Assistant/Deputy Headteacher with SENDCO - Norwich
Overview of position
Job Title: Assistant/Deputy Headteacher with SENDCO
Reports to: Headteacher
Main Purpose: To support the Headteacher in the strategic leadership, development and day-to-day management of the school, while leading and managing Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision across the school. This role combines whole-school leadership with responsibility for inclusion, ensuring that all pupils—particularly those with SEND—receive a high-quality, personalised education that meets regulatory requirements, organisational expectations and individual needs. The postholder will play a key role in driving high standards across teaching, learning, behaviour and inclusion, working collaboratively with staff, families, external professionals and stakeholders to promote positive outcomes and a culture of high expectations.
Level: 7B/8
Working Time: This job description allocates responsibilities and duties but does not direct the particular amount of time to be spent on carrying them out and no part of it may be so construed. In allocating time to the performance of responsibilities and duties the postholder must use directed time.
Location: Norwich
Rate of pay: £45,000 - £58,000 Plus inspection bonus
Teaching Duties and Responsibilities
Role Specific Duties
Strategic Leadership & School Improvement
● Contribute to the strategic direction, aims and policies of the school
● Support the Headteacher in designing and implementing the School Improvement Development Plan
● Lead on inclusion and SEND strategy across the school
● Promote a culture of high expectations, continuous improvement and inclusive practice Working with Others:
Teaching and Learning
● Lead the development of a high-quality, inclusive curriculum, including Outdoor Learning
● Monitor and evaluate teaching and learning across the school
● Provide coaching, training and support to improve staff practice
● Ensure teaching is adapted to meet the needs of all pupils, particularly those with SEND
SEND Leadership (SENCO Responsibilities)
● Lead and manage SEND provision in line with the SEND Code of Practice (2014)
● Oversee the implementation and review of the SEN policy and SEN Information Report
● Coordinate provision for pupils with SEND, including EHCPs, PLPs and other plans
● Monitor and evaluate the impact of SEND provision through data, observations and reviews
● Act as the main point of contact for parents, carers and external professionals
● Lead multi-agency meetings and referrals to external services
● Ensure compliance with statutory requirements and best practice in SEND
Pupil Progress and Outcomes
● Monitor pupil progress and attainment across the school
● Analyse data to identify strengths, gaps and areas for development
● Track progress of pupils with SEND against EHCP and other outcomes
● Ensure all pupils achieve their full potential
Staff Leadership and Development
● Support staff management, including induction, supervision and appraisal
● Identify and deliver CPD, including SEND training
● Provide professional guidance to colleagues on inclusive teaching strategies
● Support staff to meet the needs of pupils with additional needs
Deputising
● Undertake the professional duties of the Headteacher in their absence
● Represent the Headteacher in operational and strategic matters
Safeguarding & Welfare
● Promote and safeguard the welfare of all pupils
● Ensure all safeguarding policies and procedures are followed
● Support pupils’ wellbeing, behaviour and safety
School Ethos and Community
● Promote the school’s values, ethos and inclusive culture
● Build strong relationships with families, carers and the wider community
● Ensure the school plays a positive role within the community
Whole School Organisation
● Fulfil the responsibilities of a classroom teacher as required
● Ensure effective systems, organisation and processes across the school
● Maintain an inclusive, safe and well-ordered learning environment
● Oversee SEND provision and ensure appropriate resources and facilities are in place
● Contribute to school self-evaluation, SEF and development planning
● Work with external agencies, local networks and advisory bodies
● Support staff deployment and effective use of resources
● Ensure smooth pupil transitions into, within and out of the school
● Maintain accurate and up-to-date pupil records, including SEND documentation
● Participate in staff recruitment and selection
Health, Safety and Discipline
● Promote the safety and wellbeing of all pupils
● Ensure effective behaviour management across the school
● Maintain a safe working environment for staff and pupils
● Ensure accessibility and appropriate provision for pupils with SEND
Professional Development
● Model outstanding leadership and teaching practice
● Lead and participate in professional development activities
● Keep up to date with developments in education and SEND
● Support the development and appraisal of staff
● Engage in continuous professional learning
Communication
● Build and maintain positive relationships with pupils, staff, families and professionals
● Communicate the school’s vision and values effectively
● Provide regular updates on pupil progress and SEND provision
● Liaise with external agencies and stakeholders
Personal and Professional Conduct
● Uphold high standards of ethics, behaviour and professionalism
● Maintain confidentiality at all times
● Follow statutory frameworks, school policies and the staff code of conduct
● Demonstrate commitment to safeguarding, equality and inclusion
● Maintain high standards of attendance and punctuality
Value-Based Personal Qualities
Qualifications and Experience
● Qualified Teacher Status (essential)
● National Award for SEN Coordination (or willingness to achieve)
● Relevant leadership qualifications (e.g. NPQSL/NPQH) desirable
● Evidence of ongoing professional development
● Successful leadership experience in a school setting
● Experience working with pupils with SEND and complex needs
● Proven track record of raising attainment and improving outcomes
● Experience of managing staff and leading change
● Experience working with external agencies and stakeholders
Skills and Knowledge
● Strong understanding of the SEND Code of Practice
● Ability to analyse and use data to inform improvement
● Excellent teaching and modelling of best practice
● Strong leadership, communication and interpersonal skills
● Ability to lead training and develop staff
● Knowledge of safeguarding and inclusion practices
Personal Qualities
● Commitment to achieving the best outcomes for all pupils
● High expectations of pupil achievement and behaviour
● Ability to prioritise, manage workload and work under pressure
● Strong organisational and leadership skills
● Commitment to safeguarding, equality and inclusion
● Ability to build effective relationships with all stakeholders
The above is not exhaustive and the post holder will be expected to undertake any duties which may reasonably fall within the level of responsibility and the competence of the post as directed by the Head of School. This job description may be amended at any time in consultation with the postholder.
Applying For the Job:
We require all applicants to complete the attached application form to be considered for a position at Cascade. The form takes approximately 40-50 minutes to complete, so please ensure you have enough time. If you encounter any issues while filling out the form, please contact the Cascade Recruitment Team: recruitment@cascade-care.com
We are an equal opportunities employer with a firm commitment to the professional development of all our staff. Cascade Banks House School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to undertake relevant safeguarding checks. This post is exempt from the rehabilitation of offenders act 1974.
Cascade Children’s Home and School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people; we ensure that the highest priority is given to following ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education 2024.
This post is covered by Part 7 of the Immigration Act (2016) and therefore the ability to speak fluent English is an essential requirement for this role.