At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape SEND services to make a real difference for children and families.
- Company: Lancashire County Council, committed to transforming support for children with special educational needs.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, generous leave, professional development, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on continuous improvement and meaningful impact.
- Why this job: Be a key player in creating inclusive services that empower young people to thrive.
- Qualifications: Senior experience in managing SEND services and strong understanding of SEND legislation.
The predicted salary is between 57000 - 63000 ÂŁ per year.
The Lancashire SEND Service is currently recruiting to a number of new and existing roles following a service redesign aimed at strengthening capacity and improving support for children and young people with SEND. This has created additional posts across teams resulting in more opportunity to join the team. This period of growth is a positive and intentional step toward building a skilled, resilient and high‑performing service. We are looking for motivated, committed individuals who are ready to contribute to our improvement journey and make a real difference to families across Lancashire.
As a key leader within the Inclusion Service, you’ll oversee strategic and operational delivery of SEND services across Lancashire. You will guide high‑performing teams, ensuring clear direction, strong supervision and a culture built on shared values. Your work will influence every part of the SEND system—from ensuring Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) processes are timely and person‑centred, to leading improvement activity, shaping local SEND strategy, strengthening multi‑agency partnerships and overseeing performance, quality and resources.
You’ll work closely with children, families, schools, senior leaders and partners to ensure their voices help drive inclusive practice and service design. The decisions you make will directly improve outcomes for children and young people across the county. This is a role for someone who thrives on challenge, collaboration and meaningful impact.
You will bring senior experience of managing SEND services or large‑scale provision, alongside a strong understanding of SEND legislation, statutory responsibilities and local authority operations. As a leader, you’re values‑driven, inspiring and confident in motivating teams through change. You think strategically, make sound decisions and have the communication and partnership skills needed to influence at every level—from families and schools to senior leaders and external organisations. Above all, you are committed to inclusion, continuous improvement and ensuring children and young people receive the support they need to reach their potential.
A workplace built on trust, balance and flexibility. Hybrid working, flexible hours, and a culture shaped around wellbeing. You’ll receive 26 days’ annual leave (rising to 32 with service), 10 bank holidays, and the opportunity to purchase up to 20 extra days. Plus a generous Local Government Pension Scheme, access to our Employee Assistance Programme and a broad range of staff discounts and salary‑sacrifice benefits.
From your first day, we invest in your professional growth. Expect a thorough induction, ongoing CPD, opportunities for formal qualifications and clear progression pathways across the organisation. Regular supervision, reflective practice and peer support are central to how we work.
We know people work best when they feel trusted and supported. We value flexibility, celebrate diversity and encourage staff to bring their strengths and ideas into a service that is continually improving and evolving.
Please use your application to show how you meet the criteria outlined in the Job Description and Person Specification. Attach a supporting statement and resume. We’re excited to welcome a leader who shares our ambition and commitment.
Closing Date: Sunday 29th March 2026. Interviews: TBC.
The post you are applying for is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013). If successful you will be required to apply to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) for a 'disclosure'. Further information can be found on the 'Our Recruitment Process' tab. You will be required to provide a car for use in connection with the duties of this post and must be insured for business use. However, we may consider you if you cannot drive because of a disability.
SEND Senior Manager | Inclusion Service | Full Time employer: Lancashire County Council
Contact Detail:
Lancashire County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Senior Manager | Inclusion Service | Full Time
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the SEND sector, attend local 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 services. Show us you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the challenges and opportunities in the field. We love candidates who come ready to discuss innovative ideas!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! Be ready to share specific examples of how you’ve made a difference in previous roles. We want to hear about your impact and how you can bring that same energy to our team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining our mission to support children and young people with SEND.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Senior Manager | Inclusion Service | Full Time
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for SEND: When writing your application, let your passion for supporting children and young people with SEND shine through. Share personal experiences or insights that demonstrate your commitment to inclusion and how you can make a real difference in their lives.
Tailor Your Supporting Statement: Make sure your supporting statement is tailored to the job description. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the role of SEND Senior Manager. We want to see how you can contribute to our improvement journey!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. This will help us understand your qualifications and motivations without getting lost in lengthy explanations.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team and being part of our mission to support families across Lancashire.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancashire County Council
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of SEND legislation and local authority operations. Being able to discuss specific policies and how they impact children and families will show that you're not just familiar with the role, but genuinely passionate about making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to talk about your leadership experiences and how you've motivated teams through change. Think of examples where you've successfully led initiatives or improved services, as this will demonstrate your ability to drive strategy and influence at all levels.
✨Engage with Real Scenarios
Be ready to discuss real-life scenarios or challenges you've faced in previous roles. This could include how you've handled multi-agency partnerships or ensured person-centred approaches in EHCP processes. It’s all about showing your problem-solving skills and commitment to inclusion.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about the future direction of the Inclusion Service or how they measure success in their initiatives. Asking questions shows your interest and helps you gauge if the role aligns with your values and goals.