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- Tasks: Lead teams to deliver high-quality services for Looked After Children and Care Leavers.
- Company: Kirklees Council, dedicated to improving outcomes for children and families.
- Benefits: Generous salary, local government pension, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and young people in Kirklees.
- Qualifications: Professional Social Work qualification and substantial experience in children's social care.
- Other info: Supportive environment with a focus on innovation and partnership.
The predicted salary is between 62472 - 73056 ÂŁ per year.
As Head of Service – Corporate Parenting & Looked After Children, you will lead and inspire teams delivering high‑quality services for Looked After Children and Care Leavers. You’ll drive strategic improvement, champion partnership working, and ensure robust safeguarding and case management across Kirklees.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Leading operational teams supporting Looked After Children and Care Leavers
- Translating strategy into outstanding social care practice
- Driving partnership working to improve outcomes for children and young people
- Promoting transparency, challenge, and continuous improvement
- Ensuring cost‑effective, high‑quality social work and case management
- Using national best practice and local data to drive service improvement
- Managing service delivery within budgets and targets
- Championing safeguarding and corporate ownership of children’s issues
About You:
We’re seeking a dynamic leader with a proven track record in children’s social care.
You’ll Need:
- Professional Social Work qualification with registration with SWE
- Substantial experience in frontline child protection and children’s social care
- Significant senior leadership experience in children’s services
- Strong influencing and stakeholder management skills
- Understanding of wider issues in local government and partner organisations
- Accepts this post is politically restricted
- Accepts an enhanced DBS and barred list check is required
Benefits Include:
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Generous annual leave
- Flexible working
- Professional development, and more
Ready to make a real difference for children and young people in Kirklees? Apply now via our website and help shape the future of corporate parenting and looked after children’s services.
About The Organisation:
Kirklees Council is committed to improving outcomes for children and families. Our Children and Families service is at the forefront of innovation, partnership, and best practice. We offer a supportive, collaborative environment where your leadership can have a lasting impact.
Closing date 09 February 2026, 11:55 PM
Head of Service - Corporate Parenting & Looked After Children employer: Kirklees Council
Contact Detail:
Kirklees Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Service - Corporate Parenting & Looked After Children
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the social care sector, especially those who might know someone at Kirklees. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Kirklees Council's recent initiatives in children's services. Show us that you’re not just a fit for the role but also passionate about making a difference in the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! We want to hear about your past experiences in driving improvements and managing teams. Use the STAR method to structure your answers and keep it engaging.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our mission to improve outcomes for children and families.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Service - Corporate Parenting & Looked After Children
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description. We want to see how you can drive strategic improvement and champion partnership working!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a dynamic leader, it’s crucial to demonstrate your senior leadership experience in children’s services. Share specific examples of how you've influenced change and improved outcomes for children and young people.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to convey your qualifications and experiences. We appreciate clarity as much as we value passion!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kirklees Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of the Head of Service role. Familiarise yourself with current best practices in children’s social care, especially around corporate parenting and safeguarding. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you’re ready to lead.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you’ve successfully led teams or driven strategic improvements. Highlight how you’ve championed partnership working and improved outcomes for children and young people. This is your chance to shine as a dynamic leader!
✨Understand the Local Context
Research Kirklees Council and its Children and Families service. Understand their current challenges and successes, and think about how you can contribute to their goals. Being able to discuss local issues shows your commitment and readiness to make a real difference.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about their approach to continuous improvement or how they measure success in their services. Asking questions not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if this role is the right fit for you.
