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- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams to transform SEND services for children and young people.
- Company: North Yorkshire Council, dedicated to inclusive practices and outstanding outcomes.
- Benefits: Generous annual leave, pension scheme, fitness discounts, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Join us to shape the future of SEND services and drive meaningful change.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with additional needs.
- Qualifications: Degree-level qualification and extensive knowledge of SEND legislation required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Be a part of shaping an inclusive future for children and young people in North Yorkshire. North Yorkshire Council is on an exciting journey to transform and strengthen our SEND services. We are committed to delivering outstanding outcomes for children and young people aged 0–25 with additional needs and we’re looking for an inspirational leader to join us. As our Lead for SEND Assessment (Quality, Performance and Practice), you will play a pivotal role in driving high‑quality practice, ensuring compliance with legislation, and embedding a culture of inclusion, collaboration and aspiration across the county. This is a role where your expertise, leadership and vision will have a direct impact on children, young people, their families and the professionals who support them.
About the role
- Champion quality, performance and person‑centred practice
- Lead and supervise local SEND assessment teams, ensuring high standards of performance, compliance and person‑centred practice.
- Oversee the statutory assessment process, quality of decision‑making and the development of robust, high‑quality EHCPs.
- Maintain effective systems for monitoring, auditing and continuous improvement aligned to service priorities.
Drive transformation and improvement
- Play a key role in reshaping SEND provision, supporting multi‑agency collaboration and delivering service transformation across localities.
- Lead on implementing learning from quality assurance activity, performance analysis and the development improvement plans.
- Support the implementation of innovative systems including the Digital EHCP across North Yorkshire.
Lead people, resources and strategic development
- Manage and develop a team of specialist professionals, ensuring effective supervision, wellbeing support and reflective practice.
- Oversee local SEND resources such as placements and budget deployment to ensure value for money and positive impact.
- Contribute to strategic planning, workforce development and the delivery of the Local Area SEND Strategy.
Build strong partnerships
- Work collaboratively with schools, settings, health, social care, parents/carers and young people to co‑produce developments.
- Support SENCo networks and support education settings to embed inclusive practice and early intervention.
- Represent the service at local, regional and national forums.
About you
- We’re looking for a committed, strategic and forward‑thinking leader with extensive knowledge of SEND legislation, statutory assessment processes and national developments.
- Significant experience in SEND practice, processes and partnership working.
- Strong leadership skills with experience of managing specialist teams and complex budgets.
- Excellent communication, influencing and relationship‑building skills.
- A track record of driving quality, performance and service transformation.
- The ability to work confidently across agencies, manage complex issues and deliver meaningful change.
- A degree‑level qualification is essential; additional SEND‑related or leadership qualifications are desirable.
Why Join us?
- Generous Annual Leave: 28 days of holiday (pro‑rata), increasing to 34 days after 5 years’ service – plus public holidays.
- Pension Scheme: Save for your future with our generous Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Fitness Discounts: Discounted Gym memberships at various gyms across the county.
- Lifestyle Savings: Enjoy a wide range of discounts at hundreds of popular high‑street and online retailers.
- And more: Additional wellbeing support, employee assistance and development opportunities.
This is a genuine opportunity to shape SEND services at a strategic level and ensure children and young people with additional needs receive the support, inclusion and opportunities they deserve. Ready to make a difference? If you’re passionate about SEND, motivated by challenge, and ready to lead transformational change, we’d love to hear from you.
If you would like more information about this role, please contact Chris Reynolds, Head of SEND and Resources, via email at Chris.Reynolds@northyorks.gov.uk. We look forward to exploring your interest and receiving your application.
Key dates: Closing Date: Sunday 10th May 2026
Lead for SEND in Northallerton employer: North Yorkshire Council
Contact Detail:
North Yorkshire Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead for SEND in Northallerton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the SEND field on LinkedIn or at local events. Building connections can lead to insider info about job openings and give you a leg up when applying.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in SEND legislation and practices. Show that you’re not just knowledgeable but also passionate about making a difference in children’s lives.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership pitch! Be ready to discuss your experience managing teams and driving transformation. Highlight specific examples where you’ve made a positive impact in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead for SEND in Northallerton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for in a Lead for SEND.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see your leadership style! Share examples of how you've managed teams and driven transformation in previous roles. This is your chance to shine a light on your ability to inspire and lead others.
Be Person-Centred: Since this role is all about championing person-centred practice, include specific instances where you've put individuals at the heart of your work. This will demonstrate your commitment to inclusion and collaboration.
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 to make a difference in SEND services.
How to prepare for a job interview at North Yorkshire Council
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of SEND legislation and statutory assessment processes. Being able to discuss recent developments and how they impact practice will show that you're not just familiar with the basics, but that you're also passionate about driving quality and performance in SEND services.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams and led transformations in previous roles. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you overcame them, especially in relation to multi-agency collaboration and embedding inclusive practices.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Partnerships
Since building strong partnerships is key for this role, come prepared with examples of how you've worked collaboratively with schools, health services, and families. Highlight any initiatives you've led that involved co-production and how they benefited children and young people.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions that demonstrate your strategic thinking. Inquire about the council's vision for SEND services in North Yorkshire and how they measure success. This shows your genuine interest in the role and your commitment to making a meaningful impact.