues at a professional level, promoting mutual understanding of the Trust’s vision and values.
• The role requires networking and liaising with external providers, schools, community networks, and coordinators to ensure consistency in standards, support, transition, and high-quality teaching and learning.

Key Responsibilities
The SENDCO will be responsible for the following:

• Overseeing the day-to-day operation and implementation of the school’s SEND policy.
• Coordinating SEND provision for students, including line management of SEND staff.
• Collaborating with the Designated Teacher to support looked-after children with SEND.
• Advising on the graduated approach to providing SEND support across the school.
• Advising on the deployment of the school’s delegated SEND budget and resources to meet student needs effectively.
• Engaging with parents of pupils with SEND to ensure clear communication and support.
• Liaising with early years providers, other schools, educational psychologists, health and social care professionals, and independent or voluntary organisations.
• Acting as the main contact for external agencies, particularly the local authority and its support services.
• Ensuring smooth transitions for students moving between educational settings by liaising with potential next providers.
• Working with the Principal, senior leaders, and governors to ensure the school meets its responsibilities under the Equality Act (2010), particularly regarding reasonable adjustments and access arrangements.
• Maintaining up-to-date records for all pupils with SEND.
• Managing the admissions process for students with statements of special educational needs (SEN), attending meetings and tribunals as required by the Principal.
• Reviewing and preparing policies, procedures, and academy documentation related to SEND, including sections of the SEF (Self-Evaluation Form), SDP (School Development Plan), and census returns.
• Undertaking appropriate training, if necessary, to become a JCQ-accredited access assessor.