At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and transform SEND services to improve education for children and young people.
- Company: Dudley Council, committed to making a difference in the community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to shape future education.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on service excellence and community welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives and drive positive change in education.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in SEND and a passion for inclusive education.
The predicted salary is between 76597 - 81370 € per year.
Location: Dudley, West Midlands
Salary: £76,597 – £81,370 (pay award pending)
Job Type: Full Time
Are you an inspirational, values‑driven professional with a passion for improving the life chances for children and young people? Dudley Council is embarking on a bold and ambitious transformation journey, and we are seeking an exceptional Principal Lead – SEND to play a vital role in shaping the future of education and inclusion across our borough.
In this pivotal position at the heart of our Children and Young People service, you will work with the Associate Director and colleagues to drive Dudley’s strategic approach to education inclusion and SEND, ensuring that every child and young person, whatever their needs or background, can access high‑quality education, support, and opportunity.
In this strategic leadership role, you will:
- Provide high quality strategic and operational leadership and management to Special Educational Need and Disabilities (SEND) services
- Lead and manage inclusive teams, fostering high performance and ensuring services are compliant, meet legal, statutory and governance requirements
- Translate strategic intent into effective and high‑quality operational delivery, either through direct delivery or through robust commissioning arrangements across Education, Health and Social Care and in partnership with relevant services
- Support the development and delivery of the Children’s Services Improvement Plan and the SEND Improvement Plan, embedding a culture of financial responsibility, a children and family focus and service excellence
Who we are looking for:
You will be a strategic, politically astute leader with a track record of delivering transformation in complex organisations; someone who inspires teams, builds strong partnerships, understands education/SEND legislation, and brings energy, integrity and ambition. If you are driven to make a real impact for children, families, and schools across Dudley, we want to hear from you.
The closing date for applications is Midnight, Sunday 7th June 2026. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults; therefore, the post is subject to medical clearance and an enhanced DBS check.
Principal Lead – SEND (Full Time) in Dudley employer: New Start
Dudley Council is an exceptional employer dedicated to transforming the lives of children and young people in the West Midlands. With a strong focus on values-driven leadership, we offer a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development and collaboration, ensuring our employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the community. Join us in shaping an inclusive educational landscape where every child has the opportunity to succeed.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Lead – SEND (Full Time) in Dudley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those involved with SEND. Attend local events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself – you never know who might have a lead on that perfect role!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Dudley Council’s current initiatives in SEND. Show us you’re not just passionate but also informed about the challenges and opportunities in the area. Tailor your responses to reflect how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. Focus on articulating your vision for SEND and how you can drive transformation. The more comfortable you are discussing your ideas, the more confident you’ll feel during the real deal.
✨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 take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Lead – SEND (Full Time) in Dudley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for improving the life chances of children and young people. Share personal experiences or insights that highlight your commitment to education and inclusion.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Principal Lead – SEND role. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate how your skills and experience align with what we're looking for.
Highlight Leadership Experience:We want to know about your strategic leadership skills! Share examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects, especially in complex organisations, to show us you can drive transformation effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:For a smooth application process, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at New Start
✨Know Your SEND Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the latest SEND legislation and policies. Understanding the legal framework will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to ensuring compliance and high-quality service delivery.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about specific situations where you inspired your team or drove transformation. Dudley Council is looking for someone who can foster high performance, so be ready to discuss your leadership style and achievements.
✨Understand Dudley's Vision
Research Dudley Council's strategic goals and their approach to education inclusion. Tailor your responses to align with their vision, showing that you're not just a fit for the role but also passionate about their mission to improve life chances for children and young people.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to translate strategic intent into operational delivery. Think through potential challenges in SEND services and how you would address them, demonstrating your strategic thinking and practical approach.
