Job Description
SENCO (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator)
Derby Grammar School
Full Time | Permanent
Required: September 2026
Derby Grammar School is seeking an outstanding, experienced and dedicated SENCO (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator) to lead and develop our provision for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Derby Grammar School is co-educational independent school that has provided excellent schooling to pupils from Derby and across the County. Our school setting dates back to the 18th century and is surrounded by extensive grounds. Established in 1995, Derby Grammar School is a leading independent school for children aged between 4 and 18. Located in the Derbyshire suburbs of Littleover our secluded grounds provide the perfect setting for a first-class educational experience.
At Derby Grammar School we strive to ‘bring education to life’ and inspire a passion for learning that remains with our pupils throughout their lives. The enthusiasm of our teachers sparks excitement and interest for curious minds. We create an environment where our pupils’ strengths are sought out and celebrated. Our small size enables us to do this; we know and treat each child as an individual.
This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate and highly motivated teacher and leader to play a key role in ensuring that every pupil is supported to achieve their full potential. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership for SEND across the school whilst overseeing the effective day-to-day operation of SEND provision.
Working closely with the Headmaster, teaching staff, parents and external agencies, the SENCO will champion inclusive practice, support high-quality teaching and learning, and ensure that pupils with SEND receive the personalised support they need to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
About the Role
The SENCO will:
Lead the strategic development and implementation of the school's SEND provision.
Monitor and evaluate the progress and achievement of pupils with SEND.
Ensure compliance with statutory responsibilities relating to Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
Support teaching staff in identifying and meeting the needs of pupils with additional learning needs.
Work collaboratively with parents, external professionals and relevant agencies to secure the best outcomes for pupils.
Coordinate SEND interventions and monitor their effectiveness.
Lead annual reviews and maintain accurate SEND records.
Provide professional guidance, training and support to colleagues.
Contribute to wider school improvement and inclusion initiatives.
The Successful Candidate Will Have
Essential
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
Experience of teaching across the primary age range.
Successful experience in a middle or senior leadership position.
Experience of SEND and inclusion provision.
Strong understanding of the SEND Code of Practice and relevant legislation.
Experience analysing pupil progress and attainment data.
Excellent communication, organisational and leadership skills.
A proven track record of raising pupil achievement.
Commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and high educational standards.
Desirable
National Award for SEN Coordination (NASENCO) or willingness to undertake the qualification.
Experience of leading staff training and development.
Experience of coaching and mentoring colleagues.
Subject leadership experience.
Experience working with governors and external agencies.
Our team at Derby Grammar School also benefit from being part of the Inspired Learning Group of schools and Nurseries.
Benefits at Derby Grammar School include;
Competitive Salary, with annual reviews
Discount on school fees for staff children, if appropriate
Free staff car park
Meals for staff whilst at work
Pension scheme
Health plan that provides significant coverage such as optical, dental, dental accident, chiropody, therapy treatments and health club concession. Access to Doctor line from anywhere in the world, scanning such as MRI, CT and PET scan
Employee Assistance Programme.
Westfield rewards (discounts from various high street and online outlets).
Interested individuals should apply at the earliest opportunity, applications should be submitted by following this link - https://applicant.website/i/65A755/vacancy-info/0000001254
Derby Grammar School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children & young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, as all new staff will be subject to enhanced DBS clearance, identity checks, qualification checks and employment checks to include an exploration of any gaps within employment, two satisfactory references and registration with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)