Special Education Needs and Disabilities Coordinator

OverviewLeeds East Academy is seeking an experienced, dynamic, and committed Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator (SENDCo) to play a pivotal role in shaping and leading our SEND provision. Working closely with the Principal, Assistant Principal for Inclusion & Provision and the Senior Leadership Team, you will drive the strategic development of SEND across the academy and ensure the highest standards of support for our young people.As the named SENDCo, you will lead the continued development and effective implementation of our SEND policy, strengthening our well-established systems, structures and graduated provision. OFSTED (2024) recognised our unwavering commitment, noting that “the school works tirelessly to ensure pupils with SEND get the support that they need.” You will uphold this standard by championing an inclusive, ambitious vision where every student feels valued, respected and fully supported to achieve their potential.With strong expertise in SEND practice and extensive classroom experience, you will model high-quality, inclusive teaching and provide direct classroom support where required. You will lead casework, oversee statutory processes, coordinate robust intervention pathways, and monitor the progress of SEND learners to ensure timely, effective provision. Collaboration with families, external agencies and the wider student support team will be central to your role.This position requires an excellent communicator with exceptional organisational skills, the confidence to influence whole-school practice, and the drive to deliver a purposeful, impactful SEND provision.What the school offers its staff Responsibilities Lead the development and implementation of the SEND policy and provision across the academy. Manage casework and oversee statutory processes related to SEND. Coordinate robust intervention pathways and monitor progress of SEND learners to ensure timely provision. Collaborate with families, external agencies and the wider student support team to support pupils with SEND. Model high-quality, inclusive teaching and provide/direct classroom support where required. Drive strategic development of SEND across the academy in partnership with Senior Leadership. Qualifications and Requirements Strong expertise in SEND practice with extensive classroom experience. Excellent communication and organisational skills. Ability to influence whole-school practice and deliver a high-impact SEND provision. Post Details Post Reference: 2732 Academy: Leeds East Academy Job Title: Special Education Needs and Disabilities Coordinator (SENDCo) Grade: Leadership 1 to 5 (£51,773 to £57,137) Hours: Full Time About Leeds East Academy Leeds East Academy is a thriving 11-16 school committed to transforming the lives of young people through education. Rooted in values of resilience, integrity, trust, and ambition, the academy fosters an inclusive and supportive environment where every student is encouraged to excel, regardless of their background. As part of the White Rose Academies Trust, the school is dedicated to delivering a world-class education, continuously evolving to meet the needs of its students and embracing innovative approaches to learning. Recognised by Ofsted in 2024 for its strong leadership, positive student behaviour, and personal development opportunities, Leeds East Academy has undergone remarkable improvement in recent years. The school is driven by the belief that every child can achieve exceptional outcomes. More than just a place of learning, the academy nurtures and inspires students, equipping them with the skills and character to succeed in life and contribute positively to society. We are committed to investing in our staff and supporting their continuous professional growth. As part of our Trust, colleagues have access to a range of nationally recognised qualifications from Level 3 to Level 6, fully funded by the organisation. We provide protected time during the working week to enable staff to complete these qualifications successfully, ensuring professional development is both achievable and meaningful. This commitment reflects our belief in nurturing talent and supporting career progression across all roles within the Trust. Leeds East Academy is part of White Rose Academies Trust, a local trust dedicated to raising aspirations and unlocking the potential of young people across Leeds. Together, we are committed to delivering a world-class education and creating life-changing opportunities for all. Closing Date: Friday, 9th January 2026 Interview Date: Week Commencing 19th January 2026 Start Date: As soon as possible Safeguarding and Equal Opportunity White Rose Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of its students and expects all staff and volunteers to share the commitment. Appointments will be subject to Safer Recruitment Procedures and an enhanced DBS check. This role involves contact with children and is regulated activity. It is an offence to apply for the role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children. 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