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- Tasks: Lead the development of inclusive Post-16 SEND provision and drive system-wide change.
- Company: Leicester City Council, committed to creating an inclusive education system.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, permanent position, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on equity and positive outcomes for all students.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people with special educational needs.
- Qualifications: Experience in SEND legislation and Post-16 systems; QTS preferred.
The predicted salary is between 55825 - 60443 ÂŁ per year.
Leicester City Council is seeking a strategic and highly skilled leader to take on the role of SEND Inclusion Post‑16 Lead Officer. This post is open to candidates with relevant experience and will be advertised to applicants who either hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or have relevant post‑16 experience. Applicants with QTS will be required to work 32.5 hours per week, term time only. Applicants without QTS but with relevant experience will be required to work 37 hours per week, year‑round. Appointment in both cases will be on the same pay.
This is a pivotal role at the heart of our SEND system, leading the development of high‑quality, inclusive Post‑16 provision for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). It is central to delivering the ambitions set out in the Every Child Achieving and Thriving, which outlines a 10‑year vision for a more inclusive, consistent, and sustainable education system where every child can succeed.
You Will Help Shape a System That Delivers:
- Right support, in the right place, at the right time
- Stronger mainstream inclusion
- Improved outcomes and preparation for adulthood
- Financial sustainability and accountability
Context: SEND Reform 2026
The 2026 reforms represent a system‑wide shift in how SEND is delivered and funded, including:
- A move to a tiered model of support (universal, targeted, targeted‑plus, specialist)
- Reduced reliance on EHCPs, with greater focus on early intervention and mainstream capacity
- Introduction of more consistent national expectations and standards
- Stronger focus on outcomes, inclusion, and value for money
This role will be critical in translating these reforms into effective Post‑16 practice and commissioning.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the strategic development of inclusive Post‑16 SEND provision aligned to national reform priorities
- Embed a clear and consistent Ordinarily Available Offer (OAO) across all Post‑16 providers
- Ensure funding decisions reflect the tiered model of support, prioritising inclusion and early intervention
- Oversee and challenge Post‑16 SEND funding to ensure it is:
- Needs‑led
- Evidence‑based
- Outcome‑focused
About You You Will Bring:
- Strong knowledge of SEND legislation and Post‑16 systems
- A clear understanding of the 2026 SEND reform agenda and its implications for local systems
- Experience of leading system‑wide change and influencing across organisations
- Confidence in challenging funding decisions and ensuring value for money
- Deep understanding of inclusive practice and the graduated/tiered response
- Strong analytical and data interpretation skills
- Excellent communication skills, able to engage with:
- Young people and families
- Providers
- Senior leaders and elected members
Above all, you will demonstrate a values‑led approach, ensuring that inclusion, equity, and outcomes remain central to all decisions.
For an informal chat about this role please contact Shelley at Shelley.Piercy@leicester.gov.uk. Interviews / Assessments will take place on 18th and 19th of May.
Region: Central
Location: New Parks House
Salary: GBP 55,825 – GBP 60,443 Per Year
Contractual hours: 37
Basis: Full time, Full Time / 37 or 32.5 Hours Per Week / Permanent
SEND Inclusion Post 16 Lead in Leicester employer: Leicester City Council
Contact Detail:
Leicester City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Inclusion Post 16 Lead in Leicester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those who work with SEND. Attend events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues and share your passion for inclusive education.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest SEND reforms and how they impact Post-16 education. Show that you’re not just familiar with the role but also genuinely invested in making a difference in the lives of young people with SEND.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! You’ll need to engage with various stakeholders, so being able to articulate your ideas clearly is key. Consider mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence.
✨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 love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Inclusion Post 16 Lead in Leicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with SEND and Post-16 systems. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Knowledge: Demonstrate your understanding of the 2026 SEND reform agenda in your application. We’re looking for candidates who can articulate how these changes impact local systems and how you can contribute to that transformation.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read through your qualifications and experiences. Remember, clarity is key!
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 Leicester City Council
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of SEND legislation and the Post-16 systems. Familiarise yourself with the 2026 SEND reform agenda and be ready to discuss how it impacts local systems. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but that you understand the bigger picture.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led system-wide change or influenced across organisations in the past. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your capability to lead the strategic development of inclusive Post-16 SEND provision.
✨Data is Your Best Friend
Be ready to talk about your experience with data analysis and how you've used performance intelligence to drive improvement. Bring examples of how you've used data to inform commissioning decisions or improve outcomes for young people with SEND.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions to ask about the role and the team. This shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if the organisation aligns with your values around inclusion and equity.