Early Years SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator)

Role: Early Years SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator
Location: Hayes, UB3, 4EF
Salary: From £12.50 per hour
Reports to: Owner/Manager
Start Date: As soon as possible

We are seeking a SEND coordinator for a day nursery that provides a wide range of services to babies and children from 3 months and onwards. The day nursery is newly renovated and purpose built for 44 children and based in Hayes. The job purpose is to lead and coordinate the provision for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in line with the SEND Code of Practice and the Early Foundation Stage (EYFS). The SENCo will work in partnership with parents, key persons, and outside agencies to ensure every child receives the best start in life.

Key responsibilities:

SEND Coordination:

• Identify, assess, and support children with SEND, ensuring early identification and timely interventions
• Maintain and regularly review SEND Support Plans and EHCP documentation
• Monitor progress and adapt support as needed in partnership with key persons
• Maintain up-to-date records of all children with SEND

Liaison and Partnership

• Work collaboratively with parents/carers, ensuring their insights and perspectives are included in all planning and review processes
• Liaise with health visitors, speech and language therapists, educational psychologists, local authority SEND services, and other professionals
• Attend and contribute to review meetings and case conferences

Staff Support and Development

• Support staff in understanding and implementing inclusive practice and differentiation strategies
• Deliver or coordinate SEND training and updates for the team
• Advise and guide staff on appropriate strategies and interventions for individual children

Compliance and Policy

• Ensure all SEND practices are compliant with statutory guidance and nursery policies
• Lead on SEND-related audits, reviews, and self-evaluations
• Contribute to the development and implementation of the nursery's SEND policy

General Duties

• Attend staff meetings, training and relevant CPD
• Promote a safe, caring, and stimulating environment for all children
• Uphold the values and ethos of the nursery and ensure safeguarding is always a priority

Personal Specification

Essential:

• Level 3 or above qualification in Early Years (e.g., NVQ, CACHE, or equivalent)
• Experience working with children with SEND in an early years setting
• Strong understanding of the SEND Code of Practice and EYFS framework
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to lead and influence others in a positive and supportive way

Desirable:

• SENDCo qualification or willingness to undertake it
• Experience with EHCP processes ad multi-agency working
• Knowledge of tools such as Makaton, PECS, or relevant SEND screening assessments

A DBS check and satisfactory references will be required for the successful candidate