Leadership Scale (England & Wales) + Teacher Pension Scheme + 24/7 access to a free virtual GP Service + collaborative MAT network + additional LAT benefits .
Leigh Academy Rainham is seeking an exceptional and dedicated Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) to join our team starting in Easter 2026.
At the heart of all we do is our philosophy of 'Invisible Inclusivity'. This means our well-embedded structures, systems, and routines are meticulously designed to ensure every single student, regardless of their needs, feels valued, belongs, and can immerse themselves in all aspects of academy life. As our next SENCO, you will be the driving force behind this vision!
This is a unique opportunity to lead a provision where the focus is on learning differences, not learning difficulties, ensuring all students - from those needing support for dyslexia or ASD to those with an EHCP - receive an outstanding education.
Why join us?
* Be part of a welcoming, inclusive, and values-driven school
* Work in a modern, purpose-built learning environment
* Join a team that values collaboration, wellbeing, and professional growth
* Receive high-quality training and development through Leigh Academies Trust
Plus, enjoy great staff benefits, including:
* Enhanced family-friendly policies
* Employee Assistance Programme
* 24/7 access to a free virtual GP Service
* Wellbeing support and staff recognition initiatives
* Free onsite parking
Working with us at Leigh Academy Rainham
Since opening our doors in September 2021 to our first 180 students, Leigh Academy Rainham has quickly become a sought-after, oversubscribed school for ages 1118. We’re on a mission to inspire every learner, nurturing curiosity, compassion and ambition through a rich, challenging curriculum and a deeply inclusive culture.
Our close-knit community thrives on collaboration, human-scale education, and strong pastoral care - ensuring every student feels known, valued, and supported. We partner closely with families to help our young people flourish as confident, culturally aware leaders of tomorrow.
Working in a brand-new school is a unique adventure. We’re seeking staff with drive, creativity, and a can-do spirit, ready to shape an exceptional academic and co-curricular offer from day one. Bring your skills, talents - and your sense of humour - and be part of something extraordinary.
Click here to find out more about Leigh Academy Rainham.
Applying for this Opportunity
Thank you for your interest in joining us. If you’d like to find out more about this role or arrange a visit to the academy, please don’t hesitate to contact Holly Neve (Talent Manager): holly.neve@latrust.org.uk / 01634 412 263.
To support your application, we recommend viewing the Job Pack by clicking here, which outlines the full role responsibilities and person specification. This will guide you in preparing a strong application and understanding what we’re looking for.
Early applications are encouraged, as we reserve the right to interview before the closing date. All applications must be submitted through our online application form prior to the deadline.
Our Commitment to Safeguarding, Equality & Diversity
Leigh Academies Trust and all of our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We adopt a fair, robust and consistent recruitment process across all academies and business units which is inline with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. This includes online checks for shortlisted candidates - you can read more about it on our Careers site. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check.
As a Trust, we are passionate about diversity and recognise that as individuals, we all bring something unique to the role regardless of any protected characteristics which is why we treat all of our people equally, without compromise. We are committed to providing equality and fairness throughout our recruitment and employment practices and not discriminating on any grounds.