Details:
- Salary: £55,000 - Annum
- Job Type: Permanent
- Job Status: Full-Time
- Salary Per: Annum
- Location: Nationwide
- Date: 4 days ago
Description:
SEND & Inclusion Lead
£55,000 per annum
Permanent
National / Field-Based
About the role
This is a high-impact leadership opportunity for a specialist in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and inclusion within the early years sector. You will lead the development and implementation of a national SEND and inclusion strategy, ensuring every child receives the support they need to thrive.
Key responsibilities
* Lead and implement a group-wide SEND and inclusion strategy across multiple early years settings.
* Ensure compliance with SEND legislation, the EYFS framework, and inspection requirements.
* Provide expert guidance to leaders, SENCOs, and operational teams on inclusive practice.
* Monitor quality, analyse data, and drive measurable improvements in outcomes for children with additional needs.
* Champion effective use of SEND funding and Early Years Pupil Premium (EYPP).
* Develop and coach SENCOs and setting leaders through training, mentoring, and CPD programmes.
* Promote best practice in areas such as trauma-informed approaches, emotional regulation, and early intervention.
* Build strong partnerships with local authorities, external professionals, and families to support child-centred outcomes.
* Represent the organisation at sector events and professional networks.
What we’re looking forEssential
* SENCO qualification (or equivalent recognised SEND qualification).
* Early Years qualification.
* Senior leadership experience with responsibility for SEND and inclusion.
* Strong knowledge of SEND legislation, EYFS, and inspection frameworks.
* Proven ability to improve practice through coaching, data analysis, and strategic leadership.
* Excellent communication, influencing, and relationship-building skills.
Desirable
* Degree-level qualification.
* Experience leading SEND across multiple sites or services.
* Experience designing and delivering CPD or training programmes.
What success looks like
* A clearly embedded and effective SEND strategy across all settings.
* Confident leaders delivering ambitious, inclusive provision.
* Improved outcomes for children facing barriers to learning or wellbeing.
* Consistent, high-quality SEND practice nationwide.
* Strong, collaborative relationships with families and external stakeholders.
Why apply?
This is a rare opportunity to influence inclusion at scale within a growing, values-driven childcare organisation. You’ll work closely with senior leaders, shape strategic direction, and make a lasting difference to children, families, and teams across the country