Special Educational Needs Co-Ordinator (SENCO) and Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Job Introduction

Special Educational Needs Co-Ordinator (SENCO and Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Full Time

Permanent

To start 1st January 2026  (or earlier if available)

Are you a passionate, experienced, and knowledgeable SENDCo and DSL ready to make a positive impact on the lives of children with special educational needs and disabilities?

We are seeking an exceptional SENDCo and DSL to join our vibrant, inclusive, and high-performing primary school where every child is nurtured, challenged, and celebrated.  We believe in THE HAMPDEN WAY and use this to guide our thinking and behaviour.  We are KIND.   We try our BEST.  We are a TEAM.

Our school needs an exemplary SENDCo who:

• Has a wealth of experience and deep knowledge of SEND provision, legislation, and inclusive teaching strategies.
• Has a proven track record of leading, shaping, and innovating SEND practice with measurable outcomes for pupils and their families.
• Can inspire, challenge, and support colleagues in delivering high-quality provision.
• Is able to demonstrate energy and dynamism and is keen to make a difference.
• Is a team player who listens to and values the opinions of others, while bringing their own ideas and initiative.
• Is a resilient leader who can positively manage difficult and emotional conversations and communications with our families.
• Is committed to enhancing high-quality teaching through adaptive practices that are informed by the latest pedagogical research, ensuring every learner’s needs are met with precision and care. 

Our school needs an exemplary DSL who:

• Has experience of leading programmes of early help and support for vulnerable families
• Who can effectively lead our Inclusion Team comprising of a Family Links Worker and Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)
• Has experience of effective multi-agency working
• Who has a forensic eye for detail to ensure robust safeguarding policies, practices and procedures are in place and being operated effectively  

In supporting our school, you will get:

• To work with amazing, creative, fun and high-achieving children
• To work with a very supportive and dedicated team 
• To work in a community with team/family spirit in abundance
• Access to professional development and training
• To work with very supportive governing body, parents and children

Visits to the school are encouraged and warmly welcomed. To arrange a visit please email office.2591@john-hampden.oxon.sch.uk, or call the school office on (01844) 212291.

If you would like to apply, please complete and return the attached application form to admin.2591@john-hampden.oxon.sch.uk

Closing date for applications - Friday 11th July 2025

Interviews to be held - w/c 14th July 2025

Safer Recruitment

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.