At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage SEND Tribunal cases and support families in achieving the best outcomes.
- Company: Join Croydon Council's Children, Families and Education Service.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, hybrid working, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Initial 12-month contract with potential for extension and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with special educational needs.
- Qualifications: Degree-level education or equivalent experience in SEND legislation.
The predicted salary is between 26.68 - 26.68 £ per hour.
SEND Tribunals Officer
Croydon (Hybrid Working) £26.68 per hour PAYE / £35.48 per hour Umbrella 36 hours per week, Monday to Friday Initial 12-Month Contract
Our client, Croydon Council, is seeking an experienced SEND Tribunals Officer to join their Children, Families and Education Service on a long-term contract basis.
The successful candidate will play a key role in managing SEN Tribunal and mediation cases, representing the Local Authority and ensuring compliance with statutory SEND processes.
The Role
As a SEND Tribunals Officer, you will take lead responsibility for managing and responding to appeals lodged with the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal (SENDIST).
You will work closely with families, schools, legal representatives, health professionals and internal stakeholders to achieve the best outcomes for children and young people with SEND.
Key duties include
- Managing a caseload of SEND Tribunal appeals from initial review through to hearing.
- Preparing detailed written submissions, evidence bundles and Tribunal documentation.
- Representing the Local Authority at SEND Tribunal hearings and case management meetings.
- Leading on mediation requests and supporting dispute resolution processes.
- Assessing legal, financial and reputational risks associated with Tribunal and mediation cases.
- Working collaboratively with education, social care, health professionals and legal services.
- Providing advice and guidance on SEND legislation and Tribunal processes.
- Monitoring outcomes, maintaining accurate records and producing management reports.
- Contributing to service improvement through analysis of trends, outcomes and lessons learned.
About You
- Degree-level education or equivalent experience.
- Strong knowledge of SEND legislation, including the Children and Families Act 2014 and SEND Code of Practice.
- Experience working within a Local Authority, education, legal, public sector or SEND environment.
- Experience managing complex casework, appeals, complaints, mediation or Tribunal processes.
- Excellent written communication skills with the ability to prepare high-quality reports and submissions.
- Strong analytical, organisational and problem-solving abilities.
- Experience working with multiple stakeholders, including families, schools and professionals.
- Confidence managing sensitive and potentially challenging situations professionally.
- Additional Information
- Hybrid working arrangement with 2-3 days per week in the office at Bernard Weatherill House, Croydon.
- 36 hours per week, Monday to Friday.
- Enhanced DBS required.
- Initial 12-month contract with potential for extension.
The Adecco Group UK & Ireland is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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SEND Tribunals Officer employer: Adecco
Our client in Worthing is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values teamwork and individual contributions. With competitive pay and flexible hours, employees enjoy a balanced work-life dynamic while having access to growth opportunities within the manufacturing sector. This role as a Kitting Operative not only provides meaningful work but also allows you to be part of a respected organisation committed to excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Tribunals Officer
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Tribunals Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Adecco
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Adecco.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Adecco that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
