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- Tasks: Lead and manage SEND services, ensuring high-quality assessments and support for children.
- Company: Join Derbyshire County Council, dedicated to improving lives of children with special educational needs.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexi time, generous leave, discounts, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while developing your career in a collaborative setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in leadership and SEND is essential; passion for helping children is a must.
- Other info: DBS check required; all cases assessed individually.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Join Our Team as the Head of SEND. Derbyshire County Council is on the lookout for a dynamic and experienced leader to take on the role of Head of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This pivotal position involves providing strategic leadership and operational management for county-wide education, health, and care needs assessments, reviews, mediation, and appeals.
Key Responsibilities:
- Shape the future development of statutory Education, Health, and Care Needs Assessments (EHCNAs), reviews, mediation, and appeals.
- Devise and deliver an annual service plan, monitor progress and performance, and ensure high-quality statutory assessment, planning, commissioning, and support services.
- Provide strategic oversight for the county's response to children and young people requiring formal needs assessment and EHC plans.
- Represent the department at relevant meetings, contribute to staff development sessions, manage service deployment, and develop effective systems for monitoring progress, outcomes, and destinations of pupils.
- Ensure cooperative working across departments and with external partners to support children and their families.
Why Join Us?
At Derbyshire County Council, we are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment. We offer opportunities for professional development and the chance to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
If you are passionate about improving outcomes for children and young people with SEND and have the skills and experience we are looking for, we would love to hear from you.
Enjoy being a part of our team with benefits such as:
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Flexi time, allowing up to an additional 2 days of leave per month
- Derbyshire Rewards - Discounts from high street retailers and more
- Generous annual leave and flexi time scheme
- Travel expenses
- Discounts on leisure centre memberships
- Free car parking at most sites
- In-house counselling service
- Electric car scheme
- Occupational Health service
- Access to sessions with a trained physiotherapist
- Cycle to work scheme
- Various Employee Networks championing inclusivity across the council
If you would like to discuss this role further or need more information, please contact Sally Astillon 01629 539440.
Due to this post having access to children and/or vulnerable adults, the successful candidate will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check. The possession of a criminal record will not necessarily prevent an applicant from obtaining this post, as all cases are judged individually according to the nature of the role and information provided.
Head of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities in Matlock employer: Derbyshire County Council
Contact Detail:
Derbyshire County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities in Matlock
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest policies and frameworks surrounding Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Understanding current legislation and best practices will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the SEND field. Attend relevant conferences, workshops, or local meetings to connect with others who share your passion. This can provide valuable insights and may even lead to recommendations when applying for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences in managing teams effectively. Think of specific examples where you have successfully led initiatives or projects that improved outcomes for children with SEND, as this will be crucial in interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Derbyshire County Council's current SEND initiatives and challenges. Being knowledgeable about their specific context will allow you to tailor your approach and show how you can contribute to their goals and objectives.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities in Matlock
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of SEND position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in special educational needs and disabilities. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully managed similar roles or projects, focusing on leadership and strategic oversight.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a personalised cover letter that reflects your passion for improving outcomes for children and young people with SEND. Address how your values align with those of Derbyshire County Council and mention any relevant achievements.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail, which are crucial for this leadership role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Derbyshire County Council
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure you have a deep understanding of the responsibilities and expectations for the Head of SEND position. Familiarise yourself with statutory Education, Health, and Care Needs Assessments and be ready to discuss how you would shape their future development.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare examples from your past roles that demonstrate your leadership skills, particularly in managing teams and driving strategic initiatives. Highlight any experience you have in working collaboratively across departments and with external partners.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills. Think of scenarios where you had to mediate or resolve conflicts, especially in relation to SEND, and be ready to explain your approach and the outcomes.
✨Express Your Passion for SEND
Convey your genuine passion for improving outcomes for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that illustrate your commitment to this cause, as it will resonate well with the interviewers.
