Assistant Head (SEND & Inclusion) / SENCO

Assistant Head (SEND & Inclusion) / SENCO Opportunity - Outer London (Croydon)

Salary: £55,881 - £62,677 (dependent on experience)
Start Date: September 2026 Contract: Full-Time, Permanent
Immediate interviews available

Are you an experienced SENCO ready to make a wider strategic impact? Or an ambitious SENCO looking to take the next step into senior leadership with whole-school influence?

A highly regarded and forward-thinking primary school in Outer London (Croydon) is seeking a passionate and skilled SENCO, with the opportunity to take on additional responsibilities as an Assistant Headteacher for SEND and Inclusion.

This is a non-class-based role, offering the successful candidate the capacity to lead, innovate, and drive excellence in inclusive practice across the entire school.

About the Role

This is a pivotal leadership position focused on ensuring that every pupil-regardless of need-receives a high-quality, inclusive education. The successful candidate will play a central role in shaping the school's SEND and inclusion strategy, working closely with senior leaders, staff, families, and external agencies.

Key Responsibilities

As SENCO:

• Lead and manage the provision for pupils with SEND across the school

• Ensure full compliance with the SEND Code of Practice

• Oversee identification, assessment, and monitoring of SEND pupils

• Work collaboratively with teachers to adapt and enhance classroom practice

• Liaise effectively with parents, carers, and external professionals

As Assistant Head (SEND & Inclusion):

• Contribute to whole-school strategic leadership and school improvement planning

• Champion inclusive teaching and learning practices across all year groups

• Lead on staff training and professional development related to SEND and inclusion

• Use data to evaluate impact and drive improvements in outcomes for vulnerable groups

• Promote a culture of high expectations, equity, and belonging for all pupils

• Support safeguarding, behaviour, and pastoral systems through an inclusive lens

• Deputise for senior leaders where appropriate

The Ideal Candidate Will:

• Hold the National Award for SEN Coordination (NASENCO) (essential)

• Have proven experience as a SENCO within a primary school setting

• Demonstrate strong leadership potential or existing leadership experience

• Be deeply committed to inclusive education and improving outcomes for all pupils

• Possess excellent communication, organisation, and strategic thinking skills

Why Apply?

• Opportunity to step into senior leadership or further develop your leadership career

• A supportive, collaborative staff team and leadership structure

• A school with a strong commitment to inclusion and pupil wellbeing

• The chance to shape and influence whole-school practice at a strategic level

If you are a dedicated SENCO ready for a new challenge-or the next step in your leadership journey-this is an exciting opportunity to make a lasting impact.

Apply now to be part of a school where inclusion is at the heart of everything.