At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the SEND and Inclusion team to support children with special needs.
- Company: Join Walsall Council, recognised for outstanding children's services.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey that puts children and families first.
- Qualifications: Experience in senior leadership within schools or local authorities is essential.
- Other info: This role requires an enhanced DBS check and a commitment to safeguarding.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 80000 £ per year.
DescriptionHead of SEND and Inclusion – Ref: CH04825Salary Range: 81501 – 92483 (SCP59-63)We are looking for a Head of Service: Head of SEND and Inclusion to join our Access & Inclusion Management Team.It is an exciting time to join Walsall Childrens Services as we are on a Walsall Right for Children transformation journey transforming services to ensure children and families are at the centre of everything we do. This has been recognised by His Majestys Ofsted inspectors who described Walsall Council as a place where children are at the heart and rated Childrens Services as Outstanding in July 2025. This is an excellent opportunity for someone to make a real difference to children and families and to help develop our team.Main purpose of the job role: 1. Leadership and management of Education Health Care Plan (EHCP) Team and deliver statutory services in line with Special Educational Needs Code of Practice.2. Management of Tribunals and mediation process.3. Maintain and develop the statutory Local Offer.4. Work closely with schools in developing their inclusivity and ordinarily available provision.5. Management of the Educational Psychology Service.6. Leadership and management of Specialist Support Services including Early Years Special Educational Needs Service Hearing Impaired and Visually Impaired Services to childrenwith special needs and their families.7. Hold statutory function in relation to Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCO).8. Develop and maintain Quality Assurance Framework for SEND. Ensure service is inspection ready.9. Responsible for Dedicated Schools Grant and High Needs Funding and reporting to all accountable bodies and partners.The successful candidate will have/be: Successful Headship/Senior leadership experience in school(s) or Local Authority. Develops effective relationships internally and externally and responds to external pressures; is politically astute and understands how the organisation works in line with the constitution and supporting guidance. Finds ways of working with partners.Establishes and promotes a clear vision for services within the posts remit which is coherent with the Council Plan and vision for the Borough and complies with Government policy taking account of social and economic trends. Role model the behaviours expected of others in creating a high performing culture across the organisation where people feel empowered and accountablePlease contact Sharon Kelly Director Access and Inclusion for further information Closing date: 22nd August 2025Interviews 1st September 2025View: Job Description and Employee SpecificationWalsall Councilis an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.Legislation imposes restrictions on political activity for certain local government employees. This position is designated as a politically restricted (sensitive) post as set out in Part 1 the Local Government & Housing Act 1989 and the Local Government (Political Restrictions) Regulations 1990 (LGO(PR)R 1990) SI 851 and S.30 of the Local Democracy Economic Development and Construction Act 2009.This post is covered by the Governments Code of Practice on the English Language Fluency Duty for public sector workers. The post holder will be required to communicate verbally with customers and provide advice and/or information in accurate spoken EnglishWalsall Council takes seriously the responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of all the children young people and vulnerable adults entrusted to our care and it is our expectation that all staff will share this commitment. We will ensure continuous development and improvement of robust recruitment processes and procedures that promote a culture of safeguarding amongst our workforce. Completion of an enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check is a requirement for working with children and young people and vulnerable adults.Note:Applicants appointed to posts that require an enhanced DBS clearance must declare any periods of time that they have lived studied or worked abroad and be prepared to provide an Overseas Criminal Records Certificate (OCRC) or a Statement of Good Conduct (SOGC) relating to anytime they were overseasInformation for ApplicantsImportant note: When completing your online application form you will be asked to enter supporting information. You must enter a detailed supporting information statement describing how your skills abilities and experience meet the specific criteria included in the employee specification. If you do not include a supporting information statement you will not be shortlisted.Please also ensure that you complete the work history and qualifications sections of your application form. Please do not add a CV as we do not accept them. See our Information for Applicants leaflet for further information.We kindly request that recruitment agencies do not contact us regarding this job vacancy. We are not accepting Agency applications or referrals at this timeRequired Experience:Director Key Skills Marketing & Promotions,Attorney At Law,Jni,Airlines,Art Employment Type : Full-Time Experience: years Vacancy: 1
Head of SEND and Inclusion - Ref: CH04825 employer: Dr Jobs
Contact Detail:
Dr Jobs Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of SEND and Inclusion - Ref: CH04825
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice and the current trends in SEND. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and understanding of the responsibilities involved.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of SEND and inclusion. Attend relevant conferences or workshops, and connect with others on platforms like LinkedIn. Building these relationships can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how it aligns with Walsall Council's vision for children’s services. Think about specific examples from your past experience that showcase your ability to lead teams and drive change in educational settings.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Walsall Council's recent initiatives and achievements in SEND and inclusion. Being able to reference these during your discussions will show your genuine interest in the role and your proactive approach to understanding the organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of SEND and Inclusion - Ref: CH04825
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description and understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Head of SEND and Inclusion position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these specific needs.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: When filling out the online application, pay special attention to the supporting information statement. Clearly articulate how your skills, abilities, and experiences meet the criteria outlined in the employee specification. Use specific examples to demonstrate your leadership and management capabilities.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasise any previous headship or senior leadership experience you have in schools or local authorities. Discuss your successes in developing inclusive practices and managing teams, as these are crucial for this role.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure that you complete all sections of the application form, including work history and qualifications. Remember, do not attach a CV as it will not be accepted. Adhering to these instructions is vital for your application to be considered.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dr Jobs
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure you have a deep understanding of the Head of SEND and Inclusion role. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities outlined in the job description, especially around leadership, management of EHCP teams, and working with schools on inclusivity.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous leadership roles and how they relate to the requirements of this position. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully managed teams or projects, particularly in educational settings or local authorities.
✨Demonstrate Your Vision
Articulate a clear vision for how you would lead the SEND and Inclusion services. Discuss how your vision aligns with Walsall Council's objectives and how you plan to implement changes that benefit children and families.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenges in SEND. Think about past experiences where you've navigated complex situations, such as managing tribunals or developing quality assurance frameworks.