Join Highsted Grammar School, a leading independent girls’ grammar school in Sittingbourne, Kent, as a full‑time SENCO. The role is based at Highsted Road, Sittingbourne, ME10 4PT.
Contact
Headteacher: Anne Kelly, BA, MBA
Telephone: 01795 424223
Email: senco@highsted.kent.sch.uk
Closing Date
Applications will be accepted until 2 November 2025, 12:00 hr (Noon). If a suitable applicant is found before the closing date, the advert may be closed early.
Why Highsted Grammar School?
* A friendly, hardworking and dedicated staff team.
* The opportunity to inspire highly able, well‑motivated girls to achieve and exceed their potential.
* Dynamic and supportive working environment.
* Extensive professional development and support.
* Private health care package through Benenden Health Care.
* Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
Key Responsibilities
* Ensure the school’s SEN policy is fully implemented and compliant with the SEND Code of Practice (2014) and other statutory requirements.
* Lead and develop a high‑quality, targeted SEND strategy within a high‑performing school.
* Maintain an up‑to‑date SEND profile and accurate identification of need across the Academy.
* Provide professional development to staff on SEND matters.
* Track progress of students with SEND and write termly reports to the Governing Body.
* Deliver parental training and support for emerging or existing SEND needs.
* Deploy staff and resources according to the needs of SEND students.
* Participate in the school’s performance management and lesson‑observation processes.
* Prepare and present informative reports to parents and meet with them to discuss pupils’ progress.
Candidate Profile
* Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent and an undergraduate degree.
* Evidence of CPD relevant to the SENCO role (or willingness to undertake this training).
* SEN experience in a secondary school.
* Vision to develop the SENCO role within a high‑achieving grammar school.
* Strong communication skills, ability to influence and develop staff competence.
* Experience of using evidence-based practices, data analysis, and curriculum design.
Application & Interview Process
Applications can only be accepted through the school’s application form, available for download from the Highsted website. All sections of the application form must be completed accurately. Alternatively, candidates may apply via the Kent Teach website, but CVs will not be considered in isolation and must be attached to the application.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview. References will be requested after the interview stage. Candidates will need to bring evidence of right to work and a completed Criminal Record Self‑Declaration for the interview.
References & Safeguarding
All successful candidates will undergo an enhanced DBS check and a DBS Children’s Barred List check. Safeguarding screening is a mandatory part of the recruitment process. Candidates barred from regulated activity, or who have a history of safeguarding concerns, will not be considered.
Equal Opportunities
Highsted Grammar School is an Equal Opportunities Employer and expects all staff to share this commitment to safeguarding and the welfare of children.
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