At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage complex SEN casework while supporting a team of case officers.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking Local Authority committed to inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a focus on quality assurance and team development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with special educational needs.
- Qualifications: Extensive SEN experience and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 74000 - 74000 £ per year.
Location: Harrow (Hybrid Working) 1 day a week in office
Hours: 36 hours per week, Monday to Friday
Rate: Up to £370 per day Umbrella PAYE
We are recruiting for an experienced Senior Professional SEN Casework Officer. This is an excellent opportunity for a senior SEND professional with substantial Local Authority experience, strong leadership skills, and expertise in managing complex SEN casework.
Essential Requirements
- Extensive experience as a Senior SEN Case Officer within a Local Authority SEN Service.
- Experience managing and supervising SEN Case Officers and/or EHC Coordinators.
- Strong knowledge of the Education Act 1996, Children and Families Act 2014, SEND Code of Practice 2015, and associated legislation.
- Proven ability to manage complex and contentious SEN casework.
- Experience providing staff supervision, support, training, and performance management.
Key Responsibilities
- Support and challenge colleges regarding inclusive practice and compliance with the Education Act 1996, Children and Families Act 2014, SEND Code of Practice 2015, and related legislation and guidance.
- Line manage casework officers, ensuring workloads comply with statutory requirements, maintain high standards of quality, and are completed within statutory timescales.
- Lead on complex and contentious cases relating to placement and provision, including conflict resolution and mediation.
- Prepare and coordinate the Local Authority's response to internal complaints, Local Government Ombudsman investigations, and SEND Tribunal cases.
- Contribute to effective management information systems and the completion of statutory returns.
- Support casework officers in preparing for and attending meetings with schools, parents, carers, and professionals.
- Prioritise decisions and actions relating to provision and placements for Looked After Children, learners attending the Harrow Tuition Service following permanent exclusion, and those transitioning into post-16 education.
- Co-chair weekly panel meetings focused on quality assurance of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and provision allocated through EHCPs.
- Motivate, train, develop, and performance manage staff to maintain a high-performing and effective workforce.
- Support the Service Manager with SEND funding matters and budget management.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues to develop commissioning and contracting arrangements for pupils with EHCPs.
Recruitment is done in line with safe recruitment practices. We are an equal opportunity agency.
Senior Professional SEN Casework Officer employer: 4Recruitment Services
Join our dynamic team in Harrow as a Senior Professional SEN Casework Officer, where you will be part of a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises professional development and employee well-being. With hybrid working options and a focus on leadership and collaboration, we offer a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families while enjoying competitive pay and comprehensive support for your career growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Professional SEN Casework Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the SEN field, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the Education Act and SEND Code of Practice. Be ready to discuss how you've managed complex cases in the past and how you can bring that expertise to the role. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on roles that truly match your skills and experience. Use our website to find positions that fit your profile perfectly. Tailor your approach to each application to show why you're the best fit.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and gives you another chance to highlight your strengths.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Professional SEN Casework Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience as a Senior SEN Case Officer. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand the role and its requirements.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves managing and supervising others, be sure to include examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. We want to see your ability to motivate and develop staff!
Demonstrate Your Knowledge:Familiarise yourself with the Education Act 1996, Children and Families Act 2014, and SEND Code of Practice 2015. Mention specific instances where you've applied this knowledge in your previous roles to manage complex cases.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at 4Recruitment Services
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Education Act 1996, Children and Families Act 2014, and the SEND Code of Practice 2015. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with them, but that you can apply them in real-world scenarios.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've managed and supervised SEN Case Officers or EHC Coordinators in the past. Highlight your experience in training and performance management, as this role requires strong leadership abilities.
✨Prepare for Complex Scenarios
Think about some complex and contentious cases you've handled before. Be ready to discuss your approach to conflict resolution and mediation, as well as how you prioritised decisions regarding placements and provisions.
✨Engage with the Team
Since this role involves collaboration, be prepared to talk about how you’ve worked with colleagues to develop effective systems and processes. Mention any experience you have in co-chairing meetings or contributing to quality assurance, as this will demonstrate your teamwork skills.
