At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the transformation of Somerset's SEND system for better support and outcomes.
- Company: Join a dedicated team focused on improving children's services in Somerset.
- Benefits: Make a real impact while enjoying a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and drive meaningful change.
- Why this job: Be a key player in shaping the future of SEND support for young people.
- Qualifications: Experience in service improvement, strong organisational skills, and knowledge of SEND.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
We want Somerset’s children and young people to be able to move through the world without having to force their way through it. And that means that our SEND system needs to do better. Of course, that’s easier said than done after all, it’s common knowledge that the SEND system is facing nationwide structural challenges. But doing nothing isn’t an option, and we’re committed to finding a way to provide the right support, in the right way, right when it’s needed.
In response to the Education White Paper, we’re developing an exciting and ambitious SEND Reform Plan for Somerset. This will include the delivery of the new Experts at Hand model, placement sufficiency and future partnership, which this role will lead on. So, this brand-new role presents an amazing opportunity to bring your service improvement and programme management skills to bear on an absolutely life-changing area of our work.
We’ll look to you to work with the full range of stakeholders – from senior colleagues to system partners – in a way which generates both insight about how we can get better, and a practical shared roadmap to deliver that improvement. It’s a wide-ranging and influential role, and you’ll bring real energy and inspiration to the task of transforming the service and the experience of the young people we support.
A track record of delivering lasting change in a frontline service (ideally within Children’s Services), and wide knowledge of inclusion and the SEND system, are both essential. You must have strong organisational and financial skills and be able to bring together policymakers and experts by experience in a way that rewards everyone. Committed to a consultative, co-producing and appreciative approach, you’ll have the personal optimism and resilience to work through the kinds of complex issues that might defeat others.
Head of SEND Reform in Somerset employer: Faerfield Limited
At Somerset, we are dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for our children and young people, making us an exceptional employer in the public sector. Our commitment to service improvement and collaboration fosters a culture of innovation and growth, providing employees with meaningful opportunities to make a real difference in the lives of those we serve. With a focus on professional development and a consultative approach, we empower our team to tackle complex challenges and drive transformative change within the SEND system.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of SEND Reform in Somerset
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the SEND sector, attend relevant events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in SEND reform. Show us that you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the challenges and opportunities in the field. We want to see your insights!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! Be ready to share specific examples of how you’ve driven change in previous roles. We love hearing about real-life experiences that demonstrate your impact and resilience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always looking for candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in SEND.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of SEND Reform in Somerset
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for improving the SEND system shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference for Somerset’s children and young people.
Be Specific:Use concrete examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your skills in service improvement and programme management. We love seeing how you've tackled challenges and delivered lasting change in similar roles.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to align your application with the job description. Highlight your knowledge of inclusion and the SEND system, and show us how your values match our commitment to a consultative and co-producing approach.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to lead the SEND Reform Plan.
How to prepare for a job interview at Faerfield Limited
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the SEND system and recent reforms. Familiarise yourself with the Education White Paper and how it impacts Somerset's SEND Reform Plan. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but that you understand the context and challenges involved.
✨Showcase Your Change-Making Skills
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully delivered lasting change in frontline services. Highlight your service improvement and programme management skills, as these are crucial for this role. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would approach working with various stakeholders, from senior colleagues to system partners. Be ready to discuss your consultative and co-producing approach, and how you can bring together different perspectives to create a shared roadmap for improvement.
✨Bring Your Optimism and Resilience
This role involves tackling complex issues, so it's important to convey your personal optimism and resilience during the interview. Share stories that demonstrate how you've navigated challenges in the past and how you maintain a positive outlook while driving change.
