SENDCo

Lead inclusion. Champion every learner. Make a lasting impact

Job Title: SENDCo (Maternity Cover)
Location: Akeley Wood School, Akeley, Buckingham
Salary: £43,636 per annum
Hours: Monday–Friday | 40 hours per week | 8am–4.30pm
Contract: Fixed Term | Term Time Only
Start Date: ASAP
Full‑time or part‑time applications welcomed

Early applications encouraged - interviews may take place before the closing date.

Akeley Wood, part of the Blenheim family, is a thriving co‑educational independent school set across three beautiful campuses in Buckinghamshire. We welcome pupils from 12 months to 18 years and pride ourselves on strong relationships, exceptional pastoral care and a culture where every child is known, valued and supported to succeed.

With inspiring learning spaces, from specialist classrooms to woodland outdoor areas, Akeley Wood is a place where staff feel trusted, supported and able to make a genuine difference.

We are now seeking an experienced and passionate SENDCo to lead and coordinate SEND provision across our Senior School during a period of maternity leave.

The Role

As SENDCo, you will lead inclusive practice across Years 7–13, ensuring that students with additional needs receive the right support at the right time. Your leadership will shape SEND strategy, staff development and day‑to‑day provision.

Your responsibilities will include:

Strategic Leadership

• Leading the operation of the school’s SEND policy

• Ensuring compliance with the SEND Code of Practice and JCQ regulations

• Maintaining the SEND Information Report and statutory documentation

• Reporting regularly to governors

Identification & Provision

• Overseeing early identification and whole‑school screening

• Monitoring progress and coordinating targeted interventions

• Ensuring accurate SEND records and provision maps

• Deploying LSAs and specialist support effectively

Teaching & Learning

• Supporting teachers to deliver high‑quality, adaptive teaching

• Ensuring curriculum accessibility across KS3, KS4 and KS5

• Overseeing in‑class support and classroom adjustments

Working With Families & Professionals

• Leading multi‑agency work and external referrals

• Building trusting relationships with parents and carers

• Supporting transitions at key points

EHCP & Exam Access Arrangements (Key Leadership Area)

• Chairing Annual Reviews and preparing statutory paperwork

• Leading the full JCQ‑compliant EAA process

• Coordinating specialist assessments and maintaining evidence

• Training staff and communicating decisions clearly to families

Team Leadership

• Line‑managing LSAs

• Providing SEND training and contributing to whole‑school improvement

There may be occasional support required at our Nursery and Junior School.

About You

We’re looking for someone who brings:

• QTS and the NASENCo qualification

• Strong SEND experience and recent CPD

• JCQ EAA training

• Knowledge of specialist SEND areas (ASD, SEMH, Dyslexia etc.)

• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills

• High levels of organisation and resilience

• Warmth, empathy and a belief in every learner’s potential

• Confident use of ICT and data systems

• A commitment to reflective practice and ongoing development

Why Join Akeley Wood Senior School?

You’ll be part of a caring, collaborative and forward‑thinking team that values creativity, innovation and meaningful relationships. You will enjoy:

• A beautiful school environment

• A strong pastoral culture

• Supportive leadership

• Opportunities for professional development

• A culture where staff wellbeing and impact truly matter

Safeguarding Commitment

Akeley Wood School and Blenheim Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and social media screening. We may close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications.