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- Tasks: Lead and manage Specialist SEND Services and ensure high-quality service delivery.
- Company: Cambridge City Council, committed to improving local services.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate of £500 and opportunity to make a real difference.
- Other info: Initial 3-month contract with potential for impactful contributions.
- Why this job: Join a vital role in shaping SEND services during a critical period.
- Qualifications: Extensive leadership experience in SEND and strong understanding of local authority processes.
Location: Cambridge
Rate: £500 per day
Contract Length: Initial 3 months (interim)
About the Role
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.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide interim cover for the Head of Service for Specialist SEND Services and AP / EHCP Statutory Assessment
- Managing workload pressures and balancing 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 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
✨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 be able to showcase your expertise confidently when discussing how you can manage complex operational pressures.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a strong online presence! Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your recent experiences and skills in SEND services. This can help recruiters find you and see what you bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 4
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 us in making a difference in the SEND community.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Service
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in SEND services. We want to see how your background aligns with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role is all about leadership, don’t hold back on sharing examples of how you've successfully managed teams and improved services in your previous roles. We love seeing real-life examples!
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 experiences shine through without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
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 your expertise and confidence during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your senior leadership experience within SEND services. Think about specific situations where you've managed complex operational pressures or led service improvement initiatives. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the role effectively.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to managing workload pressures or overseeing complaints. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making strategies, as this will showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to maintain stability in challenging times.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the council's current challenges and priorities in SEND services. This not only shows your genuine interest in the role but also gives you a chance to demonstrate your understanding of the sector and how you can contribute to their goals.