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- Tasks: Assist with SEND processes, coordinate reviews, and manage incoming contacts.
- Company: Join Essex County Council in transforming services for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and the chance to make a real difference in young people's lives.
- Why this job: Be part of a meaningful change while gaining valuable experience in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must have RQF level 2 or equivalent experience and knowledge of SEND practices.
- Other info: This is a 6-month fixed-term contract based in Harlow.
The predicted salary is between 21000 - 24000 £ per year.
Job Description
SEND Operations AssistantFixed Term, Full Time£25,081 to £26,679 per annumLocation: HarlowClosing Date: Sunday 7th September 2025 at 11.59pmPlease note that this is a Fixed Term Contract / Secondment opportunity for a period of 6 months.The OpportunityEssex County Council has embarked upon a programme of change for provision and services with the ambition to profoundly improve the outcomes and life experience of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Our vision is for a SEND system which identifies and assesses need at an earlier stage, and which provides appropriate and impactful support without such high dependence on Essex County Council's statutory services. The SEND Operations Assistant provides administration and support to the statutory SEND processes such as the Annual Review Process, in particular at phase transfer, as well as providing a triage service for all contacts received by the SEND Operations Team.
Support will also be provided to the Inclusion Team in relation to health referrals. With an RQF level 2 and thorough knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice 2015 and knowledge or experience of working with young people with SEND.AccountabilitiesSupport the preparation of papers for and co-ordination of the Annual Review process, ensuring that schools and settings are informed of who Annual reviews should be held for during each academic term, and that appropriate people are invited to attend.Provide triage of all incoming contacts to the SEND Operations team, acting as the first contact for parents/carers, CYP, schools, settings, and other partner agencies. Signposting service users to relevant teams where appropriate and responding to queries wherever possible.Provide administrative Support to SEND Operations Co-Ordinators by sending formal consultations to schools and settings as part of the EHC Assessment Process and co-ordinating responses.Receive, log and direct inward transfer notifications, liaising with SEND Operations Partners and SEND Operations Co-ordinators to ensure that statutory processes and timescales are fully complied with.Maintain tracking systems for all students who are at the point of phase transfer each year, and provide support to SEND Operations Partners and SEND Operations Co-ordinators to ensure that statutory processes and timescales are fully complied with and that, where appropriate, EHCP's are ceased in a timely manner.
Taking responsibility for ensuring that data is recorded accurately and in a timely manner to enable the Local Authority to report to stakeholders on a range of subjects including statutory timescales, out-of-authority placements and CYP with alternative education offers. The data will also be used monitor and track pupil records. The Experience You Will BringEducated to RQF level 2 or equivalent by experience.
Evidence of continuing professional development and expert knowledge in relevant professional area Thorough working knowledge of SEND Code of Practice 2015 Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Effective time management and prioritisation skills with the ability to manage own workload and adapt quickly and effectively to changing circumstances/situations.
SEND Operations Assistant - 6 month FTC, Harlow employer: Essex County Council
Contact Detail:
Essex County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Operations Assistant - 6 month FTC, Harlow
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the SEND Code of Practice 2015. Understanding this document is crucial as it underpins the role of a SEND Operations Assistant, and being able to discuss its key points during an interview will demonstrate your knowledge and commitment.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the SEND field. Attend local workshops or seminars related to Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. This can help you gain insights into current practices and may even lead to valuable connections that could support your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential scenario-based questions in your interview. Think about how you would handle various situations that may arise in the role, such as managing conflicting priorities or dealing with sensitive information from parents and schools.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your organisational skills. Since the role involves maintaining tracking systems and coordinating reviews, be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully managed similar tasks in the past, highlighting your attention to detail and time management abilities.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Operations Assistant - 6 month FTC, Harlow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the SEND Operations Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these specific needs.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise any previous experience you have working with children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Include specific examples that demonstrate your knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice 2015 and your ability to manage administrative tasks effectively.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that not only introduces yourself but also explains why you are passionate about supporting children and young people with SEND. Make sure to connect your personal motivations with the vision of Essex County Council.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex County Council
✨Know Your SEND Code of Practice
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the SEND Code of Practice 2015. Be prepared to discuss how it impacts your role and how you can apply its principles in practice.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves liaising with various stakeholders, showcase your verbal and written communication skills. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in previous roles, especially in challenging situations.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
The position requires effective time management and prioritisation. Be ready to share specific instances where you've successfully managed multiple tasks or projects, highlighting your ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-life scenarios related to SEND operations. Think about potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would address them.
