Job title and organisation: Special Education Needs and Disabilities - Leeds East Academy
Salary: Leadership 1 to 5 (£51,773 to £57,137)
Hours: Full time
Contract: Permanent unless otherwise stated
Location: Leeds East Academy
Closing Date and Time:Monday 28 December 2025
Post Reference: 2732
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.
Role:
Leeds 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.
We believe the trust is a highly desirable place of work for an ambitious professional, who will be joining one of the most supportive and talented teams in the country.
Closing Date on school website: Friday, 9th January 2026
Interview Date: Week Commencing 19th January 2026
Start Date: As soon as possible
To apply, please visit Every Candidate Portal - View Job Details
If you would like to arrange a visit to the academy, please contact us on 0113 273 1964.
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.
Please note this role will involve contact with children and you will be engaging in regulated activity. It is an offence to apply for the role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children.
We promote diversity and want a workforce which reflects the population of Leeds. Applications are welcome from all, irrespective of sex, sexuality, race, religion, marital status, age or disability.
The above post is not a Leeds City Council vacancy and has been advertised on behalf of the relevant organisation. To apply please follow their application instructions.
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