Job Description

Early Years SENCo - Preschool

Job Title:

Early Years SENCo

Responsible to:

Preschool Manager / Deputy Managher

Location:

Preschool

Role Purpose

The Early Years SENCo is responsible for coordinating support for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) within the preschool. The role ensures early identification, inclusive practice, and effective partnership with families and professionals in line with the EYFS framework and the SEND Code of Practice.

Key Responsibilities

Identification & Support

Identify children with emerging or identified SEND through observation, assessment, and staff discussion Lead the graduated approach (Assess, Plan, Do, Review) to support children's individual needs Support the development and review of Individual Support Plans or SEN Support Plans

Inclusive Practice

Ensure inclusive strategies and reasonable adjustments are embedded across the preschool Support practitioners to adapt activities, routines, and the environment to meet individual needs Promote positive behaviour support and emotional well-being

Working with Families & Professionals

Build strong, trusting relationships with parents/carers Share information clearly and sensitively with families Liaise with external professionals such as health visitors, speech and language therapists, and area SEN services Attend and contribute to multi-agency meetings and reviews when required

Staff Support & Development

Provide advice, guidance, and practical strategies to preschool staff Support staff training and awareness of SEND and inclusive practice Share resources and good practice within the team

Monitoring & Record Keeping

Monitor the progress of children with SEND and review the effectiveness of interventions Maintain accurate, confidential SEND records in line with data protection requirements Support transitions into school or other early years settings

Safeguarding & Compliance

Ensure SEND provision meets EYFS welfare requirements Work in line with safeguarding policies and procedures Contribute to self-evaluation and continuous improvement within the preschool

Skills, Knowledge & Experience

Essential

Good understanding of the EYFS framework Knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice (0-25) Experience working with children with additional needs in an early years setting Strong communication and organisational skills

Desirable

Early Years SENCo training Experience supporting children with speech, language and communication needs, ASD, or developmental delay Experience working alongside external agencies

Personal Qualities

Caring, patient, and child-focused Approachable and supportive to families and colleagues Organised and reflective Committed to inclusion and early intervention
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent

Pay: From 13.45 per hour

Expected hours: 24 - 30 per week

Work Location: In person