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 daily rate of £500 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 130000 - 130000 € per year.
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.
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
- 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 - SEND in Peterborough employer: Opus People Solutions Ltd
Cambridge City Council is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where experienced professionals can make a significant impact on the lives of children with special educational needs. With a strong commitment to employee development and a collaborative culture, staff are supported in their roles while contributing to meaningful service improvements in the community. The location in Cambridge provides a vibrant setting, rich in history and innovation, making it an attractive place for professionals seeking rewarding employment in local government.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Service - SEND in Peterborough
✨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 not even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Brush up on your knowledge of local authority processes and statutory responsibilities. We recommend practising common interview questions related to SEND leadership to show you’re the right fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Follow relevant organisations and join groups focused on SEND services. Engaging with posts can help you get noticed by potential employers and keep you updated on industry trends.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a range of roles that could be perfect for you. Make sure to tailor your application to highlight your experience in managing complex statutory services and service improvement activities.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Service - SEND in Peterborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in SEND and local authority processes. We want to see how your background aligns with the key responsibilities of the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your leadership skills!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this interim role. We love seeing passion and clarity, so be sure to mention specific examples of how you've managed complex statutory services in the past.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:In your application, let us know how you approach leadership, especially in high-pressure situations. We’re looking for someone who can balance operational delivery with service improvement, so share any relevant experiences that demonstrate this ability.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come in through our platform!
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 SEND initiatives and challenges. 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.
