Job Introduction
Starting salary for this role is £44,075 (pro rata for part-time colleagues)
This role sits within a well defined pay band, offering clear progression as you grow your career at BCP. Without exception all new starters begin at the entry point of the band, ensuring fairness and consistency across the organisation. Be part of a forward thinking workplace where you’re supported to grow and you can truly #BeTheDifference at BCP.
Internal colleagues are also normally appointed at the bottom of the band, unless moving within the same profession and skill level, where the pay band is the same they can be appointed to the existing pay point.
Learn more in our ‘More than just a job’ brochure on our careers site.
Senior Area Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO)
Are you passionate about high quality learning opportunities for young children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)?
Could you motivate and inspire early education providers in the Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole area to deliver the very best services possible to children across the spectrum of special educational needs?
We are seeking an experienced and knowledgeable early years practitioner with strong SEND expertise — from early identification through to complex needs — and proven experience in leading others, shaping practice, and working in partnership to secure positive outcomes for children and families.
As a Senior Area SENCO, you will be a key member of the Early Years management team. You will be responsible for leading, supporting and supervision a team of ten Area SENCOs, ensuring high‑quality advice, guidance, and challenge is delivered to nurseries, preschools and childminders. You will make sure BCP Council meets its SEND responsibilities by supporting early years providers to identify needs early and deliver inclusive EYFS practice. You will lead and coach the Area SENCO team, promote best practice, oversee quality assurance processes, and design and deliver SEND training. The role also includes coordinating transitions for children with SEND, representing the service at professional meetings, and ensuring that all children, families and providers are treated with dignity, respect and fairness.
In return we can offer:
- Supportive line management and reflective practice discussions
- A wider team of like-minded professionals focussed on making a real difference in early education.
- A range of training and development opportunities
For an informal discussion or more information please contact Heather Carling (Early Years Operational Manager) on 01202 127242 or heather.carling@bcpcouncil.gov.uk
Proposed interview date- 8th May 2026
Please note, this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship and we can only consider applicants with existing right to work in the UK.
At BCP Council, inclusion is more than a promise – it’s how we work.
We’re committed to providing a fully inclusive recruitment process ensuring every candidate and colleague has the support and reasonable adjustments they need to thrive.
From the moment you apply, through the recruitment process and throughout your career with us, we’ll be here to listen and provide the help and support you need.
It’s why we’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer – and why you can trust that we’ll always do our best to make your experience positive and accessible.
If you require any reasonable adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please let us know when you apply or contact us directly – we’re here to help. For further information on the accessibility support we can offer please see here: Preparing for your interview | Working for BCP
About BCP Council
BCP Council provides services to a diverse community of 400,000 residents and employs more than 5,000 people. Our area includes over 15 miles of beautiful world-renowned coastline. We can offer career defining roles to transform and improve services. By working with us, you can help deliver a vision of a thriving, word-class, prosperous and inclusive place for generations to come.
Our Benefits
A Place to Thrive – Join BCP Council
At BCP Council, we’re not just building a workforce— we’re transforming how we recognise and reward our people.
Check out our attractive enhanced benefits and find out more about the new Pay and Reward package at (Employee benefits | Working for BCP link to careers page)
Be the difference - Join an organisation that values you
More About us | Working for BCP
DBS
BCP Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the community and expects all staff and volunteers to share the same commitment. Applicants to this post will be required to complete the appropriate level of Disclosure & Barring Service Check. Please refer to the Role Profile for more details.
Attached documents
