At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead SEND and alternative provision projects, translating data into impactful assessments.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council dedicated to children's services.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, a competitive pension, and health support.
- Other info: Inclusive employer welcoming diverse backgrounds; no CVs accepted.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives through strategic planning and collaboration.
- Qualifications: Experience in SEND strategy and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 47181 - 50269 £ per year.
Salary: £47,181 – £50,269
Working arrangements: Flexible working available
Hours per week: 37
Contract type: Permanent
Responsibilities
- Report directly to the Head of Programme Management Office.
- Apply subject‑matter expertise in SEND, alternative provision or high‑needs sufficiency planning.
- Understand statutory frameworks, read EHCPs and demand data, and translate findings into sufficiency assessments and evidence base.
- Produce analytical reports that inform gateway decisions and support capital business cases.
- Maintain an evidence base that drives funding and programme outcomes, avoiding purely administrative tasks.
- Collaborate with local authority teams, partners, and stakeholders to deliver programme objectives.
Qualifications
- Background in SEND strategy, specialist commissioning or high‑needs planning within a local authority context.
- Strong analytical and report‑writing skills.
- Knowledge of statutory frameworks for children’s services and SEN.
- Experience interpreting EHCPs and demand data.
- Ability to contribute to commissioning and funding programmes.
Additional Information
- Enhanced DBS check required.
- Overseas applicants must provide a criminal records check from all countries lived in during the last five years if they are the preferred candidate.
- Applicants must be ready to start with all necessary legal documents (e.g., visa). The council does not sponsor visas.
Benefits
- Flexible working arrangements.
- Competitive pension scheme.
- Support for health and wellbeing.
- Opportunities for training and development.
Equality and Inclusion
We are an inclusive employer. We welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds, including those with past convictions. We do not discriminate on any protected characteristic and ensure a fair and accessible recruitment process.
Application Information
CVs are not accepted for this role. The job profile and exposure profile documents are available on the council website. For more information visit Barnsley Council Jobs.
Closing date: 5 June 2026 at 23:59
Senior Programme Officer (SME) – SEND and Alternative Provision Sufficiency in Barnsley employer: Barnsley Council
As a Senior Programme Officer within Barnsley Council, you will join a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional development. With flexible working arrangements and a competitive pension scheme, the council fosters an environment where your expertise in SEND and alternative provision can truly make a difference in the community. This role offers meaningful opportunities to collaborate with local authorities and stakeholders, ensuring that your contributions lead to impactful outcomes for children and families in need.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Programme Officer (SME) – SEND and Alternative Provision Sufficiency in Barnsley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those who work in SEND or alternative provision. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio of your analytical reports and sufficiency assessments. When you get the chance to meet potential employers, having tangible examples of your work can really set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on statutory frameworks and local authority initiatives. Being knowledgeable about current trends and changes in SEND will not only boost your confidence but also impress interviewers with your commitment to the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary documents and info to help you ace your application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Programme Officer (SME) – SEND and Alternative Provision Sufficiency in Barnsley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand what we're looking for. Dive into the job description and highlight key responsibilities and qualifications that match your experience.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We want to see how your skills in SEND strategy and high-needs planning fit the role. Use specific examples from your past work to show us why you're the perfect fit.
Show Off Your Analytical Skills:Since this role involves producing analytical reports, make sure to showcase your report-writing skills. Include any relevant experience interpreting data or creating assessments that influenced decision-making.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only accept applications through our website, so don’t forget to submit your application there. It’s super easy, and you’ll find all the necessary documents to help you along the way!
How to prepare for a job interview at Barnsley Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of SEND, alternative provision, and high-needs sufficiency planning. Familiarise yourself with statutory frameworks and be ready to discuss how you've applied this expertise in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your analytical abilities by discussing past experiences where you've produced reports or assessments. Bring examples of how your findings influenced decisions or improved outcomes in children's services.
✨Collaborate Like a Pro
Since collaboration is key in this role, think of specific instances where you've worked with local authorities or stakeholders. Be ready to share how you navigated challenges and achieved programme objectives together.
✨Be Ready for the Legal Stuff
Understand the importance of legal documents and checks, especially if you're an overseas applicant. Make sure you have all necessary paperwork sorted out before the interview, so you can focus on showcasing your skills.
