Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage Specialist SEND Services and EHCP Statutory Assessment.
- Company: Cambridge City Council, committed to high-quality service delivery.
- Benefits: Competitive rate of £500 per day for impactful leadership role.
- Other info: Initial 3-month interim contract with potential for extension.
- Why this job: Make a difference in SEND services during a critical period.
- Qualifications: Significant senior leadership experience in SEND and statutory services.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Cambridge City Council is seeking an experienced Interim Head of Service to provide leadership cover across Specialist SEND Services and Alternative Provision/ EHCP Statutory Assessment Services. This is a hands-on operational leadership role and would suit an established SEND professional with recent local authority experience who is confident managing complex statutory services while supporting service improvement activity.
Location: Cambridge
Rate: £500 per day
Contract Length: Initial 3 months (interim)
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide interim cover for the Head of Service for Specialist SEND Services and AP / EHCP Statutory Assessment
- Manage workload pressures and balance operational delivery with service improvement priorities
- Provide professional supervision of District Managers, overseeing specialist teachers and practitioners supporting SEN Support and PEX prevention
- Provide professional supervision of Deputy SAT EHCP Managers
- Hold direct operational oversight of formal complaints, Local Government, Ombudsman cases and legal challenges relating to EHCPs and Section 19 duties
- Draft formal responses and provide legal instructions as required
About You:
- Significant senior leadership experience within SEND, AP, and EHCP statutory services
- Strong understanding of statutory responsibilities and local authority processes
- Confident managing complex operational pressures alongside improvement work
- Able to work at pace and provide stability during a critical period
If you are an experienced SEND leader available for an interim assignment and would like to contribute to maintaining high quality statutory services during this period, we would be keen to hear from you.
Head of Service - SEND in Cambridge employer: Opus People Solutions Ltd
Contact Detail:
Opus People Solutions Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Service - SEND in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the SEND sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of local authority processes and statutory responsibilities. We want you to feel confident discussing how you can manage operational pressures while driving service improvements.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed teams and handled complex situations in the past. This is your chance to shine and demonstrate your expertise in SEND services.
✨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, we’re always looking for passionate professionals like you to join our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Service - SEND in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in SEND and local authority processes. We want to see how your background aligns with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role is all about operational leadership, don’t forget to emphasise your senior leadership experience. Share specific examples of how you've managed complex services and improved operations in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key achievements and skills stand out without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you 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!
How to prepare for a job interview at Opus People Solutions Ltd
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and the relevant statutory responsibilities. Familiarise yourself with local authority processes and recent changes in legislation, as this will show that you're not just experienced but also current.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare to discuss your previous leadership experiences, especially in managing complex statutory services. Think of specific examples where you've successfully balanced operational delivery with service improvement, as this is key for the role.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to managing workload pressures or handling formal complaints. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making strategies, as this will demonstrate your ability to think on your feet.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the council's current challenges or future plans for SEND services. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the position aligns with your professional goals.