Tribunals and Mediation Officer in Bromley

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).

• 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.

• 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.