Tribunals and Mediation Officer

Tribunals and Mediation Officer

Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Ackerman Pierce Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage SEND Tribunal and mediation cases, ensuring positive outcomes for children with special needs.
  • Company: Bromley Council, a supportive agency with over 10 years in SEND recruitment.
  • Benefits: Remote work, dedicated consultant support, fast onboarding, and weekly pay.
  • Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on service improvement and effective mediation practices.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and families while working remotely.
  • Qualifications: Experience in SEND Tribunals, strong negotiation skills, and knowledge of SEND legislation.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

Bromley Council is seeking an experienced Tribunals and Mediation Officer to join its SEND Service on a fully remote basis. This role will focus on managing all aspects of SEND Tribunal and mediation processes, including attendance at hearings, Judicial Alternative Dispute Resolution (JADR) meetings, Tribunal Case Management Hearings (TCMH), mediations, and associated casework.

The successful candidate will work closely with families, legal representatives, schools, educational settings, and partner agencies to ensure SEND Tribunal cases are managed effectively, statutory responsibilities are met, and positive outcomes are secured for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Main Duties:

  • Manage a caseload of SEND Tribunal and mediation cases in accordance with statutory requirements and local procedures.
  • Prepare, coordinate, and submit Tribunal case files, written responses, witness statements, and supporting documentation within required timescales.
  • Represent the Local Authority at SEND Tribunal hearings, mediations, Judicial Alternative Dispute Resolution (JADR) meetings, and Tribunal Case Management Hearings (TCMH).
  • Liaise with parents, carers, legal representatives, schools, educational settings, and multidisciplinary professionals throughout the appeal process.
  • Review Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and associated evidence to support Tribunal and mediation activity.
  • Negotiate and seek resolution of disputes through mediation and alternative dispute resolution processes where appropriate.
  • Provide advice and guidance to SEND colleagues and educational settings regarding Tribunal procedures and appeal-related matters.
  • Ensure compliance with SEND legislation, Tribunal directions, and statutory deadlines.
  • Maintain accurate records and update relevant case management systems.
  • Monitor case progression and provide regular updates to senior managers and relevant stakeholders.
  • Promote positive working relationships with families and partner agencies to support early resolution and reduce escalation of disputes.
  • Contribute to service improvement initiatives and support the development of effective SEND Tribunal and mediation practices.

Requirements:

  • Significant experience working within SEND Tribunals, Mediation, Appeals, or a similar SEND statutory role.
  • Strong knowledge of the Children and Families Act 2014, SEND Code of Practice, SEND Regulations, and Tribunal procedures.
  • Experience preparing and managing SENDIST Tribunal casework, written submissions, and legal documentation.
  • Experience attending and representing a Local Authority at Tribunal hearings, JADR meetings, TCMHs, and mediations.
  • Excellent understanding of EHCP processes and SEND legislation.
  • Strong negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution skills.
  • Excellent written communication skills with the ability to produce clear, accurate, and legally compliant documentation.
  • Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage a complex caseload effectively.
  • Experience working collaboratively with families, legal representatives, schools, and multidisciplinary professionals.
  • Experience using SEND case management systems would be advantageous.
  • Ability to work independently in a fully remote environment while contributing positively to a wider SEND team.

Tribunals and Mediation Officer employer: Ackerman Pierce Ltd

Bromley Council is an exceptional employer, offering a fully remote role as a Tribunals and Mediation Officer within its SEND Service. With a strong commitment to employee development and a supportive work culture, the council ensures that staff are equipped with the necessary resources and guidance to excel in their roles, while also promoting positive outcomes for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Joining Bromley Council means being part of a dedicated team that values collaboration, innovation, and the importance of making a meaningful impact in the community.

Ackerman Pierce Ltd

Contact Details:

Ackerman Pierce Ltd Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Tribunals and Mediation Officer

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the SEND field on LinkedIn or through local groups. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be in landing that dream role.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEND Tribunals and mediation. We recommend role-playing with a friend or using online resources to boost your confidence and refine your answers.

Tip Number 3

Showcase your expertise! Bring along examples of your previous work, like case studies or documentation you’ve prepared. This will help demonstrate your skills and experience in managing SEND Tribunal cases effectively.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in your job search journey.

We think you need these skills to ace Tribunals and Mediation Officer

SEND Tribunal Management
Mediation Skills
Knowledge of Children and Families Act 2014
Understanding of SEND Code of Practice
Experience with Tribunal Procedures
Casework Preparation
Legal Documentation Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Tribunals and Mediation Officer role. Highlight your experience with SEND, Tribunal processes, and any relevant legislation. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about working in SEND and how your background makes you a great fit for the role. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!

Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves liaising with families and professionals, make sure your written application reflects your excellent communication skills. Use clear and professional language, and don’t forget to proofread for any typos!

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get all the updates directly from us. Plus, it’s super easy!

How to prepare for a job interview at Ackerman Pierce Ltd

Know Your SEND Legislation

Make sure you brush up on the Children and Families Act 2014 and the SEND Code of Practice. Being able to discuss these in detail will show your understanding of the legal framework you'll be working within.

Prepare for Case Scenarios

Think about specific cases you've managed in the past, especially those involving mediation or Tribunal hearings. Be ready to share how you navigated challenges and secured positive outcomes for families.

Showcase Your Communication Skills

Since this role involves liaising with various stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. You might be asked how you would handle difficult conversations, so have examples ready that demonstrate your negotiation and conflict resolution skills.

Familiarise Yourself with Remote Work Tools

As this is a fully remote position, ensure you're comfortable with any case management systems mentioned in the job description. Highlight your ability to work independently while still being a team player.