We are seeking a dedicated and experienced SENCo Lead to join our team. The successful candidate will play a key role in leading and coordinating the provision for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) across our nursery. This position offers an excellent opportunity for an individual who is passionate about inclusive early years education and committed to ensuring every child receives the support they need to thrive.
Working closely with the Nursery Manager, practitioners, parents, and external professionals, the SENCo Lead will champion inclusive practice, oversee individual support plans, and ensure high-quality interventions are in place to promote positive outcomes for all children. The role also involves supporting staff development, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring compliance with relevant SEND legislation and the EYFS framework.
Duties
- Lead and coordinate the nursery's SEND provision, ensuring inclusive practice is embedded throughout the setting
- Identify children who may require additional support through observation, assessment, and collaboration with practitioners
- Develop, implement, and regularly review Individual Support Plans (ISPs) and targeted interventions
- Work in partnership with parents and carers, providing guidance, support, and regular updates on children's progress
- Liaise with external agencies and professionals, including Speech and Language Therapists, Educational Psychologists, Health Visitors, and Local Authority SEND teams
- Support practitioners in adapting activities and environments to meet the individual needs of all children
- Maintain accurate, confidential, and up-to-date SEND records in line with statutory requirements
- Provide coaching, mentoring, and training to staff to promote best practice in inclusive early years education
- Monitor the effectiveness of interventions and use assessment data to inform planning and next steps
- Ensure compliance with the SEND Code of Practice, EYFS Statutory Framework, and nursery policies and procedures
- Promote positive relationships and advocate for the needs of children with SEND throughout the nursery
- Contribute to safeguarding and child protection procedures, ensuring the welfare of all children remains paramount
Qualifications
- Recognised Level 3 qualification in Childcare or Early Years (minimum requirement)
- SENCo qualification (preferable but not essential)
- Proven experience supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities within an early years or childcare setting
- Sound knowledge of the EYFS Statutory Framework and SEND Code of Practice
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with children, families, colleagues, and external professionals
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage documentation, meetings, and multiple priorities effectively
- Confident in observing, assessing, and planning for children's individual learning and development needs
- Ability to work collaboratively while demonstrating initiative and leadership
- A genuine passion for inclusion and ensuring every child reaches their full potential
- A valid driving licence is desirable for attending external meetings, training, or home visits where required (preferable but not essential)
This role is ideal for a compassionate, organised, and proactive individual who is committed to creating an inclusive environment where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Candidates should be enthusiastic about continuous professional development and passionate about leading high-quality SEND provision within our nursery community.
Work Location: In person
Pay: £13.00 per hour
Work Location: In person