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- Tasks: Lead the commissioning of high-quality support for children with SEND and AP.
- Company: Join Havering's dynamic SEND and Alternative Provision Service focused on improving lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, excellent CPD opportunities, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in children's lives while collaborating with passionate professionals.
- Qualifications: Experience in commissioning or related fields is essential; creativity and collaboration are key.
- Other info: Applications close on 23/02/2025; early closure may occur due to high interest.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 46000 £ per year.
Special Educational Needs, Disabilities (SEND) and Alternative Provision (AP) Commissioning Officer
Full-time, permanent
Salary G7 (£42,324 – £46,512pa)
This is an exciting time to be joining Havering SEND and Alternative Provision Service, a thriving multi-professional service whose core purpose is to deliver better outcomes and experiences for children and young people with SEND and accessing alternative provision, and their families.
The SEND and AP Commissioning Officer is a vital role, formed as part of a recent reorganisation of SEND and AP services. Two key drivers for this reorganisation and the creation of this role, were to better connect support and services for children and young people with SEND and those accessing AP through integrated commissioning, and to strengthen the Council’s AP commissioning by separating out commissioning functions from those relating to the placement of children and young people in alternative provision.
The purpose of the role is to enhance what is already being provided and commissioning placements and provision to ensure that children and young people receive access to high quality SEN and AP provision.
Key functions include:
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shaping and developing the Alternative Provision offer and the future direction of support in line with the DfE’s SEND and alternative provision improvement plan
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leading on the effective commissioning of Alternative Provision in the borough
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Working in co-production with local school leaders and our local SEND parent carer forum (Havering SEND Family Voice)
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ensuring services are inclusive, accessible and effective
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establishing and maintaining key partnerships
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Achieving social value from our commissioning arrangements
You will also play a crucial role in implementing a quality assurance framework alongside procurement and contract management processes and developing the range and resilience of providers.
You will bring imagination, innovation and a dedication to improving the life chances of all the borough’s children and young people; alongside the ability to work collaboratively with partners to ensure the right opportunities are there at the right time and of the highest quality.
Among just a few of the reasons to choose Havering are:
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An excellent induction package
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Protected CPD time as part of Havering’s ’10 days of learning’
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The chance to be part of a supportive, vibrant, talented service of more than 100 staff
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An excellent balance between home/flexible working arrangements and time together as a team to create, collaborate and develop a sense of belonging
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Easily accessible workspaces
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Excellent transport links to inner and outer London including via the Elizabeth Line, as well as to Essex, Hertfordshire and surrounding areas
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High quality IT equipment and responsive IT support
The closing date for the receipt of applications is 23/02/2025, however interest in this job may be high and we therefore reserve the right to close the vacancy early.
You will be notified if your application has been successful. Interview date to be confirmed.
Should you require any help or advice with your online application, please contact the Recruitment Helpdesk on 01708 432770.
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SEND and Alternative Provision Commissioning Officer employer: London Borough of Havering
Contact Detail:
London Borough of Havering Recruiting Team
+441708432770
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND and Alternative Provision Commissioning Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the latest policies and frameworks related to SEND and Alternative Provision. Understanding the DfE's SEND and alternative provision improvement plan will help you demonstrate your knowledge and commitment during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with local school leaders and parent carer forums like Havering SEND Family Voice. Building these relationships can provide valuable insights and show your dedication to collaborative working, which is crucial for this role.
✨Tip Number 3
Highlight any previous experience in commissioning or working with SEND services. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully improved service delivery or outcomes for children and young people.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your vision for enhancing Alternative Provision in the borough. Think about innovative ideas that could improve access and quality, as this role requires imagination and a forward-thinking approach.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND and Alternative Provision Commissioning Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the SEND and Alternative Provision Commissioning Officer position. Understand the key functions and responsibilities, as well as the skills and experiences required.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight relevant experience in special educational needs, disabilities, and alternative provision. Emphasize any previous roles that involved commissioning, partnership working, or quality assurance.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for improving outcomes for children and young people with SEND. Use specific examples from your past work to demonstrate how you can contribute to the role and the organization.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at London Borough of Havering
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the SEND and Alternative Provision Commissioning Officer role. Familiarize yourself with the key functions mentioned in the job description, such as effective commissioning and co-production with local school leaders.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Skills
Highlight your experience in working collaboratively with various stakeholders, including parents, schools, and service providers. Be prepared to discuss specific examples where you successfully built partnerships to enhance service delivery.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Inclusion
Emphasize your dedication to creating inclusive and accessible services for children and young people with SEND. Share any relevant experiences or initiatives you've been involved in that align with this commitment.
✨Prepare for Questions on Quality Assurance
Since the role involves implementing a quality assurance framework, be ready to discuss your approach to quality assurance and how you would ensure high standards in commissioning placements and provisions.
