SENDCo

Salary: Leadership Spine (L4-12) £55,745 – £67, 896 – 5 point range to be agreed with postholder
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Start Date: 1st September 2026

We are seeking to appoint an experienced, dynamic and solution-focused SENDCo to join the SEND team at Whickham School. This is an exciting opportunity for a committed professional to play a key role in implementing our new SEND strategy and shaping provision across the school.

The SENDCo will report to the Assistant Headteacher (Inclusion) and will:

• Lead the strategic development of SEND policy and provision across the school
• Be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the SEND policy and the coordination of provision for pupils with SEND, ensuring they make strong progress
• Oversee the ARMS provision, supporting pupils with ASD and ensuring high-quality outcomes
• Quality assure SEND provision at all levels across the school
• Provide professional guidance and deliver specialist training to colleagues
• Work closely with staff, parents and external agencies to support pupils effectively
• Ensure statutory requirements within the SEND Code of Practice are met and remain up to date with best practice
• Liaise with external agencies to secure high-quality support and provision

We have recently undertaken a significant restructure of our SEND provision, and the successful candidate will join a forward-thinking, fast-paced and highly supportive environment. We are committed to maintaining high standards of behaviour, engagement and academic achievement for all pupils.

At Whickham School, we value every pupil as an individual, recognising their unique interests, knowledge, skills and needs. We are proud of our inclusive ethos and are committed to increasing participation and achievement for all learners through access to an appropriate and ambitious curriculum.

SEND is a whole-school responsibility. Every teacher is a teacher of every pupil, including those with SEND or additional needs. We work closely with pupils, families and a wide range of professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes.

What makes Whickham School special?

We support work-life balance by offering:

• Reduced teaching hours to support planning and professional development
• Dedicated collaborative planning time (at least one hour per fortnight)
• A flexible and supportive approach to work-life balance
• Access to on-site fitness facilities outside school hours

We invest in your growth:

• Meaningful leadership development opportunities, including opportunities to be seconded to the Leadership Team as an Associate Assistant Headteacher
• Evidence-informed CPD that has a real impact on practice
• Coaching and mentoring to support your development
• Access to internal leadership programmes and external qualifications

The practical benefits:

• Salary sacrifice schemes (including cycle-to-work and electric vehicle leasing)
• Priority admission for your children to our oversubscribed school
• Modern facilities, including up-to-date classroom technology
• A supportive and collaborative staff community

Interested in leading our SEND provision?

We actively encourage visits to the school. To arrange a visit, please contact Rebecca Erskine at rerskine@whickhamschool.org 

Application deadline: 9am on 5th May 2026
Submit applications to: recruitment@whickhamschool.org

Application forms can be downloaded from the Whickham School website, where you will also find the full job description, person specification and further details about the school and role.

Whickham School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE). We expect all staff to share this commitment.

What happens next?

• Download the full job description and person specification
• Visit the school (optional but encouraged)
• Submit your application by 9am on 5th May 2026
• Interviews will be held on Wednesday 13th May 2026 (full day)

For any questions, please contact Rebecca Erskine at rerskine@whickhamschool.org