At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage Special Educational Needs cases and provide legal advice to families and schools.
- Company: Join a leading law firm in Reading with a focus on SEN law.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Supportive team environment with mentoring opportunities and a commitment to quality.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with special educational needs.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor with experience in SEN law and strong communication skills.
An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Special Educational Needs Solicitor to join my clients team in their Reading, Berkshire offices on a hybrid basis. Reporting to the Special Educational Needs Partner, you will manage your own caseload of SEN matters while also supporting the wider team on more complex cases. The role involves working closely with families, schools, local authorities, experts and Tribunals to provide high quality legal advice and representation across a broad range of Special Educational Needs matters.
Role & Responsibilities:
- Manage a caseload of Special Educational Needs matters including SEND Tribunal appeals
- Deal with new enquiries and provide initial legal guidance to prospective clients
- Advise clients on Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), appeals and related SEN issues
- Draft Grounds of Appeal, witness statements and other legal documentation
- Prepare appeal bundles and supporting evidence for Tribunal proceedings
- Proof EHCPs and prepare Working Documents
- Liaise with clients, local authorities, schools, experts and the SEND Tribunal
- Instruct and liaise with experts, including arranging assessments and managing expert evidence
- Request and review SAR records from schools and local authorities
- Draft correspondence to clients, schools, local authorities and experts
- Prepare schedules of documents for appeals and expert review
- Manage client finances, costs budgets and expert fees
- Assist with marketing initiatives and events to help promote Boyes Turner as a brand
- Write articles and legal updates for the company website
- Support and mentor junior team members where appropriate
- Undertake legal research as required
- Ensure all work is maintained at a high level of quality to promote the reputation of the firm
Skills, Attributes & Experience:
- Qualified Solicitor with experience in Special Educational Needs law
- Experience managing SEN matters including SEND Tribunal appeals
- Strong drafting and advocacy preparation skills
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Strong client care and relationship management skills
- Good interpersonal and organisational skills
- Excellent attention to detail
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
- Strong IT skills with good knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Excel
- Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast paced environment
Should you have any questions or wish to apply please do not hesitate to contact Clear Legal and Financial Recruitment.
Please Note: Due to the number of applications we receive we may be unable to respond to every application directly. If you have not heard from us within 3 working days, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.
Solicitor - Special Educational Needs in Reading employer: Clear IT Recruitment
Join a dynamic and supportive team at Boyes Turner, where your expertise as a Special Educational Needs Solicitor will be valued and nurtured. Located in the vibrant town of Reading, Berkshire, we offer a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance, alongside opportunities for professional development and mentorship. Our collaborative culture encourages innovation and excellence, making it an ideal environment for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of families and children with special educational needs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solicitor - Special Educational Needs in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who specialise in Special Educational Needs. Attend relevant events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio of your work related to SEN law, including any articles or legal updates you've written. This will not only demonstrate your knowledge but also give you something tangible to discuss during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on common SEN issues and recent changes in legislation. Be ready to discuss how you would handle specific cases, as this will show your potential employer that you're not just knowledgeable but also practical.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We often have exclusive listings and resources that can help you land that perfect role. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Solicitor - Special Educational Needs in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in Special Educational Needs law. We want to see how your skills match the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your relevant caseload management and advocacy preparation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about working in SEN law and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves liaising with various stakeholders, make sure your written application reflects your excellent communication skills. Clear, concise language will show us that you can handle the demands of the job effectively.
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 don’t miss out on any important updates from us. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Clear IT Recruitment
✨Know Your SEN Law
Make sure you brush up on the latest developments in Special Educational Needs law. Familiarise yourself with key legislation, such as the Children and Families Act 2014, and be ready to discuss how it impacts your approach to cases. This will show your potential employer that you're not just knowledgeable but also passionate about the field.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Think about real-life scenarios you might face in the role, like managing a SEND Tribunal appeal or advising a family on an EHCP. Prepare examples from your past experience that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to handle complex situations. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves liaising with various stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be prepared to discuss how you would communicate legal advice to clients who may not have a legal background. Highlighting your strong verbal and written communication skills will be crucial in making a positive impression.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Even though you'll be managing your own caseload, teamwork is essential in this role. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others, mentored junior colleagues, or contributed to team projects. Showing that you can work well both independently and as part of a team will resonate well with the interviewers.
