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- Tasks: Lead SEND education improvements and ensure positive outcomes for children with EHCPs.
- Company: London Borough of Waltham Forest, committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to equity and excellent service delivery.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education for children and young people in your community.
- Qualifications: Senior SEND leader with relevant qualifications and strategic commissioning experience.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to lead improvement and innovation across SEND education in Waltham Forest, ensuring that children and young people with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) achieve positive outcomes and access the right education at the right time. As Head of Service you will provide strategic and operational leadership across a complex and high‑profile portfolio—shaping borough-wide SEND strategy, driving inclusive practice, and strengthening quality assurance across specialist, independent and post‑16 provision.
Key responsibilities include:
- Lead meaningful change: shape strategy and deliver practical improvements for children and families.
- System leadership: influence partners across education, health and care and work with senior leaders and elected members.
- Commissioning and sufficiency: develop the local specialist estate and secure high‑quality, value‑for‑money provision.
- Quality and impact: strengthen assurance, safeguarding and outcomes‑focused monitoring across placements.
Qualifications and requirements:
- Senior SEND leader with degree level education, relevant professional qualification in SEND/education/commissioning or similar.
- Significant experience of strategic commissioning and service transformation, strong partnership working across education, health and care, and confident leadership of quality assurance and safeguarding.
- Working knowledge of SEND legislation and statutory duties, excellent communication skills (including with senior leaders and elected members), and a clear commitment to inclusive education and equity.
- (Desirable: NPQ or SEND‑specific leadership training.)
Terms and conditions:
- Satisfactory employment references and CIFAS identity checks.
- Satisfactory declaration of interest.
- This role is subject to safer recruitment practices as it involves work with children and/or vulnerable adults.
- Satisfactory DBS check.
- Fluent spoken English required.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Waltham Forest is a diverse borough where diversity is valued and integral to service delivery and employment. The Council is proud of its rich mix of communities and works to respond to the changing needs of its population. We use statutory duties on race, gender, disability equality and best practice in respect of age, faith and sexual orientation to ensure equality of opportunity. The Council is committed to meeting its 4 equality objectives: promoting equality of opportunity, opposing discrimination, reflecting workforce diversity and providing excellent services. Respecting diversity is a core Council value.
Head of Place Planning and Admissions in Walthamstow employer: LBWF
Contact Detail:
LBWF Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Place Planning and Admissions in Walthamstow
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those who work in SEND education. Attend local events or webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the organisation and its current initiatives. Familiarise yourself with Waltham Forest's SEND strategy and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. We want you to shine, so practice answering common interview questions related to leadership and strategic planning.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for inclusive education! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've driven meaningful change in previous roles. We believe that your commitment to improving outcomes for children and families will resonate with the hiring team.
✨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 on the lookout for candidates who are as excited about making a difference in SEND education as we are!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Place Planning and Admissions in Walthamstow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Head of Place Planning and Admissions. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see your leadership style! Share examples of how you've led teams or projects, especially in SEND education. Highlight any strategic changes you've implemented that made a real difference.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out. This will help us quickly see why you're a great fit!
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. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at LBWF
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of SEND legislation and statutory duties. 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 Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led strategic changes in previous roles. Think about times when you've influenced partners or worked with senior leaders to drive improvements. This is your chance to demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire others in a complex environment.
✨Understand the Local Context
Research Waltham Forest and its unique challenges regarding SEND education. Knowing the local landscape will help you tailor your responses and show that you're ready to hit the ground running. Mention any specific initiatives or partnerships that resonate with you.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing quality assurance and safeguarding. Remember, you'll be communicating with senior leaders and elected members, so being concise and confident will make a great impression. Consider doing mock interviews to refine your delivery.