Job title: Head of SEND
Job type: Permanent
Emp type: Full-time
Industry: Secondary
Functional Expertise: SEND Teaching and Support
Salary type: Annual
Salary: Negotiable
Location: Braintree, Essex
Job published: 16-02-2026
Job ID: 115887

Job Description

SENCo (Head of Special Educational Needs) – Braintree, Essex – September 2026

We are recruiting an exceptional SENCo to join a well-regarded and community-driven secondary school in Braintree, Essex, starting September 2026. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and strategic SEND leader to take on the role of Head of Special Educational Needs, working as part of the Senior Leadership Team to drive standards and shape inclusive provision across the school.

This forward-thinking school is committed to high expectations, inclusive practice and ensuring that every student, regardless of need, is empowered to achieve academic success and personal growth. The successful SENCo will play a pivotal role in leading SEND strategy, developing staff expertise and ensuring outstanding provision for students with additional needs.

Why this SENCo role stands out

  • A key leadership position within a supportive and ambitious secondary school
  • The opportunity to shape whole-school SEND strategy and raise standards
  • Strong collaboration with SLT and external agencies
  • A culture of professional development and continuous improvement
  • The chance to make a lasting impact on students’ progress, wellbeing and outcomes

The Role – SENCo (Head of Special Educational Needs)

As Head of Special Educational Needs, you will lead and coordinate SEND provision across the school, ensuring compliance with the SEND Code of Practice and driving excellence in inclusive education. Key responsibilities include:

  • Leading the strategic development of SEND policy and provision across the school
  • Implementing and maintaining structures in line with the SEND Code of Practice
  • Overseeing EHCP processes, annual reviews and personalised support plans
  • Tracking and analysing SEN student progress to ensure strong academic outcomes
  • Observing, assessing and reviewing the needs of individual students, including new Year 7 intake
  • Coordinating literacy interventions and small group support where required
  • Supporting teachers with inclusive classroom strategies and in-class support models
  • Liaising with the Educational Psychologist and a range of external agencies
  • Leading and delivering SEND-focused CPD and INSET for staff
  • Working closely with Heads of Year and pastoral teams to ensure early identification and intervention
  • Managing SEND resources, staffing and budget effectively
  • Promoting high expectations for achievement, behaviour and wellbeing across all SEND cohorts

This SENCo role in Braintree is ideal for a resilient and strategic leader who is passionate about inclusion and committed to raising standards for students with additional needs.

We’re looking for a SENCo who…

  • Is a qualified teacher with the National SENCo Award (or willing to complete it)
  • Has significant experience supporting students with SEND in a secondary setting
  • Has strong knowledge of SEND legislation, assessment processes and national strategies
  • Can lead, develop and inspire a team within a collaborative school environment
  • Has experience working with external professionals and multi-agency teams
  • Is highly organised, analytical and committed to driving measurable progress
  • Brings warmth, integrity and ambition to a whole-school leadership role

Ribbons & Reeves are London’s leading Education Recruiters. We specialise in helping educators of all levels secure long-term and permanent roles, such as this SENCo role in Braintree, Essex. For other roles like this, search ‘Ribbons & Reeves’. We look forward to supporting you in your application.

SENCo (Head of Special Educational Needs) – Braintree, Essex – September 2026