At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the delivery of SEND services and ensure compliance with statutory requirements.
- Company: Local Authority focused on supporting children and young people with SEND.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a dynamic environment with a commitment to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and families while leading a dedicated team.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in SEND services and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 37035 - 45265 £ per year.
Job Description
- Job Title
- SEND Operations Lead
- Location
- Hybrid / Local Authority Office
- Contract
- Temporary / Interim
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced
SEND Operations Lead to oversee the operational delivery of statutory SEND services and ensure the Local Authority fulfils its responsibilities under the
Children and Families Act 2014 , the
SEND Code of Practice , and associated legislation.
You will lead the delivery of Education, Health and Care (EHC) processes, oversee specialist placements and High Needs funding, manage service performance, and work collaboratively with education, health, social care and families to ensure children and young people receive appropriate support and achieve positive outcomes.
This is a senior leadership role requiring extensive experience within a Local Authority SEND service.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the operational delivery of statutory SEND services.
- Ensure Education, Health and Care (EHC) Needs Assessments and EHCPs are completed within statutory timescales and meet high quality standards.
- Monitor and improve service performance, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements.
- Oversee specialist educational placements to ensure they meet the needs identified within EHCPs.
- Manage High Needs Block funding and contribute to the equitable allocation of SEND resources.
- Lead on complex SEND casework, providing specialist advice and guidance to staff and senior managers.
- Support and advise on SEND Tribunal cases, complaints, Member enquiries and information requests.
- Produce statutory returns and performance reports using management information and service data.
- Develop and implement service improvements to enhance quality, efficiency and outcomes.
- Work closely with schools, academies, health professionals, social care teams, commissioners and partner organisations to deliver integrated SEND services.
- Represent the Local Authority at regional and national SEND meetings where required.
- Lead, develop and support staff through effective supervision, performance management and professional development.
- Promote safeguarding, equality, inclusion and best practice across the service.
Essential Requirements
- Degree qualification or significant equivalent experience within SEND.
- Extensive senior leadership experience within a Local Authority SEND service.
- Significant experience managing statutory SEND processes and EHCP delivery.
- Thorough knowledge of the Children and Families Act 2014, SEND Code of Practice and relevant legislation.
- Experience managing complex SEND casework, including Tribunal preparation and resolution.
- Knowledge of High Needs funding and specialist education placements.
- Experience working collaboratively with parents, carers, schools, health services and partner agencies.
- Strong understanding of performance management, service improvement and quality assurance.
- Experience managing staff, improving performance and developing high-performing teams.
- Excellent communication, organisational and stakeholder management skills.
Desirable
- Evidence of continuing professional development within SEND.
- Experience representing a Local Authority at regional or national SEND forums.
- Experience managing SEND service budgets and resource allocation.
- Knowledge of Ofsted/CQC SEND inspections and improvement programmes.
- Key Skills
- Statutory SEND
- Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)
- SEND Code of Practice
- Children and Families Act 2014
- SEND Tribunals
- High Needs Funding
- SEND Service Management
- Service Improvement
- Performance Management
- Partnership Working
- Leadership & People Management
- Complex Case Management
- Ideal Background
- Suitable applicants will have held positions such as
- SEND Service Manager ,
- SEND Operations Manager ,
- SEN Manager ,
- SEND Team Manager ,
- Head of SEND Operations ,
- Assistant Head of SEND , or
Statutory SEND Manager within a Local Authority.
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SEND Operations Lead – AR employer: Carrington Blake Recruitment
As a leading employer in Harrow, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee development and engagement. Our commitment to professional growth is evident through tailored training programmes and leadership opportunities, ensuring that every team member can thrive while contributing to the Council's strategic objectives. With a focus on diversity and community impact, we offer a unique chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of residents while enjoying a supportive and dynamic workplace.
Contact Details:
Carrington Blake Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Operations Lead – AR
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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.
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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 Operations Lead – AR
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 Carrington Blake Recruitment
✨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 Carrington Blake Recruitment.
✨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 Carrington Blake Recruitment 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.
